The famous peak of Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest and has been challenging climbers for many years. The Marangu Route is the most popular and relatively straightforward and makes use of comfortable mountain chalets, some with permanent staff, along the way; Mandara, Horombo and Kibo.
The trail doesn’t present too many difficulties, apart from the last climb on day 4 which is considered to be mildly strenuous. Walking times given are approximate and based on a person with a moderate level of fitness. This route is classified as a trek rather than a climb and the view from the top is really quite extraordinary.
What's included:
• Transfers and transport as specified
• Mountain guide and porters
• National park fees
• Accommodation
• Breakfast and dinner in Kilimanjaro
• All meals whilst climbing
Day 1 - You will be met on arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to your hotel for your pre climb briefing, afterwards relax and get to know your fellow climbers over dinner. Overnight at Keys Hotel.
Day 2 - After breakfast set off for Marangu Gate. En route pass through the village of Marangu which is attractively set amid banana and coffee plantations. After completing entrance paperwork you will climb through the rain forest to Mandara hut which sits at 2700 metres. The climb this day is around 3 hours.
Day 3 - Make a steep climb up through the forest and cross open moorland. On a clear day the views of Kibo and Mawenzi are quite spectacular. Continue through open moorland until your reach Horombo hut at 3720 metres. The climb this day is approximately 4-6 hours.
Day 4 - Today you will climb through a varied landscape of moorland forest and then alpine desert before you will reach "The Saddle" between the twin peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. You will notice the change in altitude and changing terrain as you get higher. On arrival at Kibo Hut there is time to rest and prepare yourself for tomorrows big climb. Kibo lies at 4700 metres and the climb today is around 4-5 hours.
Day 5 - Make a very early start for the summit on steep and heavy scree up to Gilman's Point which sits at 5686 metres and is on the crater rim. Continue around the rim which will take about two hours if you are fit to Uhuru Peak at 5895 metres the highest place in all Africa. Afterwards descend to Kibo Hut for refreshments and then down to Horombo hut for overnight. The climb today is around 11-15 hours.
Day 6 - Take a pleasant walk towards Marangu gate retracing your steps from a few days before. When you finish the climb a vehicle will drive you to Keys Hotel for hot showers, dinner and a warm bed for overnight. Walking time today around 5-6 hours.
Day 7 - After breakfast transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight.
5 day Kilimanjaro Climb from £965.
Departs daily. Optional extra day - normally spent at Horombo with a climb to Mawenza Hut (4600m), overnight stay and return to Horombo Hut from £147.
For help, advice or to make a booking, call 0844 567 4020
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