The most commonly utilized route, Marangu is popular with first-time hikers. The route illustrates Kilimanjaro’s progressive changes in scenery from the rain forest, extensive moorland, and alpine desert, until the eventual climb up loose gravel to the snow line on the lip of this dormant volcano’s peak.
We recommend comfortable light clothing for the day and something warmer for the evenings, which can be chilly in the northern highlands. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for those planning on walking in the parks (must be booked in advance). You will further need a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
You can find a more detailed list of items to take in our article "What to take on Tanzania safari?"
In short - Tanzania is absolutely safe for tourists. Tourism provides a large part of the country’s foreign income and the local authorities take matters of security very seriously. Moreover, Tanzania is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and Tanzanians are very friendly as a people.
This said, some criminality does exist, just as it does everywhere else. We, therefore, recommend that you exercise common sense and follow the rules below:
Avoid the dangerous parts of any town- these are mentioned in most books and your guide will be happy to point them out.
Do not leave your belongings unattended.
When planning to take photos in towns, it is best to bring along a guide. This is not so much in the interests of safety, but, rather to facilitate communication with the locals, who are – for cultural reasons – not always happy about being photographed and often do not speak English.
After dark it is best to avoid walking. Instead, use taxis for all your travel within town. These are best organized by your tour operator or hotel reception.
We highly recommend that you have your travel insurance regardless of what foreign country you may be visiting. If you are planning a Kilimanjaro climb, make sure that climbing emergencies are covered in your policy at height no less than 6,000 meters. If necessary your Tour Manager will assist with purchasing such insurance.
The day starts with an early drive to Marangu gate. After registering at the park gates, we begin trekking through the rainforest for 3-4 hrs to Mandara hut 2750m. Supper & overnight.
After breakfast, leave the confines of the rainforest, and continue trekking past the Maundi crater into open rolling moorlands where you will get your first clear view of towering Kilimanjaro in the distance. A 5-6 hrs trek brings you toHorombo hut 3807m. Supper and overnight. (An extra day at Horombo hut for acclimatization is recommended). Supper & overnight.
After a good night's rest trek past the last water point to reach Kibo Saddle, a broad desert zone between the two peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. This stunning trek takes 5-6hrs reaching Kibo hut at 4725m. Supper and overnight.
The start for the summit is made just after midnight. The steepest part taking you to Gillman's point (5700m) 5-6 hrs on the rim of Kili's crater. Another 90 minutes of trekking across glaciers will bring you to Uhuru Peak 5895m (the highest peak in Africa). The descent takes approximately 5-6 hrs down to Horombo hut where you will overnight.
Spend the day descending to Marangu Gate where you will be presented with your certificate of accomplishment before transferring to your hotel.
The most commonly utilized route, Marangu is popular with first-time hikers. The route illustrates Kilimanjaro’s progressive changes in scenery from the rain forest, extensive moorland, and alpine desert, until the eventual climb up loose gravel to the snow line on the lip of this dormant volcano’s peak.
