Marangu Route · 6 Days

The Marangu route is the oldest and most established path on Kilimanjaro, and the only route that offers hut accommodation instead of camping — ideal if you want a classic experience without sleeping in tents.

It approaches from the south-east and uses the same path for ascent and descent. While often considered the gentlest gradient, proper acclimatization is still essential, which is why our itinerary includes an extra day at Horombo.

Best for: Climbers who prefer beds in huts over tents

1. 1
   

   Day 1

   Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

   1,860m → 2,720m 4–5 hours

   Begin at Marangu Gate and walk through lush rainforest with moss-draped trees, waterfalls and blue monkeys to the A-frame huts of Mandara.

2. 2
   

   Day 2

   Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

   2,720m → 3,720m 6–7 hours

   Emerge from the forest onto open moorland dotted with giant groundsels and lobelias, with your first sweeping views of Kibo and Mawenzi.

3. 3
   

   Day 3

   Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

   3,720m → 4,000m → 3,720m 3–4 hours

   A vital rest-and-adjust day. Hike up to Zebra Rocks or towards Mawenzi Hut for altitude, then return to Horombo to sleep lower.

4. 4
   

   Day 4

   Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

   3,720m → 4,720m 6–7 hours

   Cross the lunar landscape of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Hut, your base for the summit. Early dinner and rest.

5. 5
   

   Day 5

   Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Horombo Hut

   4,720m → 5,895m → 3,720m 12–14 hours

   A midnight start up switchbacks to Gilman's Point on the crater rim, then along the rim to Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Descend all the way back to Horombo.

6. 6
   

   Day 6

   Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

   3,720m → 1,860m 5–6 hours

   Descend through moorland and forest to Marangu Gate for your certificate ceremony, then transfer back to Moshi.

Route map

Marangu Route map