Kilimanjaro Climb: Marangu 8-day Route

On arrival at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a Vencha representative and transported to a hotel in Moshi town where you’ll spend your first night. Take time to settle in and overcome any jet lag while enjoying the swimming pool and complimentary Wi-Fi. In the evening, a briefing will be held by one of our managers, ensuring you are ready to begin your climb tomorrow.  

As you will be climbing at altitude, it’s important that you abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine and drink plenty of water (at least four litres) every day. You may opt to take a Diamox pill to help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness but please consult your doctor before taking them, in case of potential allergies. If you start to feel any symptoms of altitude sickness, either during your trek or while resting at night, be sure to tell your guide immediately.  Acclimatisation hikes will be conducted along the trek and are highly recommended as they will help to increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro.  

Your guide and mountain support crew will arrive at your hotel in the morning for a quick briefing before you are transported to Kilimanjaro National Park's eastern entrance: Marangu Gate (1,860 m). After acquiring your climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service, you will begin trekking up to the Mandara Hut (2,700 m). The route will take you through the lush rainforest along the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, so be sure to pack your raincoat as tropical showers are highly probable. On arrival at the camp, your mountain support crew will prepare lunch, with the night spent in one of the special huts located along the Marangu route.  

Change in Elevation: Marangu Gate (1,860 m) — Mandara Hut (2,700 m)  
Hiking distance:11 km  
Hiking time:5–7 hours  

After an early morning breakfast, you’ll depart on a moderate trek towards the high altitude camp at Horombo Hut (3,720 m) where you will be treated to views of two spectacular volcanoes - Kibo and Mawenzi. After relaxing over lunch, you’ll embark on a short acclimatisation hike in the direction of Kibo Hut, gaining 200 metres in elevation before returning to Horombo Hut where a hot dinner awaits.   Trekking from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut:  

Change in Elevation: Mandara Hut (2,700 m) — Horombo Hut (3,720 m)   Hiking distance: 10 km   Hiking time:5–6 hours  

Acclimatisation hike:  
Change in Elevation: Horombo Hut (3,720 m)— destination point en route to Kibo Hut (3,920 m)  
Hiking distance: 2.5 km  
Hiking time: 1–2 hours

After breakfast at your camp, you’ll head out on another acclimatisation hike towards Kibo Hut, then return to the Horombo Hut for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, take photographs of Mawenzi Volcano or catch up on your sleep before continuing your trek up Mount Kilimanjaro the following day.  

Acclimatisation hike:  
Change in Elevation: Horombo Hut (3,720 m)— Destination point en route to Kibo Hut (4,500 m)  
Hiking distance: 5–8 km  
Hiking time: 3–4 hours

Today you will trek to the Kibo Hut (4,700 m), with the trekking relatively easy, provided you stick to a slow pace. On arrival at the camp, you’ll be served lunch before spending the afternoon relaxing, sleeping or exploring the surrounds.  

Change in Elevation: Horombo Hut (3,720 m) — Kibo Hut(4,700 m)  
Hiking distance: 10 km  
Hiking time: 4–8 hours

You’ll depart in the early hours of the morning to begin the trek to Kilimanjaro's summit - Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). While the trekking is moderate, the altitude can be a problem for some, so always maintain the slow pace of your guide who will monitor your stamina and mental resolve. After reaching the spectacular summit and revelling in the moment, you’ll descend to the nearest glacier (optional), then continue to Kibo Camp to relax. After a couple of hours here, you’ll continue your descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m) where you’ll spend the night. Be aware that 90% of all accidents on Kilimanjaro occur during the descent, so pay attention and take your time.  

Change in Elevation: Kibo Hut(4,700 m)— Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — Horombo Hut(3,720 m)  
Hiking distance:16 km  
Hiking time: 9–12 hours  

After a warm breakfast, you’ll make the final descent to the Marangu Gate (1,860 m) where you can celebrate your achievement and sign the guestbook. You’ll also be presented with your commemorative certificate before transferring to your hotel in Moshi.  

Change in Elevation: Horombo Hut (3,720 m)—Marangu Gate (1,860 m)  
Hiking distance:18 km  
Hiking time: 5–6 hours