Marangu Route Day Trip - Mandara Hut

Embark on a full-day trek along the Kilimanjaro Marangu Trail to Mandara Hut. Experience the rainforest and breathtaking mountain scenery for unforgettable memories.

Tour Duration: Full Day

Page Highlights

Safari Experiences

Trekking Experiences

Overview

The Marangu Route offers a perfect introduction to the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro without requiring a full summit climb. This day trip takes you to Mandara Hut, the first stop on the Marangu trail - nestled on the mountain’s southeastern slopes at 2,700 meters.

Your adventure begins with a drive from Moshi to the Marangu Gate, which takes approximately one hour. From there, you will start your trek through a rainforest filled with unique flora and fauna. You might spot black and white colobus monkeys and tall moss-covered trees along the way. This well-marked trail offers an enjoyable experience for both beginners and experienced hikers, taking around 3 to 4 hours to reach Mandara Hut.

Before arriving at Mandara, you will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy lunch in one of the picnic areas surrounded by peaceful scenery. After reaching Mandara Hut, if time and energy permit, you can extend your trek to the nearby Maundi Crater, which is a 15 to 20-minute climb from the hut. On a clear day, the views from the crater rim extend across the Kenyan border, offering an impressive panorama of Kilimanjaro.

The descent follows the same forest path that we will use for the hike, offering the best views and photo opportunities along the way. By late afternoon, you will return to the Marangu Gate and head back to Moshi.

Trip Highlights

  • Start Point: Moshi Town
  • End Point: Moshi Town
  • Transport: Private vehicle (round trip from Moshi)
  • Destinations Covered: Mount Kilimanjaro (Marangu Route to Mandara Hut, Maundi Crater optional)
  • Theme: Nature, Hiking and Adventure
  • Group Size: Minimum: 1 traveler
  • Physical Rating: Easy to Moderate (3–4 hour forest hike each way)
  • Ages: Suitable for ages 10+ (reasonable fitness recommended)
  • Meals Included: Picnic lunch at Kisambioni or Mandara Hut
  • Altitude gain: 1860 m to 2700 m
  • Distance (one way): 8 km
  • Habitat: Rainforest

1-Day Itinerary

Morning Departure

You will start your day early, having breakfast before leaving Moshi to Marangu Gate for the registration procedures to obtain a permit. The drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate takes approximately 1-2 hours.

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

After completing your registration and obtaining a permit, you will begin your hike from Marangu Gate, which is located at an elevation of 1,860 meters. The trail takes you through a rainforest pathway to Mandara Hut, situated at 2,700 meters. This hike features gentle slopes and well-maintained paths, making it suitable for children and easy for all hikers.

Picnic lunch at Kisambioni or at Mandara Hut

We will stop at Kisambioni for a picnic lunch in this beautiful area, surrounded by the breathtaking sights and sounds of the rainforest. This will be a chance to enjoy lunch, take a rest, and use the restrooms for those who need them, before we prepare to continue our journey to Mandara Hut.

Exploration and Nature Walk

After lunch, we will continue our walk to Mandara Hut, where we will have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area on a guided nature walk. During this exploration, we will experience the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest ecosystem, including unique plants and monkeys. If time permits, we will also visit the Maundi Crater.

Hike to Maundi Crater (Elevation/Altitude: 2760m)

Maundi Crater is a small volcanic crater located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, just a short walk of about one kilometer from Mandara Hut. This scenic area is a popular addition for day hikers, providing an easy extension to their trek. The crater is picturesque, surrounded by lush rainforest, and the views from its rim are breathtaking, offering a sweeping panorama of the Kenyan plains and the vast landscape of Kilimanjaro. Visiting Maundi Crater enhances your day trip with beauty and adventure, making it a must-see attraction.

Return to Marangu Gate:

After spending a few hours at Mandara Hut, begin your descent back to the Marangu Gate. Take your time on the return journey, allowing children to explore and enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Evening Return

Arrive back at the Marangu Gate in the late afternoon or early evening. From there, return to your accommodation in Moshi, reflecting on the day’s adventure and the memories made on Kilimanjaro.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
  • Small backpack for personal items
  • Camera and binoculars
  • Sunscreen and a hat

Tour prices

Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group of friends, you'll find great value with us. The more people in your group, the lower the cost per person.

Non Residents
Residents
East Africa Citizens
1 Pax2 Pax3 Pax4 Pax5 Pax6+ Pax
250215190180170165
1 Pax2 Pax3 Pax4 Pax5 Pax6+ Pax
Looking for Resident rates? We’re happy to help! Just reach out to us, and we’ll provide a tailored price for your safari adventure.
1 Pax2 Pax3 Pax4 Pax5 Pax6+ Pax
Looking for East African Citizen rates? We’re happy to help! Just reach out to us, and we’ll provide a tailored price for your safari adventure.

Included in cost

  • Transfer from Moshi and back.
  • Entry ticket.
  • Experienced guides throughout the trip.
  • Lunch.
  • Soft drinks and water.

The price does not include

  • Accommodation in Moshi (can be arranged upon request)
  • Tips for the guide (optional - USD 10 from the group).
  • Alcoholic beverages.
  • Any additional activities which are not included in the itinerary

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