Day 1 – Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Begin at Marangu Gate (1,860m) with registration and a briefing. The trail winds through lush rainforest, filled with monkeys, birds, and abundant greenery. Hikers will enjoy clear streams, waterfalls, and the sounds of the forest while gaining altitude gradually. After 4–5 hours, you’ll reach Mandara Hut (2,700m), nestled among trees at the forest’s edge. Dinner is served in the communal hut dining area, offering warm meals and a chance to meet fellow trekkers. Evening is spent preparing gear, hydrating, and resting in a comfortable bed, providing a gentle start for the days ahead.

Day 2 – Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

After breakfast, leave the rainforest behind and ascend through the heath and moorland zones. You’ll pass giant lobelias, aloe plants, and dramatic volcanic rock formations. The hike takes 5–6 hours, gradually gaining elevation to Horombo Hut (3,720m). Along the way, enjoy expansive views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. At camp, take a short acclimatisation hike, hydrate, and relax. Dinner is served, followed by a briefing for the next day. The extra time at Horombo is crucial for adjusting to altitude, improving your chances for a successful summit while allowing you to enjoy the dramatic scenery.

Day 3 – Horombo Hut Acclimatisation Day

Today is a crucial acclimatisation day. Hike higher toward the Zebra Rocks or Mawenzi ridges, then return to Horombo Hut for rest. The trek lasts 3–5 hours, allowing your body to adapt to thinner air. This is an ideal opportunity to take photographs of the stark alpine landscape, spot wildlife like rock hyraxes, and admire the spectacular vistas of the surrounding valleys. Return to camp for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing, hydrating, and preparing gear for the final ascent. Dinner and an early bedtime help ensure you are ready for the long summit night ahead.

Day 4 – Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Begin a 5–6 hour trek across the alpine desert to Kibo Hut (4,700m), your final camp before the summit attempt. The trail is barren, rocky, and dramatic, with minimal vegetation but panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi. Lunch is served en route, and upon arrival, take time to rest, hydrate, and organise gear for the midnight climb. Guides provide a detailed briefing for the summit push. Dinner is early, followed by rest in your hut. This camp is essential for acclimatisation and mental preparation, setting the stage for a successful ascent to Africa’s highest point.

Day 5 – Summit Day (Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Horombo Hut)

Wake at midnight for the final ascent under the stars. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,739m) is steep and demanding but rewarded with spectacular views of the crater rim. Push onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa, as the sun rises over Kilimanjaro. After celebration photos and a moment of reflection, descend carefully to Kibo Hut for rest and breakfast, then continue down to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for a well-deserved dinner. The summit day is physically and mentally challenging but offers unforgettable achievement and awe-inspiring scenery.

Day 6 – Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Begin your final descent through moorland and rainforest zones. Enjoy the lush vegetation, waterfalls, and wildlife along the trail. The descent takes 4–5 hours, arriving at Marangu Gate (1,860m) where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificate. Celebrate your accomplishment with photos and reflection on the journey. Your driver transfers you to your hotel for a hot shower and a well-earned meal. This marks the end of an unforgettable 6-day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro climb, combining comfort, scenery, and achievement on Africa’s highest mountain.