Marangu Route

Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, proceed through customs, collect your luggage, and exit past the security area. Our friendly kilisherpas driver will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name. They will assist with your luggage and guide you to our comfortable, air-conditioned transfer van, where you’ll find cold water to help you refresh. We offer flexible pick-up times, day or night, at no extra charge. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the reassurance that you’re now in the capable hands of kilisherpas Travel.

Your climbing guide and support team will meet you at the hotel for a quick briefing before driving to Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,462 ft), the starting point of your Kilimanjaro climb. After registering and securing permits, you’ll begin your hike through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,720 m / 8,922 ft). Lunch will be served upon arrival, and you'll be assigned your overnight hut. Important Tips: Bring a rain jacket — the rainforest has a high chance of rain. This is your first day at altitude. Stay hydrated (over 4L/day) and consider altitude medication (consult your doctor in advance). Symptoms like headaches or nausea are common; inform your guide if you feel unwell.

After an early breakfast, your group will begin a moderate trek toward Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,204 ft). Upon arrival, you'll enjoy incredible views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. In the afternoon, you’ll take an acclimatization hike toward Kibo Hut, gaining 200 m / 656 ft in altitude, then return to Horombo for dinner. Please Note: This acclimatization hike is gentle but essential. It significantly improves your adaptation to the altitude and increases your chances of a successful summit. Take it seriously to help prevent altitude sickness.

After breakfast, you’ll take a short acclimatization hike toward Kibo Hut, then return to Horombo Hut for lunch. The afternoon is free for rest, photography around Mawenzi Volcano, or a short walk in the area. To support proper acclimatization, you’ll spend a second night at the same altitude at Horombo Hut.

After breakfast, the trek continues to Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 ft). The trail is not technically challenging, but maintaining a steady pace is key to conserving energy for the summit push. Upon arrival, lunch will be served. Spend the rest of the day resting, staying hydrated, and avoiding physical exertion to prepare for the overnight ascent.

Your summit attempt begins at night from Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 ft), heading toward Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft), the highest point in Africa. While the trail isn’t technically difficult, the high altitude makes this the most physically demanding part of the climb. For safety and support, climbers are paired two per guide, ensuring close monitoring and motivation during the ascent. After reaching the summit, you may descend briefly to the nearby glacier (optional), then return to Kibo Hut for a short rest. You’ll then continue the descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,202 ft) for overnight. Please Note: Most mountain accidents occur during descent. Take each step carefully to avoid injury.

After a warm breakfast, you’ll begin your final descent to Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,462 ft), marking the official end of your Kilimanjaro trek. At the gate, your group will gather for a short celebration and a chance to share feedback in the guestbook. You’ll receive your summit certificates, then be transferred back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. If you’d like to continue your adventure with a wildlife safari, we’d be happy to help you plan and book the perfect experience with Kilisherpas Travel.