Kilimanjaro - Marangu Trekking Route

MARANGU ROUTE ITINERARY

Day 1 - DEPARTURE

• If you book your flights with Sweet Adventures, you will fly from either Manchester or London, flights typically take 12-13 hours in total and will include at least one stop over.

DAY 2 - ARRIVE IN TANZANIA

• You will meet your Group Leaders at Kilimanjaro Airport JRO where we will then take you to the hotel. If you haven't booked flights and transfers with Sweet Adventures, we will see you in Moshi.

DAY 3 - FREE DAY TO EXPLORE

• You’ll have the chance to explore Moshi Town. Later in the day, before dinner, you’ll attend a briefing with your trek guides.

  
  

DAY 4 - MARANGU PARK GATE (1,970 m)

• After breakfast, we’ll load up our gear and drive to Marangu Park Gate where we will start our first day of trekking. Hopefully, we’ll spot some Colobus Monkeys on our way up! The walk usually takes about half a day. We’ll visit Maundi Crater, which boasts beautiful wildflowers and stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi. We will stay the night in the Mandara huts (2,720 m).

• Approximate time: 5 hours Distance covered: 8.3 km / 5.2 miles Ascent: 750 m Ascent

DAY 5 - TREK TO HOROMBO HUTS (3,720 m)

• We’ll begin the day trekking out of the forest, soon spotting Kifinika Hill on our left and catching intermittent views of Mawenzi and Kibo. We’ll pause for a picnic lunch at Kambi Ya Taabu. In the mid-afternoon, we’ll reach Horombo Huts, where we’ll relax for a while before having dinner together.

• Approximate time: 9 hours Distance covered: 12.5 km / 7.8 miles Ascent: 1,000 m

DAY 6 - ACCLIMATISATION

• On the third day, we take a break from climbing to help our bodies adjust to the altitude. One great option is a walk through the saddle area, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi. The trek to Zebra Rock is just the right amount of exercise to aid acclimatisation. By starting early, we ensure we have the afternoon free to relax and get our gear ready.

• Approximate time: 4 Hours Distance covered: 5 km / 3.1 miles Ascent: 300 m

DAY 7 - TREK TO KIBO (4,703 m)

• As you ascend through the moorland and alpine desert, you'll eventually reach "the saddle," a high point nestled between the twin peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. Before reaching Kibo, you'll pass the striking landmark of Jiwe la Ukoyo. From this point, it’s roughly an hour’s walk to Kibo Hut (4703m), where you’ll stop to rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

• Approximate time: 7 hours Distance covered: 9.5 km / 5.9 miles Ascent: 980 m

DAY 8 - SUMMIT KILIMANJARO (5,895 m)

• On the fifth day, the adventure intensifies. You’ll be awakened at midnight to begin a nocturnal trek. This timing allows us to aim for the summit and descend during daylight hours. Dress in layers to combat the cold, but be prepared to shed them as the day warms up. The initial part of the climb involves navigating a steep, winding, rocky path. We’ll proceed at a very slow, steady pace to conserve energy for the summit push. As we approach the crater rim, the sunrise will greet us. Take a moment to savor what many consider the most spectacular sunrise on the planet. From Gilman’s Point, it’s an additional 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Uhuru Peak at 5895 meters. The gradients here are gentler, and the terrain is more forgiving. Reaching the summit will make the effort of the past 10-12 hours feel incredibly rewarding. This day will likely be the longest and most memorable of your life. After celebrating at the summit, we’ll descend back to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

• Approximate time: 15 hours Distance covered: 22 km / 13.7 miles Ascent: 1,195 meters

DAY 9 - RETURN TO MARANGU PARK

• On the sixth and final day of your climb, you’ll descend from Horombo Huts back to the Marangu Park Gate. After completing this journey, a short drive will take you back to the hotel, where you can enjoy a much-deserved hot shower and a celebratory dinner.

• Approximate time: 8 hours Distance covered: 20.8 km / 12.9 mi

DAY 10 - FREE DAY TO RELAX AND EXPLORE

• After the exhilarating experience of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, take some time to unwind and explore the vibrant town of Moshi. Nestled at the base of the mountain, Moshi offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure. Wander through the bustling markets, where you can find unique souvenirs and sample local delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined streets, or visit one of the many coffee plantations to learn about the region’s famous coffee production. The town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its stunning views of Kilimanjaro, makes it the perfect place to reflect on your incredible journey and celebrate your achievement. Whether you’re relaxing in a cozy café or exploring the local culture, Moshi provides the ideal setting to unwind after your climb.

DAY 11 - FLY BACK TO THE UK

• After your incredible adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro and some well-deserved relaxation in Moshi, it’s time to head back to the UK. As you board your flight, you’ll have a chance to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views you’ve encountered. The journey home offers a perfect opportunity to sift through your photos, relive the highlights, and perhaps jot down some memories in a travel journal.

• As the plane ascends, you’ll leave behind the majestic peak of Kilimanjaro, carrying with you a sense of accomplishment and countless stories to share. The flight back to the UK will give you time to rest and recharge, preparing you to return to your daily routine with a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of adventure. Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by familiar sights and sounds, but with the added satisfaction of having conquered one of the world’s most iconic mountains. Welcome home!

WHATS INCLUDED IN THE BASE COST?

UK MOUNTAIN TRAINING DAYS

FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS

PAYMENT OPTIONS

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO?

HOW IS THE WEATHER IN OCTOBER?

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR THE TREK?

WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE ON THE TREK?

WHAT IS THE ACCOMODATION LIKE?

HOW DO I DEAL WITH ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

WHAT CURRENCY IS USED IN TANZANIA?

GUIDES AND PORTERS

TIPPING

WHERE IS MOUNT KILIMANJARO?