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- Duration: 1 Day
- Difficulty: Medium
- Scenery: Very Good
- success rate: High
CLIMBING KILIMANJARO DAY HIKE
A Kilimanjaro day hike offers an accessible, exhilarating adventure for travelers eager to experience Africa’s tallest peak without committing to a full summit trek. This private, guided hike on the Marangu Route allows participants to immerse themselves in the stunning rainforest at the mountain’s base, with unique flora, fauna, and fresh mountain air. Starting from the Marangu Gate, hikers journey up to Mandara Hut for a scenic lunch, accompanied by expert guides who share insights into Kilimanjaro’s rich history and geology. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers, this day trek provides a thrilling taste of Kilimanjaro for those who don’t consider reaching the summit essential. Available year-round, these short treks offer a memorable experience on Africa’s highest peak.
CLIMBING KILIMANJARO DAY HIKE ITINERARY
Day 0
Arrival (Pre-trek Briefing)
We recommend all trekkers to organize their own flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airpot. Then If you have opted for the optional airport transfers, we will pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha airport and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha.
Arrive at least a day before your trek to attend a pre-trek briefing at your hotel. We will review your gear and provide any necessary equipment rentals
Day 1
Arrival
- Arrival: Pre-trek Briefing
- Transport: Private transfer
- Accomodation: Hotel
Day 1
Hike to Mandara Hut and back to park gate
After breakfast at your hotel, you will meet your guide, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (Marangu gate), register and commence the climb. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment. A side trip to Maundi Crater is a good way to see the surroundings including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rain-forest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, bird life, and Colobus monkeys.
After lunch, hike back to park gate and drive back to Moshi or Arusha
Day 1
- Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
- Distance: 8km/5mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours up / 2-3 hours down
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals included: Lunch
Inclusions and Exclusion
The price includes:-
- Certified, experienced, English-speaking guide
- Transport from Moshi or Arusha to starting point on mountain and return to Moshi or Arusha
- National Park gate fees
- Lunch
- VAT (18% charged by the Government)
- Clean, purified drinking water
The price Excludes:-
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
- Tanzania Visa
- Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Transfers (available as an optional addon)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel (available as an optional addon)
Solo
2 pax
3 pax
4 pax
5 pax
6 pax
7+ pax
USD 409
USD 369
USD 363
USD 364
USD360
USD 345
USD 340
Price per person Sharing
SOLO
2 PAX
3 PAX
4 PAX
5 PAX
6 PAX
7 PAX +
USD 409
USD 369
USD363
USD 364
USD 360
USD 345
USD 340
Facts to know before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, a 19,340-foot (5,895-meter) mountain, has three peaks and popular trekking routes. Climbers traverse diverse climate zones over 6–9 days, depending on the route. The first successful ascent was in 1889 by Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller, also requiring an average fitness level.
Trekking Distance
Long Route 98 KM | Short Route 62 KM
Kilimanjaro Three Peaks
Kibo | Mawenzi | Shira
Climate Zones
Rainforest, Heather, Moorland, Alpine, Arctic
First Climb
1889, Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller
Required Skills
Average fitness level
Kilimanjaro Routes
Lemosho, Machame, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Marangu, Umbwe
Kilimanjaro Hike Lengths
5-9 days depend on Routes
For a Mount Kilimanjaro day hike, the Marangu Route is the most popular and accessible option. Known as the "Coca-Cola Route," it offers a scenic experience with lush rainforest, panoramic views, and relatively shorter trekking durations compared to other routes. This route is suitable for hikers who want to experience the mountain's beauty without committing to a multi-day climb. If you're short on time but still eager to hike, the Marangu Day Hike offers an ideal introduction to the wonders of Kilimanjaro.
A Mount Kilimanjaro day hike, though challenging, is manageable for most fit hikers. The difficulty depends on the altitude and the selected route. While it's significantly less demanding than a multi-day trek, the high elevation (starting at 1,800 meters and climbing above 2,700 meters) can cause altitude-related discomfort such as shortness of breath. It’s crucial to be in good physical condition and acclimatize to avoid any risks.
During your Mount Kilimanjaro day hike, you'll witness diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine meadows. Expect to see vibrant plant life, a variety of bird species, and possibly wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds. The hike also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding plains and distant mountain peaks. The higher you go, the more breathtaking the vistas become.
Yes, it is required to have a licensed guide for a Mount Kilimanjaro day hike. Tanzania’s National Parks regulations stipulate that all climbers, including day hikers, must be accompanied by a certified guide for safety and navigation. A knowledgeable guide will provide insight into the local flora, fauna, and the mountain's history, ensuring both an informative and safe adventure.
The ideal time for a Mount Kilimanjaro day hike is during the dry seasons, which are from late June to October and mid-December to March. These months offer the most stable weather, with clear skies and minimal rain, providing optimal hiking conditions. Avoid the rainy seasons (April to May) when trails can be slippery and visibility may be poor.
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