Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route: The gradual ascent with refuge stays
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationTanzania / Kilimanjaro
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AgeFrom 12 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions68.12 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
English
German
Spanish
In a few words
Ascend to the roof of Africa by taking the legendary Marangu route , the most iconic trek on Kilimanjaro . An exceptional trek that transports you through an incredible diversity of landscapes: from lush rainforest to moorland areas, to the wild scenery of the alpine desert bordering the eternal ice of Uhuru Peak .
The Marangu route is the only one to offer accommodation in permanent mountain huts rather than tents, providing comfortable dormitory -style nights, perfect for protection against the cold and inclement weather, especially during the rainy season . Doable in 5 or 6 days , the 6-day option guarantees optimal acclimatization to the altitude, maximizing your chances of reaching the summit in the best possible conditions. Following the historic route of the first ascent in 1889, this legendary route is the ideal choice for a direct climb combining safety, comfortable shelter, and adventure in the heart of Kilimanjaro National Park .
The highlights
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The roof of Africa as a refuge
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Hike through rainforest, moorland and alpine desert to Uhuru Peak
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A gradual 5-day ascent with experienced guides and full support
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
The Marangu route offers scenic views of the southern slopes of Kilimanjaro. However, the fact that it uses the same path for ascent and descent limits the variety of scenes and makes the trail fairly crowded. While the 5-day itinerary might sound tempting, it is much more challenging due to harsh acclimatization. So, beginners should consider the 6-day variation or any 7+ day itinerary on other routes.
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 8h30
- Average distance/day: 11 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 470 m
- Average daily descent: 120 m
Management
French
English
German
Spanish
Our guides are certified Kilimanjaro professionals, each with over 7 years of high-altitude mountaineering experience. Trained in wilderness first responders, they ensure the safety, comfort, and personalized support of participants throughout the climb. They also share their expertise on the mountain, its wildlife, flora, and Tanzanian culture, making the experience both safe and enriching.
Program
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Arrival in Tanzania and preparation for the trek
- Transportation Minibus - 11h - 45km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet a Jema Safaris representative, and transfer to the hotel under the rate. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening there will be a briefing with our managers, who will also make sure you are ready to begin the climb.
Private tour packages include shared airport transfers for your group. Extra charges will apply for additional individual transfers. To avoid extra costs, sync your group's arrival and departure times.
PLEASE NOTE: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Day 1 -
Trekking from Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 199 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
In the morning, your guide and support crew will meet you at the hotel for a briefing before transferring to Kilimanjaro National Park's Marangu Gate (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) . After completing permit formalities and registering with the search and rescue service, the trek begins through lush rainforest en route to Mandara Hut (2,720 m / 8,922 ft) . Expect possible tropical showers—bring rain gear and spare clothes.
Mandara Hut offers dormitory-style accommodations, a comfortable alternative to camping tents. Lunch will be prepared by the support crew upon arrival.
Altitude tips: Drink at least 4 liters of water daily, consider preventive high-altitude medicine, and monitor your body for signs of altitude sickness such as headaches or nausea. Report any symptoms immediately to your guide.
Trekking distance: 11 km (6.8 miles) | Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 2 -
Trekking from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 600 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The group will wake early for a filling breakfast, and then depart Mandara Hut. This trek heads to the second high altitude camp: Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,202 f). When you reach the camp on this day, you will be treated to views of two volcanoes at once: Kibo and Mawenzi.
Several hours after lunch you will have to complete an acclimatization hike in the direction of Kibo Hut with a 200 m /656 f gain in altitude, and then hike back down to Horombo Hut where dinner will be prepared for you.
PLEASE NOTE: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness.
Acclimatization hike:
Change in Elevation:Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,204 ft)
Destination point en route to Kibo Hut (3,920 m / 12,861 ft)
Hiking distance:2.5 km (1.5 miles)
Hiking time:1-2 hours
Trekking time:6 hours
Distance:11 km (6.8 miles)
Day 3 -
Trekking from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 297 m
- Negative elevation 100 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
On this day, right after breakfast, the group will be trekking to the Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 f). The actual trekking is not very difficult, just remember to stick with an appropriate pace to preserve your strength for the climbing to Kilimanjaro's summit. When you reach the camp you will be served lunch, after which we recommend you sleep as much as you can, avoid any strenuous activity, and drink lots of water.
Trekking time:4-8 hours
Distance:10 km (6.2 miles)
Day 4 -
Trekking to Uhuru Peak and descent to Horombo Hut
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 16h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 98 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your group will depart at night from Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 f) and begin the trek to Kilimanjaro's summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 f). The trekking will be moderate from a technical perspective, but the altitude presents a challenge, making even regular physical activity feel strenuous. For the entire length of the summit trek, each pair of climbers will be accompanied by their own guide, who will be monitoring the pair's stamina and mental resolve. After your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak, you can descend to the nearest glacier if desired. Then you will return to Kibo Camp and enjoy a two-hour rest before continuing your descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,202 f).
PLEASE NOTE: Don't forget that 90% of all accidents occur during the descent, including most broken arms and legs. Please pay attention to your feet, as there is a high risk of damaging your toenails.
Trekking time:9-12 hours
Distance:16 km (9.9 miles)
Day 5 -
Descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 11 km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
You will be offered a warm breakfast in the morning, after which we will head for the Kilimanjaro National Park's exit: Marangu Gate (1,970 m /6,462 f). After your descent, the whole group will gather to congratulate you, and then you will have the chance to share your opinions on the trip in the guestbook. Finally, we will present you with your commemorative certificates and provide you with a transfer back to the hotel.
Trekking time:5-6 hours
Distance:18 km (11.1 miles)
Day 6 -
End of the adventure and transfer to the airport
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After a final peaceful awakening at your hotel in Arusha, you'll enjoy a leisurely breakfast before concluding your Kilimanjaro adventure. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will arrange your private transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
These final moments offer a chance to reflect on the highlights of the trek, share your impressions with your fellow travelers, and take some souvenir photos. Your guide will then lead you to the check-in desk for a safe and stress-free departure.
This final stage marks the end of an exceptional adventure, etched in your memories, with the pride of having reached the roof of Africa.
Day 7
Note
This itinerary follows the classic Marangu Route on Mount Kilimanjaro, designed for gradual acclimatization and a comfortable trekking experience. Each day's schedule may be adjusted depending on weather conditions or the pace of the group. Accommodation is in mountain huts along the route, offering shelter and basic facilities. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner on trekking days, and breakfast at hotels. Climbers should follow all guidance from guides regarding altitude sickness, hydration, and pacing. Early starts are required for summit day to maximize safety and success. Trekking times are approximate and may vary depending on fitness level, weather, and group progress. All transfers and support services are included to ensure a smooth journey from Arusha to Kilimanjaro National Park and back.
Accommodation
The Greenside Hotel Arusha is a warm and welcoming 3-star hotel ideally located in the heart of Arusha, perfect for travelers preparing for a safari or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. The hotel combines comfort and a friendly atmosphere, offering modern amenities and easy access to restaurants, local attractions, and transportation. Guests can relax in the garden, enjoy attentive service, and take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the property, making it an excellent base for rest and preparation before embarking on an adventure.
Mandara Hut is a well-equipped mountain hut located on the Marangu Route of Mount Kilimanjaro. Nestled at an altitude of approximately 2,700 meters, it serves as the first overnight stop for trekkers ascending the mountain. The hut offers simple but comfortable dormitory-style accommodation, providing shelter from the elements while allowing trekkers to rest and acclimatize before continuing their journey.
The Horombo Hut is a high-altitude bivouac located on the Marangu Route of Mount Kilimanjaro, at approximately 3,720 meters. It serves as a key acclimatization stop before trekkers continue their ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro. The hut offers dormitory-style accommodation with basic bedding, providing shelter, warmth, and comfort in a remote alpine environment. Staying here allows trekkers to rest and acclimatize properly, increasing their chances of successfully reaching the summit.
Kibo Hut is the highest bivouac on the Marangu Route of Mount Kilimanjaro, situated at approximately 4,700 meters above sea level. It serves as the final stop before the final push to Uhuru Peak . The hut offers basic dormitory-style accommodation with essential bedding, providing shelter and warmth in an extreme alpine environment. Staying at Kibo Hut allows trekkers to rest, prepare, and acclimatize for the challenging summit climb, making it a crucial part of the Kilimanjaro climbing experience.
Access
Go to the starting point
Airport transfers included depending on the option chosen.
For early arrivals or late departures, a private transfer can be arranged for added comfort and convenience.
Price details
The price includes
- Guided by certified professional guides, with over 7 years of experience on Kilimanjaro.
- Full logistical support: porters, cooks and assistant guides.
- Accommodation in mountain camps throughout the trek, with spacious tents and sleeping bags adapted to the altitude.
- Full meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout the trek.
- Private transfers between the airport, the departure point and the hotel.
- Permits and entry fees to Kilimanjaro National Park.
- Certificate of ascent awarded at the end of the trek.
- Emergency assistance provided by guides trained in wilderness first aid (Wilderness First Responder).
The price does not include
- International flights to and from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO).
- Additional drinks and personal purchases.
- Tips for guides, porters and cooks.
- Specific personal equipment not listed in the equipment sheet.
- Mandatory NIC Inbound Travel Insurance: USD 44 (approx. €39) per adult
Options
- Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti - 4 Days : CHF2’410.50 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- High-altitude tents (spacious, wind and rain resistant)
- Floor mattress (for optimal comfort)
- Balanced meals prepared by the kitchen team
- Full logistical support: porters, experienced guides and medical/first aid assistance
Equipment to bring
- Hiking poles
- Daypack (20–30 L) for water, snacks and personal belongings
- Headlamp with spare batteries (for night climbs)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with UV protection
- Water bottles or hydration system (3–4 liters per day)
- Sleeping bag (suitable for sub-zero temperatures)
- Camera (to capture the scenery)
Clothing to bring
- Thermal underwear (top and bottom for cold nights at altitude)
- Long and short-sleeved T-shirts (breathable, quick-drying)
- Fleece or wool jacket (for evenings and hikes at medium altitude)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (essential in tropical rainforests and at high altitudes)
- Trekking trousers (lightweight, durable, comfortable)
- Shorts (for warmer stages at lower altitudes)
- Hat or cap (sun protection)
- Warm, lightweight gloves (for cold nights at the summit)
- Trekking socks (several pairs, including thermal ones)
- Trekking shoes (high-top, waterproof, already broken in before the trip)
- Sandals or light shoes (for the camp and after hikes)
