The huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow. There are 60 beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 beds at Horombo llut. Bathrooms and running water are available at the two lower huts. Mens' and ladies' latrines are available at the last camp but are very basic.

All climbing groups, often from several countries around the world, share meals in dining huts providing a jovial and energetic atmosphere. Soft drinks, bottled water, and beer may be for sale at the huts. Bring small Tanzanian bills to purchase these items (prices increase with elevation).

This route is usually done on 5 days but can be done in 6 days or 7 days for better acclimatization. The extra day can be spent resting at Horombo or climbing the small peak of Mawenzi.

Itinerary

Day 0: Moshi 815m/670ft
Booked into your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for overnight and briefing from your guide.

Day 1: Marangu Gate (6000 ft) -- Mandara Hut (9,000 ft)
Hiking time: 4 hours
5500ft to 9000ft
Habitat: Montane forest / Rain forest
After breakfast and briefing, drive to Marangu Gate (about 45 minutes). After registration at the park gate, begin hiking through rainforest from the park gate (6000 ft) to Mandara Hut (9000 ft). This will take about 3 to 4 hours. There is a stop top half way for lunch. Reach Mandara Huts early afternoon. After a short tour at Mandara, you will have an evening meal and stay overnight at the hut. (FIB)

Day 2: Mandara Hut (9,000 ft) — Horombo Huts (12,000 ft)
Hiking time: 6 hours
Habitat: Heath land
After breakfast and packing, leave camp and hike to Horombo Huts (12,000 ft). This section should take around 5 to 6 hrs. You will travel through lower heath land with small shrubs being the main vegetation. There is a stop half way for lunch. Views of Mawenzi are amazing, The summit of Kibo can be seen from Horombo Huts. Arrive Horombo Huts mid to late afternoon. Bathrooms are available with cold running water at Horombo Huts. Dinner and overnight at hut, (FIB)

Day 3: Descending from Horombo to the Marangu Gate
After breakfast, pack up gear and descend to Mandara Huts for lunch. Continue on to the park gate and return to Moshi late in the afternoon and overnight. (BL)