8 Days Group Budget Marangu Route Climbing Mt Kilimanjaro

Elevation: 2,932 ft (894 m) 

Distance: 40 km (25 miles) 

Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour 

Arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your journey through the charming Tanzanian countryside toward the welcoming Kilimanjaro White House Hotel. As the road stretches through vibrant towns and open plains, the towering silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro rises in the distance, hinting at the adventure ahead. Upon arrival, check in and take a moment to unwind before enjoying a delicious traditional Tanzanian dinner. Savor the rich flavors of local cuisine, from tender Nyama Choma to comforting Ugali, as you immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the region. After dinner, relax and prepare for the trek, knowing that tomorrow marks the beginning of an unforgettable climb.

Elevation: 2,960 ft (902 m) to 9,000 ft (2,743 m) 

Distance: ~8 km (5 miles) 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you'll be driven to Marangu Gate to begin your climb, where you'll register and meet your guides. The trek starts with a 4-5 hour moderate hike through lush forests, with opportunities to spot blue monkeys and exotic birds along the way. You'll enjoy a packed lunch amidst the peaceful Kilimanjaro foothills before arriving at Mandara Huts, where you'll settle in, warm up with a hot drink, and enjoy a filling dinner. The evening is spent resting in the hut, preparing for the next stage of the ascent.

Elevation: 9,000 ft (2,743 m) to 12,200 ft (3,720 m) 

Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles) 

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours 

After a breakfast at Mandara Huts, you'll set off into alpine meadows, leaving the dense forest behind as you ascend into the moorland. The landscape transforms with giant lobelias and towering senecios, offering breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro's peaks. You’ll stop for a lunch break, staying hydrated to adjust to the altitude. By the time you reach Horombo Huts, you’ll be ready to rest and enjoy a nourishing dinner. As the sun sets, you’ll settle in for a restful night, preparing for the next stage of your climb.

Elevation: 12,200 ft (3,720 m) to 14,200 ft (4,333 m) 

Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles) round trip 

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours 

After an early breakfast at Horombo Huts, you'll embark on a challenging round-trip hike towards Mawenzi Huts, navigating steep and rocky terrain. The rugged landscape is demanding, but the stunning views of Mawenzi Peak make the effort worthwhile. Along the way, you’ll have a packed lunch to refuel. After completing the trek, you’ll return to Horombo Huts for a well-deserved dinner and rest, preparing for the next phase of your journey.

Elevation: 12,200 ft (3,720 m) to 15,430 ft (4,700 m) 

Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles) 

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours 

After a solid breakfast at Horombo Huts, you'll begin your ascent towards Kibo Huts, navigating barren, rocky terrain as the landscape becomes more desert-like. The thinning air makes each step more challenging, so frequent breaks and hydration are essential. You’ll pause for lunch, taking in the dramatic surroundings while acclimating to the altitude. Upon reaching Kibo Huts, you’ll find a harsh, windswept environment, where you'll rest, hydrate, and enjoy a hearty dinner, preparing your body for the final summit push tomorrow.

Elevation: 15,430 ft (4,700 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) and down to 12,200 ft (3,720 m) 

Distance: ~21 km (13 miles) 

Hiking Time: 10-14 hours 

You’ll wake up around midnight or 1 AM for the final push to Uhuru Peak, with a light breakfast to fuel your climb and plenty of water to stay hydrated at high altitude. The ascent is long, strenuous, and icy, but the reward at the summit is unmatched. After celebrating, you’ll begin your descent, with lunch and water provided along the way. As the oxygen levels improve, the descent becomes easier. By the time you reach Horombo Huts, a warm dinner awaits, allowing you to rest, recover, and adjust to the lower altitude.

Elevation: 12,200 ft (3,720 m) to 6,046 ft (1,850 m) 

Distance: ~20 km (12.5 miles) 

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours 

After a hearty breakfast at Horombo Huts, you’ll begin your descent, making your way through lush rainforest and moorland as the air grows fresher and the landscape turns vibrant green. You’ll take a well-earned lunch break before continuing the trek, with the final leg offering a warm welcome of cheers and congratulations from fellow trekkers at Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, celebrate your successful climb with a final meal, reflecting on the incredible experience before your journey back in Moshi.

Elevation: 6,046 ft (1,850 m) to 3,939 ft (1,195 m) 

Distance: ~50 km (31 miles) 

Hiking Time: 1.5-2 hours 

After a final breakfast at Marangu Gate, you’ll board transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). As the road winds through rural villages and farmland, with Mount Kilimanjaro towering in the distance, you’ll have one last chance to reflect on your incredible achievement before reaching the airport.