Our 5-Day Marangu Route is the shortest and most direct path to the summit of Kilimanjaro. This route is the only one with hut accommodations, offering a more comfortable climb. While it has a lower success rate due to less acclimatization time, it remains a popular option for those with limited time.
We depart from Arusha and drive 3-4 hours to Marangu Gate (6,046ft / 1,843m). After registration, we begin our trek through the lush rainforest, reaching Mandara Hut (8,858ft / 2,700m).
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours
- Overnight at Mandara Hut
We leave the rainforest behind and enter the Moorland Zone, hiking towards Horombo Hut (12,205ft / 3,720m).
- Trekking time: 6-7 hours
- Overnight at Horombo Hut
The landscape becomes barren as we continue to Kibo Hut (15,430ft / 4,703m), our final stop before the summit attempt. We rest early to prepare for the midnight climb.
- Trekking time: 5-6 hours
- Overnight at Kibo Hut
We begin our ascent at midnight, reaching Gilman’s Point (18,652ft / 5,685m) before summiting Uhuru Peak (19,341ft / 5,895m). After celebrating, we descend to Horombo Hut.
- Summit ascent: 7-8 hours
- Descent to Horombo Hut: 6-8 hours
- Overnight at Horombo Hut
We complete our descent to Marangu Gate, where we sign the register and receive our certificate of completion.
- Descent time: 5-6 hours
- Return drive to Arusha (~3 hours)
- Mid-afternoon arrival at the hotel
Congratulations! You’ve conquered Kilimanjaro’s 5-Day Marangu Route. 🎉
