You certainly can’t climb Kilimanjaro in a day, but our day tour to this the iconic, snow-capped mountain will give you an excellent taster of why Africa’s highest peak is so popular. During the course of the day, we will follow the popular Marangu Route and walk as far as the first hut – the Mandara – where our picnic lunch will be taken. As other trekkers continue upwards, bound for the summit, we will make the descent again and return to Moshi.
Trip Itinerary
Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft) to Mandara Hut (2,743m/9,000ft)
Elevation Gain: 915 meters, 3,000 feet.
Leave bustling, colourful 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.
You will 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 is stunning. You will hike back down to the Marangu Gate where our vehicle will be waiting for you to drive back to Moshi. This Kilimanjaro day hike is suitable for most people, even if you’re a little unfit.
