6 Day Marangu Route Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking

After breakfast, depart Mandara Hut and leave the Kilimanjaro forests behind as you head towards Horombo Hut. Most of the day’s hike will take you through the Kilimanjaro moorland, a rocky landscape dotted with desert-like plants. Stop for a picnic lunch at Kambi ya Taabu before continuing your trek. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks along the way. Arrive at Horombo Hut around 1500hrs and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and acclimatizing to the higher altitude.

This additional day and night at Horombo Hut are ideal for acclimatization. The Zebra Rocks are a distinctive feature of the trek toward Mawenzi, which takes approximately three hours to ascend and 1.5 hours to descend. This hike is highly recommended. This journey facilitates the body's adaptation to the altitude and provides breathtaking vistas. Upon your return to Horombo Hut, you will be more adequately equipped to confront the forthcoming challenges.

Time Required for Hiking: 5-6 hours Elevation Change: +3018ft/+920 m Estimated Distance: 7.46 miles. Your ascent into the Alpine desert continues after breakfast, passing the final water point at 13550 ft/4130m. Unless you are prepared to purchase mineral water at Kibo hut, you will be required to refill your water bottles with the necessary amount of water until your return to Horombo hut in two nights. The final ascent will be made the same night, and the summit is now located 3921ft/1195m higher. Attempt to obtain the maximum amount of sleep and go to bed at approximately 19:30 p.m.

Around 2330hrs, you will wake up, have some tea and biscuits, and set off into the night. This is where the trek becomes truly challenging. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path leading to Hans Meyer Point (17,225 ft/5,250 m), a good spot for resting. The path then zigzags steeply up to Gillman’s Point (18,639 ft/5,681 m) on the crater rim, a section characterized by stone scree requiring significant physical and mental effort. From Gillman’s Point, you will likely encounter snow all the way to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft/5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. Weather conditions at the summit will determine how long you can spend taking photographs before starting the 3-hour descent back to Kibo Hut. After a short rest at Kibo Hut, gather all your gear and continue down to Horombo Hut (3 hours) for an overnight stay. Enjoy your last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep, filled with memories and stirring emotions.

The final descent to Marangu Gate on Kilimanjaro is a breathtaking voyage through the cloud forest. Successful climbers are awarded summit certificates, with silver certificates awarded for reaching Gillman's Point and gold certificates awarded for reaching Uhuru Peak. Meals are prepared by a cook and crew members, and accommodations are offered in cozy cabins with ample dining areas. Water is accessible at numerous locations; however, it is imperative that it be purified prior to consumption. Acclimatization is essential for a secure ascent; however, altitude may lead to odd behaviors and lightheadedness. It is crucial to monitor one's health and make secure decisions while ascending.