MARANGU ROUTE - 5 DAYS 4 NIGHTS
For normal physically fit person, is generally the most popular and common easier route. It is the only one with permanent Huts {as on other routes its mainly camping in Mountain tents}.
Marangu Gate {Alt. 1850m} - Mandara Hut {Alt. 2700m}

DAY 1: Arrive at Marangu Gate by private transfer from Arusha, introduction to your Guide/Porters. Thereafter Registration before starting your climbing {hiking/trekking} for approximately 3 to 4 hrs through the rain forest. Picnic lunch along the route to Mandara. On arrival leisure with hot refreshments etc. Late afternoon walk to the Maundi Crater for acclimatization - thereafter walking back for dinner and overnight at the Mandara Hut.

Mandara Hut {2700m} - Horombo Hut {Alt. 3700m}

DAY 2:After breakfast, start climbing through the Giant Savannah semi rainforest and Lobbelia's for approximately 4 to 5 hours with picnic lunch along the route to Horombo arriving late afternoon served with refreshments later evening walk along the Mawenzi Route to as far as you can manage for acclimatization purpose. Thereafter descend back to the Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight.

Horombo Hut {3700m} - Kibo Hut {4700m}

DAY 3:After breakfast, start climb with picnic lunch along the route through the semidesert areas, small glaciers, passing sunny and windy conditions for approximately 6 to 7hrs before arriving, almost exhausted at the Kibo Hut for dinner and overnight - up to approximately 12.00midnight. Thereafter you are woken up ready for your final preparation to ascend to the summit.

Kibo Hut {4700m} - Gilmans Point { 5600m} or to Uhuru Peak {5895m}.

DAY 4:Your final ascent start as early as 01.00hrs {1.00am} going Zig-Zag through the thick glaciers and sandy areas up to Gilman's Point for 6 to 7 hrs. If you wish to continue to the Uhuru Peak {the highest Peak in Africa} is another approx. 2 hrs away. After signing and short rest, you start descent slowly to Kibo Hut, for breakfast and rest for approx 1 hour then walk down to Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight.

DAY 5: After breakfast, final descent Via Mandara Hut for a hot lunch arriving the Kilimanjaro Park Gate {Marangu - gate} between 12.00noon - 13.00hrs. {at times you can arrive as late as 16.00 hrs. After saying goodbye to your Guide/Porters you then, transfers to Arusha.

NOTE: A 6 day climb is often booked for those wanting to acclimatize, this extra night is at Horombo Hut on the way up.Extra cost = USD 130 per person