The Marangu Route Kilimanjaro

The Marangu Route on Kilimanjaro

Elevation 1,879m (6,200ft) to 2,720m (8,900ft)
Distance: ~8 km (~5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
You’ll start at the Marangu Gate, trekking through a dense rainforest. You may encounter some wildlife, and the path is relatively easy as you ascend to Mandara Hut, located on the forest edge.

Elevation: 2,720m (8,900ft) to 3,720m (12,200ft)
Distance: ~12 km (~7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
The landscape transitions from rainforest to moorland. As you hike, you’ll start seeing more open vistas and might spot the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The air gets thinner, and you’ll reach Horombo Hut, where you can rest for the night.

Elevation: 3,720m (12,200ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft)
Distance: ~10 km (~6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
You’ll cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, which is more barren and desert-like. It’s a gradual ascent, but the increasing altitude may slow your pace. You’ll reach Kibo Hut in the afternoon, where you’ll rest before the final push to the summit.

Elevation: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,200ft)
Distance: ~18 km (~11 miles)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours (Summit: 6-8 hours, Descent: 4-6 hours)
You’ll wake up around midnight for the final ascent. The hike to the summit is steep and slow, and you’ll reach Gilman’s Point first, then continue to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After taking in the incredible views, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then head to Horombo Hut for the night.

Elevation: 3,720m (12,200ft) to 1,879m (6,200ft)
Distance: ~20 km (~12.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
This is a long descent through the moorland and rainforest zones, taking you back to Marangu Gate where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificate before heading back to your hotel.