The Marangu Route is the only route on Mount Kilimanjaro where you sleep in mountain huts rather than tents. It is also one of the shorter and more affordable ways to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). The trail climbs from Marangu Gate on the south-east side through rainforest to Mandara Hut, then across open moorland to Horombo Hut. From there it crosses the alpine desert of the Saddle to Kibo Hut, which is the base for summit night.

The Foot Slopes 6-day version includes a recovery and acclimatisation day at Horombo Hut after the summit, with light walks, before the final descent. There is also an optional walk to Maundi Crater on the first afternoon. Foot Slopes quote a summit success rate of around 80% on Marangu.

The climb is led by licensed, English-speaking local mountain guides, with a chef and porters. Park and rescue fees, meals and mineral water on the mountain, airport transfers, and a hotel night in Arusha or Moshi before and after the climb are included.

What's included

Airport pick-up and drop-off; All Kilimanjaro park entrance fees; Rescue fees; Professional English-speaking mountain guide and chef; Porterage; 5 nights' mountain hut accommodation; Meals according to the itinerary; Mineral water every day; 2 nights' hotel accommodation before and after the climb; Government taxes and 18% VAT; Summit certificate at Marangu Gate

What's not included

International and internal flights; Travel insurance; Visa fees; Personal items and souvenirs; Personal trekking equipment; Tips for the crew (suggested from USD 10 per day for porters and USD 15 per day each for the chef and mountain guide)