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Kilimanjaro Day Hike – Marangu Route

1 Day

Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro is the awe-inspiring landmark of Tanzania but you don’t need to climb it to experience its full beauty and the captivating terrain that surrounds it. Our Sneak Peek of the Peak Hike is a Kilimanjaro day trip that gives you the opportunity to scramble up the first leg of the famed Marangu Route, through rainforest twittering with birdlife and chattering, curious blue monkeys. Watch out for a colobus or two!

Overview

Experience the thrill of a Kilimanjaro day hike via the Marangu route, conquering the majestic slopes of Africa’s highest peak in a single day while enjoying stunning scenery and a memorable adventure.

Itinerary

Elevation Gain: 915 meters, 3,000 feet

Leave bustling, colorful Moshi early for the drive to Marangu Gate, the threshold of magnificent Kilimanjaro. It’s just an hour’s drive, but you’ll be captivated by the countryside – coffee and banana plantations, through picturesque Marangu village, with Kilimanjaro rising majestically ahead of you.

We’ll register you at the Marangu Gate (because we don’t want to lose you!) and then your adventure will begin. At first, the ridged trail is narrow as you wander through the rainforest. It’s lush and misty, with the trees adorned with moss. The canopy overhead is alive with birdsong and strange rustlings – is that a colobus? Mongoose might scuttle ahead of you. You’ll also meet tired hikers descending from the summit. Give them a high five for effort.

The hike to Mandara Hut is around three hours so stop to rest your legs and have a tasty lunch at the Hut and once you’ve replenished yourself, take the short but challenging walk to the Maundi Crater. On a clear day, the views to the east over Taveta and to the northwest to Mawenzi Peak are stunning. Don’t forget your camera! After basking in the beauty of it, you’ll hike back down to the Marangu Gate where our vehicle will be waiting for you to drive you, tired but happy, back to Moshi. This Kilimanjaro day hike is suitable for most people, even if you’re a little unfit!

Price includes:

  • Transport
  • Park fees
  • Driver guide
  • Lunch box
  • 2 Litres bottle of water

Price excludes

  • Personal items (Sturdy shoes, swim wear & towel)
  • Gratuities / "tip" for guide
  • Travel insurance
How big is the group and where are my fellow travellers from?

Group sizes vary however there is a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 30 travellers per group. Traveler’s are from all over the world and from all walks of life

Is there an age limit on this tour?

As per the national park authorities, the minimum age for climbing Kilimanjaro is 10 years but seeing that children are more prone to altitude sickness than adults, we recommend a minimum age of 14-16 years. There is no maximum age restriction, but a medical check-up is advisable for people over the age of 60.

Is it possible to climb Kilimanjaro at any time of the year?

Generally yes. We however discourage any attempts during the main rainy season (end of March to beginning of June). In the small rainy season (November), daily short rainfalls and cloudy views can be expected. From December until the end of February, temperatures are at their highest and rainfall is at its minimum. The best time to travel is between the end of June and the middle of October, when temperatures are a little lower and there is almost no rainfall

Do I need a visa for this trip?

Citizens of all nationalities need to contact the respective embassies of their travel destination to check the visa regulations.

In general, European citizens can apply for a Tanzanian Tourism Visa upon arrival in Tanzania.
It is the sole responsibility of every traveller to be in possession of the required documents and visa that allows them to enter their holiday destination.

Do I need vaccinations for this trip?

The trekking tour starts and ends in Tanzania, a yellow fever region, which is why we recommend a yellow fever vaccination. Although there are no mosquitoes at high altitude, Tanzania is within a malaria region. It is up to you if you wish to take medication, but we suggest that you speak to your doctor or travel clinic about the different prophylaxis and their effects and side effects.

Although Tanzania does not require proof of immunization against Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio and Hepatitis A & B, we nevertheless recommend those vaccinations.

What kind of equipment and clothing should I bring?

Travel bag, backpack or kitbag, weighing no more than 12kg (please do not bring a suitcase or trolley bag, as this type of luggage cannot be carried by the porters)

Day backpack with rain protection
High quality sleeping bag for harsh conditions (at night temperatures can drop to -20°C)
Different layers of clothing including thermal base layers, fleece clothing, trekking pants, warm jacket and water-resistant top layers as well as a warm headgear.
Water-resistant and comfortable hiking boots and a variety of trekking socks
Please note that the above list is not complete and these are just a few things that you will have to bring with you. Once we have confirmed your booking, you will receive a more detailed list.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Kilimanjaro Day Hike – Marangu Route