6 Days Group Mid-Range 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

Overnight: Mandara Huts

Transfer from Moshi to the Kilimanjaro Gate, where your Marangu Route odyssey begins. After a thorough briefing and registration, trek through the verdant Montane Forest, alive with tropical birdsong and black-and-white Colobus monkeys. Towering Eucalyptus trees shade the path. An optional detour to Maundi Crater unveils stunning vistas of northern Tanzania and Kenya. Relish gourmet lunch and dinner at Mandara Huts, resting comfortably for the climb 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

Overnight: Horombo Huts

Ascend from the rainforest into open moorland, where expansive views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks captivate. Unique giant lobelias and groundsels, adapted to high altitudes, dot the terrain. The thinning air signals acclimatization challenges, heightening the adventure. Savor three nourishing meals, fueling your ascent, and repose in the cozy Horombo Huts under a starlit sky, preparing for the next leg of your journey.

Horombo Huts Acclimatization Day

Destination: Horombo Huts

Elevation: 12,100 ft / 3,700 m

Distance: Variable (optional hike)

Time: 3-5 hours

Climatic Zone: Heathland/Moorland

Overnight: Horombo Huts

This acclimatization day at Horombo Huts enhances your summit success. Opt for a scenic hike to Zebra Rocks, a striking formation, to aid altitude adjustment. The round trip covers 5-6 km, offering panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi. Return to Horombo for a restful afternoon, enjoying gourmet meals and expert guidance. This strategic pause strengthens your resilience, ensuring you’re primed for the challenging 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

Overnight: Kibo Huts

Trek across Kilimanjaro’s arid saddle, a stark plateau between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, transitioning to a lunar-like alpine desert. Beyond the final water source, conserve energy for the summit push. After a fortifying 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 awaiting you.

Kibo Huts to Uhuru Summit then Horombo Huts

Destination: Uhuru peak

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

Overnight: Horombo Huts

Begin the 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 pinnacle, for breathtaking views. 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

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 summit certificates before a vehicle transfers you to a mid-range hotel in Moshi for a refreshing shower and relaxation. Tip your guides and porters for their invaluable support, reflecting on your triumphant ascent.

Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

After breakfast at your Moshi hotel, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey, with meals and accommodation as your responsibility. Reflect on conquering the world’s highest free-standing mountain, having traversed its unique ecosystems, leaving you with indelible memories of Tanzania’s natural splendor and your adventurous spirit.