6 Days: Climb Marangu Route

• Hiking time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: About 8 km's.
• Habitat: Rain Foreset.
• Elevation change: + 860 m

We departed Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rainforest. At the upper edge of the forest line, we have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.

• Hiking time: 6-8 hours
• Distance: About 12 km's
• Habitat: Heath
• Elevation change: + 790 m, - 680 m

Final Elevation: 3950 m We start the day continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. We may get our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks – two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.

• Elevation (ft): 12,205ft to 14,400ft
• Distance: 5 km
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Habitat: Heath

This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut.

• Elevation (ft): 12,205ft to 14,400ft
• Distance: 10 km
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

• Hiking time: 6-8 hours.
• Distance: About 6 km's
• Habitat: Arctic/heath
• Elevation change: - 1120 m

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.