Today is an acclimatization day of your Marangu route 7 Days and you will continue along a steep ridge passing the Great Barranco Wall passing below the Heim Glacier and through the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley where you will have views of the summit from many different angles.
After breakfast you will depart Arusha and drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park, home to the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing at 5,895m high, it is known as the Roof of Africa. Upon arrival at the Marangu Gate you will sign in, complete your registration and other formalities before beginning your trek with your team of Guides, Chefs and Porters.
You will ascend through the rainforest on a cleared ridge where many of Kilimanjaro’s wildlife is found. An alternative and more scenic parallel trail follows a stream through the undergrowth and offers the option to re-join the main trail after 1.5 hours of Marangu route 7 Days hiking or just before you arrive at Mandara Hut.
You will spend the night at Mandara Hut consisting of A-framed huts offering 6-8 bunk beds with solar power and flush toilets. The total capacity here is 60 climbers and water is piped into the camp from springs.
Today you will continue your Marangu route 7 Days along a steep ascent through the forest which later opens into high moorland where you will see some of Kilimanjaro’s spectacular flora and fauna. You will have the opportunity to walk to Maundi Crater which offers views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya and, weather permitting, you may get your first glimpse of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks which are two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro
In the early afternoon you will arrive at Horombo Hut where you will rest while your Chef prepares dinner.
You will continue your trek into the early hours of the morning and the first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave at 5,510m where you will have the opportunity to have a short rest if required. You will continue along a steep path to Gilman’s Point at 5,681m which is located on the Crater rim and this is the most demanding section of the Marangu route.
From Gilman’s Point it is common to encounter snow all the way to Uhuru Peak, the summit of the world’s tallest free-standing mountain at 5,895m high. Here you will watch the sun rise from the Roof of Africa, a once in a lifetime experience. After time to enjoy the view you will begin your descent to Kibo Hut where you will have breakfast and some well-deserved rest before continuing your descent to Horombo Hut where you will spend your final night on the mountain.
After a leisurely breakfast you will continue your descent to the Marangu Gate where successful climbers receive their summit certificate. Your vehicle will be waiting for you and will drive you to Arusha where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
After a leisurely breakfast you will continue your descent to the Mweka Gate where successful climbers receive their summit certificate. Your vehicle will be waiting for you and will drive you to Arusha where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
We also offer accommodation located in the heart of Arusha as well as at coffee lodges and 5-star hotels. Upgrade to one of our 5-start hotels – The Arusha Hotel or the Mount Meru Hotel for just $35 per person, per night. If you would like to upgrade your pre or post safari accommodation in Arusha please ask us for recommendations and availability.
A Tanzanian holiday is a dream come true and a once in a lifetime experience for most of our clients. We understand that every traveller is different and we are proud to offer a range of optional activities to enhance your safari experience.
We offer Arusha City Tours (half or full day), Coffee Farm Tours, Night Tours with Dinner or visit the Lengo Football Academy with Village Walk. Please ask us for a detailed tour description and prices.
Benson Safaris Tanzania, founded in 2006, offers expertly guided Wildlife Safaris, Mountain Treks, and Beach Breaks.
