Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route 6 Days Safari

We depart Arusha for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. 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. Meal Plan: LD Budget Elevation: 6,046ft to 8,858ft Distance: 8km / 5miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Montane Forest

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. Meal Plan: Full Board Elevation: 8,858ft to 12,205ft Distance: 12km / 7.5miles Walking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Heathland

Today’s purpose is getting your body to acclimatize to the altitude. Acclimatization should not be underestimated as it greatly improves your chances of reaching the summit. After a relaxing breakfast, you will set off on a trek to Zebra Rocks. The distinctive black and white stripes give the rock formation its name. On your return to Horombo Hut, a cooked lunch will be waiting for you. You can relax in the afternoon and regain your strength for the hike the following day. Overnight and evening meal at Horombo Hut. Meal Plan: BD Elevation: 3450m/11,300ft to 3880m/12,700ft Distance: 9km / 5miles Walking Time: 2-3 hours Habitat: Semi-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. Meal Plan: Full Board Elevation: 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft Distance: 10km / 6miles Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert

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. Meal Plan: Fullboard Elevation: 15,430ft to 19,341ft Distance: 6km / 4miles Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Arctic Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut Elevation: 19,341ft to 12,250ft Distance: 16km / 10miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heath

On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha. Meal Plan: Breakfast Elevation: 12,205ft to 6,046ft Distance: 20km / 12miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Rain Forest Accommodation: Tulia Boutique Hotel and Spa

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport. *Safari, Zanzibar and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring.