4 Days Group Mid-Range Kilimanjaro Climb via Marangu Route from Moshi in Tanzania (2026 - 2027)

Kilimanjaro Marangu gate (5,500 ft / 1,700 m) to Horombo Huts (12,100 ft / 3,700 m)

Stretch: 18 km

Hike time: 10-12 hours

Climatic Habitat: Montane Forest

Meals: L, D

Shelter: Horombo Huts

After breakfast, you’ll take a 45-minute drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, where you’ll complete registration before beginning your ascent. The trek starts through a lush rainforest, eventually reaching Mandara Huts. A brief side trip to Maundi Crater reveals breathtaking views across Northern Tanzania and Kenya. As the trail climbs beyond the forest, it transitions into open moorland en route to Horombo Huts, offering spectacular vistas of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Along the way, keep an eye out for distinctive vegetation like giant lobelias and groundsels.

Horombo Huts (12,100 ft / 3,700 m) to Kibo Huts (15,400 ft / 4,700 m)

Stretch: 10 km

Hike time: 6-8 hours

Climatic Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: B, L, D

Shelter: Kibo Huts

As we ascend the Marangu route, we leave the last water source behind and enter Kilimanjaro’s saddle, nestled between the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The trail starts through upper heathland but quickly transforms into a desolate, moon-like landscape. This is where you’ll pause to rest, have a meal, and prepare for the summit push ahead.

Kibo Huts (15,400 ft / 4,700 m to) to Summit (19,300 ft / 5,895 m) then Horombo Huts (12,100 ft / 3,700 m)

Stretch: 4 km up / 14 km down

Hike time: 10-15 hours

Climatic Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: B, L, D

Shelter: Horombo Huts

In the early morning hours, between midnight and 2:00 am, you start your final climb to the summit, navigating steep, loose scree to reach Gilman’s Point. From there, you continue onward to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. The stunning views along the way are truly unforgettable. Don’t forget to capture photos at the summit to share with loved ones. It will be very cold until you begin descending, so wearing all your warm layers is crucial. Move slowly (“pole pole”) and keep a positive mindset—this will help you conquer Mount Kilimanjaro’s toughest section, which includes many switchbacks. After summiting, you’ll descend to Kibo for a rest and lunch before heading down to Horombo Huts.

Horombo huts (12,100 ft / 3,700 m) to Marangu gate to Moshi (5,500 ft / 1,700 m)

Stretch: 18 km

Hike time: 5-7 hours

Climatic Habitat: Rain Forest

Today’s trek is long but mostly downhill. When you arrive at the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, you’ll be awarded a certificate to honor your accomplishment. Afterward, an Africa Natural Tours driver will be ready to take you back to your hotel in Moshi.

DepaRture Day