KILIMANJARO MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

THE MARANGU ROUTE This tour is based from Arusha, Tanzania.
Day 1 Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut	The vehicles take the climbers to the Marangu Gate, from where the climber enters the rain forest. It is a 3 hour walk through verdant scenery to Mandara Hut at 2743m. The forest teems with bird life, and colobus and other monkeys may be seen.
Day 2 Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut	Today's trek to Horombo Hut at 3760m is about 10 miles and takes 6-7 hours. About half an hour after leaving Mandara, the climber emerges from the rain forest into alpine meadow. This is a very scenic day with splendid views possible of the peaks and of the plains below the mountain. The vegetation is also quite spectacular, where giant lobelia and senecios may be seen.
Day 3 Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut	The climb continues to Kibo Hut at 4730m which is at the foot of Kibo Peak. The route takes the climber up to the saddle between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi, and then across the high altitude desert to the hut. The climb takes about 6 hours.
Day 4 Kibo Hut to the top, and descent to Horombo Hut	Leave the hut at about 1am to attempt the summit. The rim of the crater at Gillman's Point (5680m), recognised as the top, is reached after a stiff climb up a very steep, loose scree slope. On average this takes six hours. Those who feel strong enough can then continue for 2 hours along the crater rim to attain the true summit at Uhuru Peak at 5895m. Commence the descent to Horombo Hut.
Day 5	Descend to the Marangu gate and transfer back to the hotel.
The fully equipped climb includes : Accommodation in mountain huts, guides and porters, bedding and equipment, catering on the mountain and applicable park fees.	Required equipment : All climbers should bring anorak, mittens, balaclava, snow goggles or sun glasses, scarf, 3 pairs warm trousers, sweaters, 6 pairs of warm socks, thermal underwear, water-proof layer, sun-proof hat, comfortable boots, sun cream, small first-aid kit, lip salve, personal toiletries.