Marangu Day Trip

Kilimanjaro hiking day trip tour:

Marangu day hike involves going up to the first camp Mandara hut (2720m asl) and back via the same route on the same day. From Moshi to Kilimanjaro National Park Head Quarters (Marangu Gate) .Marangu gate it is about 45km.At  Marangu gate you have to do some registrations and pay the park entrance fee to get a valid permit to start the hike. Marangu gate is 1879m above sea level and the distance to Mandara hut is 8km (16 km round trip), which will take 3 to 4 hours for each direction.

Montane Forest
On the way to from the Marangu gate to Mandara hut you will cross the rain forest which is a dense forest, pure green with a lot of species of plants. If you are lucky you can see Blue Monkeys and a black and white Colobus Monkeys.

Marangu Gate (1,860 meters)
Arrival Time at Marangu gate Approximately 9:00 to 9:30 AM from Moshi or Arusha
Activities
Register with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities.
Final preparations and short briefings by your guide other more information
he/she will give you on the way when you started aready to climb.
Departure for Hike Begin the hike by 9:30 AM to 10:00am depending on your
starting point.

Trek to Mandara Hut (2,700 meters)
The distance from the Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut is approximately 8 kilometers
(about 5 miles). The hike is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty due to
the steady incline, and it takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on
individual pace and frequency of stops.

This section of the Marangu Route allows
hikers to experience the lush montane forest that covers the lower slopes of Mount
Kilimanjaro.

Here’s a closer look at what you might see along the way in terms of
fauna and flora:

Vegetation
Montane Forest The trek begins in the rich, green montane forest, which is
characterized by tall trees and dense underbrush. This environment is markedly
humid and receives ample rainfall.

Impatiens Kilimanjari

Among the undergrowth, you might notice the Impatiens
Kilimanjari, a species of flower endemic to Kilimanjaro.

Tree Ferns, These ancient plants add to the primeval feel of the forest. Their large,
green fronds are unmistakable against the forest backdrop.
Moss and Lichens As you ascend, the trees become adorned with moss and
lichens, a testament to the moist air within the forest zone.

Fauna
Colobus Monkeys, These striking primates, known for their black bodies and long
white tails, are a highlight for many hikers. They tend to stay in the trees but are
often heard before they are seen.

Blue Monkeys, Another primate species that inhabits this lush forest, blue monkeys
are more frequently spotted than their Colobus counterparts, thanks to their less
elusive nature.

Birds, The montane forest is a birder’s paradise, hosting a variety of bird species.
Keep an ear out for the distinctive calls and look out for vibrant flashes of color
from birds like the Turaco.

Small Mammals, While less conspicuous, the forest is home to a variety of small
mammals, including dik-diks (tiny antelopes) and bushbabies.
Arrival at Mandara Hut Around 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM.

Activities at Mandara Hut:
Lunch break Short rest or exploration of the surrounding area.
Maundi Crater Hike Duration Roughly 15 to 30 minutes from Mandara Hut
After lunch and a bit of rest, embark on a short hike to Maundi Crater. This is an
excellent spot for views of the Kenyan side of Kilimanjaro, the Northern Highlands,
and on clear days, the kibo peak (uhuru) and Mawenzi peak.
Spend time taking in the vistas and capturing photos.

Return to Marangu Gate Departure from Mandara Hut Aim to leave by 2:00 PM to
ensure ample daylight for the descent.
Arrival at Marangu Gate Expected between 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
those who wish to have them as a souvenir we will pass to souvenir and
drive back to your Hotel / Home