The best Kilimanjaro climbing 5 Days Marangu Route 2025/2026

5 Days Marangu Route

The Marangu route is both popular and affordable. It is the only route that provides mountain cabins instead of tents for overnight stays. The trail goes straight up to the summit and back down the same way. The daily altitude variations are severe, thus this route is only suitable for experienced climbers.

It takes five days to ascend by the Marangu route. However, one extra day is recommended to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude. If you choose, you can spend an extra night at the Horombo huts on the fourth day and go on an acclimatization hike. This extra day significantly improves your chances of reaching the peak.

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION

• Arusha Town/Moshi Town

ROUTE

• Marangu

PRICE

• 2 PAX – 2,162$
• 4 PAX – 1,832$
• 6 PAX – 1,826$

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by your Summerwinter Adventures guide and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. After checking in, relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Preparation for the Climb: You will have a pre-climb briefing with your guide, who will provide you with important details regarding the climb, what to bring, and tips for your comfort and safety.

Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Your adventure starts at Marangu Gate (1,830m / 6,004ft), where your trek begins through the lush rainforest. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you hike steadily to Mandara Hut (2,700m / 8,858ft). The trek is relatively short but offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Elevation: 1,830m (6,004ft) – 2,700m (8,858ft)
Duration: 3-4 hours

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

On Day 2, you will leave Mandara Hut (2,700m) and continue your trek to Horombo Hut (3,720m / 12,205ft), passing through more rainforest and emerging into the moorland zone. The altitude gain can be felt as you ascend, but the views become more expansive, with clear vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding valleys.
Elevation: 2,700m (8,858ft) – 3,720m (12,205ft)
Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

On Day 3, you will hike from Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m / 15,419ft), passing through alpine meadows and transitioning into the barren, rocky terrain near the summit. The altitude will start to affect you, so it’s important to take it slow. You’ll reach Kibo Hut in preparation for the final summit push.
Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) – 4,700m (15,419ft)
Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Marangu Gate

This is the final and most challenging day of your trek. You will start your summit attempt around midnight, hiking from Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft). The ascent takes you through a steep and tiring route, but the views from the summit are absolutely worth the effort. After reaching Uhuru Peak, you’ll descend back down to Mweka Gate (1,640m / 5,381ft), where you’ll be greeted with congratulations and transported back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Elevation: 4,700m (15,419ft) – 5,895m (19,341ft) – 1,640m (5,381ft)
Duration: 12-14 hours (summit ascent + descent)