Day 0: Pre-trek Briefing

On this day, you will have a pre-trek briefing where you will meet your guide and fellow climbers. The briefing will provide important information about the climb, safety precautions, and the Marangu Route in particular. You will also have an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. After the briefing, you will spend the night at a hotel in Arusha or Moshi, Tanzania, in preparation for the climb.

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Your trek begins as you leave the hotel and head towards the Marangu Gate, which is the starting point of the Marangu Route. After completing the necessary registration and formalities at the gate, you will begin your hike through the lush rainforest. The trail gradually ascends, and after approximately 3-4 hours of walking, you will reach Mandara Hut, located at an altitude of about 2,700 meters (8,860 feet). This will be your accommodation for the night.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

After breakfast, you will continue your trek. The trail now takes you out of the rainforest and into the heather and moorland zone. The landscape becomes more rugged and the vegetation changes as you gain altitude. You will hike for about 5-6 hours, passing through stunning scenery and enjoying panoramic views along the way. Eventually, you will reach Horombo Hut, situated at an elevation of approximately 3,720 meters (12,200 feet). This will be your overnight stay.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Today's hike will take you to Kibo Hut, located at an altitude of about 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). The trail gradually ascends through the alpine desert, where the air becomes thinner and temperatures drop. This is a challenging day of trekking, and it can take around 6-8 hours to reach Kibo Hut. Upon arrival, you will rest and prepare for the final push to the summit.

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut

This is the most demanding and rewarding day of the trek. You will begin your ascent to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, which stands at an impressive altitude of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The climb starts in the early hours of the morning, usually around midnight, to ensure that you reach the summit in time for sunrise. It can take approximately 6-8 hours to reach the summit, depending on your pace. The terrain is steep and rocky, and the altitude adds to the challenge. However, the sense of achievement upon reaching the summit is unparalleled. After spending some time at the summit to celebrate and take in the breathtaking views, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest. From there, you will continue your descent to Horombo Hut, where you will spend the night.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

On the final day of the trek, you will descend from Horombo Hut back to the Marangu Gate. The descent usually takes around 5-6 hours. At the gate, you will receive your summit certificates and say farewell to your guides and fellow climbers. From there, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, where you can rest, reflect on your incredible achievement, and celebrate your successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro.