5 Days Group Budget Kilimanjaro Climb via Marangu Route from Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania (2026 - 2027)

Moshi to Mandara Huts

Destination: Mandara Huts

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

Distance: 7 km

Time: 4-5 hours

Climatic Zone: Montane Forest

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Mandara Huts

From Moshi, transfer to the Kilimanjaro Gate, the portal to your Marangu Route odyssey. After a concise briefing and registration, traverse the verdant Montane Forest, resonant with tropical birdsong and sightings of charismatic black-and-white Colobus monkeys. Towering Eucalyptus trees provides a shaded canopy. An optional detour to Maundi Crater unveils panoramic vistas of northern Tanzania and Kenya. Relish hearty lunch and dinner at Mandara Huts, resting for the ascent ahead.

Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts

Destination: Kibo Huts

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

Distance: 10 km

Time: 6-8 hours

Climatic Zone: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Kibo Huts

Trek across Kilimanjaro’s arid saddle, a stark expanse between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, transitioning to a desolate, lunar-like alpine desert. Beyond the final water source, conserve energy for the summit push. After a nourishing dinner, rest deeply in Kibo Huts, mentally and physically preparing for the pre-dawn ascent. Expert guides ensure your safety, bolstering confidence for the formidable challenge ahead.

Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

Destination: Horombo Huts

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

Distance: 11 km

Time: 6-8 hours

Climatic Zone: Heathland/Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Horombo Huts

Ascend from the lush rainforest into expansive moorland, where striking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks captivate. Unique giant lobelias and groundsels, adapted to high altitudes, punctuate the terrain. As the air thins, subtle acclimatization effects may emerge, intensifying the adventure. Enjoy three wholesome meals, fueling your journey, and repose in the functional Horombo Huts under the vast, starlit sky.

Kibo Huts to Uhuru Summit then Horombo Huts

Destination: Horombo Huts

Elevation: 15,400 ft / 4,700 m to 19,300 ft / 5,895 m to 12,100 ft / 3,700 m

Distance: 4 km up / 14 km down

Time: 10-15 hours

Climatic Zone: Alpine Desert to Arctic Zone

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Horombo Huts

Begin your summit ascent between midnight and 2 a.m., navigating steep scree or snow by headlamp. Reach Gilman’s Point at dawn, then persevere to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s zenith, for awe-inspiring vistas. Capture a summit photo before descending to Kibo Huts for lunch and a brief rest, then proceed to Horombo Huts. The frigid, oxygen-scarce climb demands warm layers and mental fortitude, guided by a steady “pole pole” pace.

Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate – Moshi

Destination: Moshi

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

Distance: 18 km

Time: 5-7 hours

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Descend through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Muddy lower trails suggest gaiters and trekking poles. Light attire suits the climate, but keep rain gear handy. At the gate, celebrate with achievement certificates before a vehicle transfers you to Moshi. Tip your guides and porters for their invaluable support. Reflect on your triumph at the hotel, ready for your departure the next day.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast in Moshi, arrange your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey to Dar es Salaam or beyond, with meals and accommodation as your responsibility. Reflect on conquering the world’s highest free-standing mountain, carrying memories of Tanzania’s natural splendor.