8-Day Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour via Marangu Route
Embark on an unforgettable Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour along the iconic Marangu Route, known as the shortest and easiest path to the “Roof of Africa”. This 8-day adventure includes six days of hiking, offering ample time for acclimatization while staying in comfortable, solar-powered huts. Enjoy the sociable atmosphere of shared dining halls and the convenience of refreshments along the famous “Coca-Cola Route”.
Quick Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Usa River
Your Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour begins with a pickup from Kilimanjaro International Airport and a transfer to Usa River, near Arusha. Spend the day relaxing at the peaceful Meru View Lodge. In the evening, you’ll receive a detailed briefing about your upcoming hike along the Marangu Route and prepare your gear for the climb.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Usa River to Marangu Gate (1860m) to Mandara Hut (2700m)
After breakfast, we drive to Kilimanjaro National Park and begin our ascent. Hike through the lush rainforest, spotting wildlife such as black-and-white colobus monkeys. After 3–4 hours of hiking, arrive at Mandara Hut. In the afternoon, visit Maundi Crater for stunning views before dinner and overnight rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Altitude gain: 840m
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2700m) to Horombo Hut (3700m)
Continue your Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour through heath and moorland, ascending beyond the treeline. After 5–6 hours of hiking, reach Horombo Hut with breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Altitude gain: 1000m
Day 4: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Zebra Rocks (4020m) and Return
Today is a crucial acclimatization day to improve summit success. Enjoy a relaxed hike to the striking Zebra Rocks before returning to Horombo Hut for a warm lunch and rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Altitude: Climb 400m & Descend 400m
Day 5: Horombo Hut (3700m) to Kibo Hut (4700m)
The trail leads across a barren plateau known as the “saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. After 5–6 hours, reach Kibo Hut, where an early dinner and rest await in preparation for the summit attempt.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Altitude gain: 1000m
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4700m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Descent to Horombo Hut (3700m)
The most challenging and rewarding day of the Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour! Start before midnight, trekking past Hans Meyer Cave to reach Gilman’s Point at sunrise. Then continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking time: 12–16 hours
Altitude: Climb 1200m & Descend 2200m
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Usa River
Complete your descent through the heath and rainforest, arriving at Marangu Gate. After a warm lunch, transfer back to the lodge in Usa River to relax, enjoy a hot shower, and celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro summit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Altitude descent: 1840m
Day 8: Departure – Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport
After a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, your driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your incredible Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour.
Meals: Breakfast
Important Tour Notes
- This Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour is available as a private climb.
- Optional extensions such as affordable Tanzania safaris or Zanzibar beach holidays can be easily added to your itinerary.