9 Days Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Trek – Marangu Route
Overview:
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, the only trail with hut accommodation. This 6-day trek takes you through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert, leading to a sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa. Perfect for first-time climbers, with optional acclimatisation and full support from experienced guides.
5 nights in mountain huts
All breakfast, lunch and dinner included Day 1 - Day 7
Breakfast & dinner included at Day 8
Breakfast included at Day 9
Highlights:
Unforgettable Panoramic Vistas: Panoramic views from Gillman’s Point and Mawenzi Saddle
Reach the Roof of Africa: Summit Africa’s highest peak – Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
Comfortable Mountain Stays: Stay in mountain huts – ideal for first-time climbers
Trek Through Diverse Landscapes: Rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert landscapes
Discover Unique High-Altitude Flora: See rare plants like giant lobelia and groundsel
Acclimatize with a Scenic Bonus Hike: Optional acclimatisation hike to Zebra Rocks
Climb with an Expert Support Team: Professional guides, porters & full support crew
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
Accommodation | African Tulip Hotel
Meal | Breakfast, Dinner
Day 2: Arusha – Rest & Preparation Day
Free day in Arusha for rest and final equipment checks.
Accommodation | African Tulip Hotel
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Start your trek through Kilimanjaro’s misty rainforest, rich with wildlife and scenic trails. Spend the night at Mandara Hut, a forest cabin with bunk beds, solar lighting, running water, and shared dining where your cook will serve a warm dinner.
Accommodation | Mandara hut
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Pass through open moorland with views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Spot giant lobelias and groundsel along the way.
Accommodation | Horombo Hut
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Acclimatisation Day at Horombo Hut
A short acclimatisation hike to Zebra Rocks and towards Mawenzi Hut helps prepare for higher altitudes.
Accommodation | Horombo Hut
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Day 06: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Hike across the Saddle – the desert-like area between Kibo and Mawenzi. Rest early at Kibo Hut before the summit push.
Accommodation | Kibo Hut
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Summit Day Kibo Hut - Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut
Begin your summit climb just before midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at sunrise. After photos and a brief rest, descend back to Kibo Hut, then continue to Horombo Hut.
Accommodation | Horombo Hut
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate
Final descent through the rainforest. At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and meet your driver for transfer back to your hotel. Breakfast and Dinner included.
Accommodation | African Tulip Hotel
Meal | Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: Arusha
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Meal | Breakfast
✓ What's included
Park fees, hut accommodation, meals, and water
3 nights African Tulip hotel in Arusha
Professional mountain guide, porters, and cook
Airport transfers & hotel stays in Arusha
✕ Not included
International Flights
Visa fees
Personal hiking gear
Any other excursion not included in the itinerary
Personal Insurance
Driver/guide Tips
ⓘ Need-to-know
ⓘ Altitude Awareness:
Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness, especially on Kilimanjaro.
ⓘ Passports Requirements:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. Your booking details must match your passport exactly.
ⓘ Visas:
Visa requirements vary by country. It is your responsibility to obtain the correct visa for your destination and any transit countries. Check visa requirements as soon as you book to allow time for processing.
ⓘ Connectivity:
Expect limited internet or signal on treks. Stay unplugged and enjoy the nature!
ⓘ Yellow Fever:
If arriving from or transiting through a Yellow Fever–risk country (e.g., Kenya, Ethiopia), a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required. Exemption letters from doctors are accepted.
ⓘ Malaria:
Malaria is present in Tanzania. Please consult your doctor or travel clinic for recommended antimalarial medication.
ⓘ Mountain Trekking:
Trekking at high altitudes requires prior medical clearance. Do not attempt if you have respiratory issues, heart conditions, diabetes, or other serious health concerns—this can be dangerous. Written GP approval is required for any health conditions. Please inform us of any physical disabilities. Reading up on altitude and tropical illnesses is strongly advised.
ⓘ Food:
Lodges and camps offer good-quality meals. Avoid tap water—bottled water is widely available. Please inform us of any dietary needs or allergies (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) at the time of booking. For gluten-free diets, bringing your own snacks is recommended.
ⓘ Electricity & Appliances:
Most lodges run on generators, often limited to a few hours daily. Bring a flashlight and spare batteries. Tanzania uses 220–240V, 50Hz power with UK-style 3-pin plugs. If your devices aren't dual voltage, bring a converter. For CPAP users, some camps may charge extra for full-night generator use. Not all accommodations provide hairdryers—bring your own if needed.
ⓘ Tipping:
Tipping is customary in Tanzania, especially for private safaris and treks. It’s best to tip at the end of the trip, directly to your guide or staff. Many lodges also offer a tip box at reception.
ⓘ Plastic Bag Ban:
Since June 1, 2019, Tanzania has banned plastic/polythene bags to protect the environment. Please avoid bringing them. Ziplock bags for personal use are allowed but must not be discarded in the country.