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

Moshi – Mandara Huts

Destination: Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro National Park

Elevation: 5,500 ft / 1,700 m ? 9,000 ft / 2,740 m

Distance: 7 km – Time: 4–5 hours

Climatic Zone: Montane Forest

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Fly from Zanzibar (if applicable) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Meet your guide and transfer directly to Marangu Gate for registration. Begin trekking through lush Montane Forest, spotting tropical birds and Colobus monkeys. Optionally detour to Maundi Crater for panoramic views before arriving at Mandara Huts for rest and meals.

Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

Destination: Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro National Park

Elevation: 9,000 ft / 2,700 m ? 12,100 ft / 3,700 m

Distance: 11 km – Time: 6–8 hours

Climatic Zone: Heathland / Moorland

Leave the dense rainforest and trek uphill across open moorland. Enjoy stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, spotting giant lobelias and groundsels along the way. The gradual ascent helps with acclimatization. Arrive at Horombo Huts to relax, enjoy a warm meal, and rest for the next stage of the climb.

Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts

Destination: Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro National Park

Elevation: 12,100 ft / 3,700 m ? 15,400 ft / 4,700 m

Distance: 10 km – Time: 6–8 hours

Climatic Zone: Alpine Desert

Ascend toward the saddle, the plateau between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The terrain becomes rocky and barren like a moon surface. Pass the last water sources before reaching Kibo Huts. Rest and enjoy dinner while preparing for the midnight summit push.

Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak, then Descend to Horombo Huts

Elevation: 15,400 ft / 4,700 m ? 19,341 ft / 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) ? 12,100 ft / 3,700 m

Distance: 4 km up / 14 km down – Time: 10–15 hours

Climatic Zone: Alpine Desert

Start your summit attempt between midnight and 2 a.m., climbing scree to Gilman’s Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Capture summit photos, then descend to Kibo Huts for rest and lunch, continuing down to Horombo Huts. Dress warmly; the summit push occurs in cold, dark conditions with challenging switchbacks.

Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,100 ft / 3,700 m ? 5,500 ft / 1,700 m

Distance: 18 km – Time: 5–7 hours

Overnight: Panama Lodge or Kilimanjaro White House Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

Descend through moorland and rainforest toward Marangu Gate. Enjoy scenic views along the trail, then collect your summit certificate at the park gate. A vehicle will transfer you to your lodge or hotel in Moshi for a refreshing shower, relaxation, and celebration of your Kilimanjaro achievement.

Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,100 ft / 3,700 m ? 5,500 ft / 1,700 m

Distance: 18 km – Time: 5–7 hours

Overnight: Panama Lodge or Kilimanjaro White House Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

Descend through moorland and rainforest toward Marangu Gate. Enjoy scenic views along the trail, then collect your summit certificate at the park gate. A vehicle will transfer you to your lodge or hotel in Moshi for a refreshing shower, relaxation, and celebration of your Kilimanjaro achievement.