6 Days Marangu Route

The 6-day Marangu Route is an excellent option for those who want to summit Mount Kilimanjaro with better acclimatization compared to the 5-day trek. This extra day significantly improves your chances of successfully reaching the summit while minimizing the risks of altitude sickness. The Marangu Route is the only one on Kilimanjaro that uses huts for overnight stays, making it more comfortable than other routes where you must camp in tents.

Here’s a detailed 6-day itinerary for the Marangu Route:

Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)

Your journey begins at the Marangu Gate (1,860 meters) after completing the necessary registration process. The trek starts through the lush rainforest, where you may spot wildlife like colobus monkeys and colorful birds. The trail is gradual, with an easy ascent, allowing you to settle into the rhythm of trekking.
Once you arrive at Mandara Hut (2,700 meters), you will be treated to a cozy cabin with a bed, a dining area, and a toilet facility. The hut is a great place to rest after the first leg of the journey.

Overnight: Mandara Hut
Meals: Provided by your trekking company

Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

On Day 2, you’ll leave the rainforest and hike through the moorland zone, where the scenery changes dramatically. The trail becomes more open, with fewer trees and more expansive views. As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush grasslands dotted with wildflowers.
The trek is moderately challenging, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
You’ll arrive at Horombo Hut (3,720 meters), which is located on the edge of the moorland and gives you a great view of the peak of Kilimanjaro. Here, you can rest and acclimatize to the altitude.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Provided by your trekking company

Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)

Day 3 is a long day, and you will move into the alpine desert zone, where the terrain becomes increasingly barren and rocky. The trail takes you past a few scattered shrubs, with occasional glimpses of the vast, flat plateau leading to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters), which lies just below the summit crater.
While the ascent is gradual, the air thins, and you may begin to feel the altitude. It’s essential to take it slow and conserve energy for the summit push ahead.
After reaching Kibo Hut, you will have a well-deserved rest before the summit attempt. The night at this altitude can be cold, so be sure to have your warm clothing ready.

Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals: Provided by your trekking company

Day 4: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

This is the summit day, and it’s the most demanding part of the entire trek. You will start your ascent in the middle of the night, around midnight, to allow for a sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters).
The trail is steep, winding through loose scree (volcanic rock), and the going is slow, as you are at very high altitudes. The night trek can be tough, but the reward for reaching the summit is worth it.
At Uhuru Peak, you’ll be standing at the highest point in Africa. The sunrise from the peak is spectacular, and you’ll have the opportunity to take in the view from the crater rim.
After spending a brief time at the summit, you’ll begin your descent. The descent to Horombo Hut is long but faster than the ascent. Make sure to take care of your knees, as the steep descent can be tough on them.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Provided by your trekking company

Day 5: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m)

The final day is a descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. The path is less challenging than previous days, and the terrain transitions from the alpine desert back to the lush rainforest zone.
Along the way, you’ll see more vegetation and possibly spot some wildlife, including monkeys and birds.
Upon reaching the Marangu Gate, you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificate if you successfully reached Uhuru Peak. The trek ends here, and you’ll likely be met by your vehicle for transfer back to your accommodation or onward destination.

Advantages of the 6-Day Marangu Route

• Better Acclimatization: The extra day at Horombo Hut allows for better acclimatization, which reduces the chances of altitude sickness.
• Comfortable Accommodation: The route uses huts instead of tents, which is a major advantage for those who prefer more comfortable accommodations with bunk beds, a roof, and toilets.
• Scenic Variety: The Marangu Route takes you through diverse landscapes, from the lush rainforest to the alpine desert and the barren summit zone, providing an unforgettable visual experience.
• Success Rate: The extra day increases your chances of success in reaching the summit by allowing your body more time to adjust to the high altitude.