Camp

Mandara Hut

First camp on Kilimanjaro's Marangu Route.

Tanzania

Location

Dry seasons

Best Time to Visit

2,700 m

Altitude

Camp

Mandara Hut

First camp on Kilimanjaro's Marangu Route.

Tanzania

Location

Dry seasons

Best Time to Visit

2,700 m

Altitude

About Mandara Hut

Mandara Hut is the first overnight stop for climbers on the Marangu Route of Mount Kilimanjaro. Situated at an altitude of 2,700 meters, this camp offers basic amenities and is a significant milestone for trekkers aiming to summit the highest peak in Africa. The area around the hut showcases rich montane forest, offering hikers their first taste of...

When to go

Excellent

Good

Fair

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Seasons

July - October

January - March

Best time to go

Optimal weather and visibility for summiting.

April - June

Low Season

Heavy rainfall makes the routes slippery and challenging.

December - March

July - October

High Season

Clear skies and warm temperatures make for ideal climbing conditions.

November - November

Shoulder Season

Short rains can occur, but the mountain is less crowded.

What to do

Featured Experiences

Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro, standing tall at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet), is not just Africa's highest peak but a symbol of adventure, challenge, and natural beauty that draws thousands of climbers from around ...

Where to stay

Related destinations

Mount Kilimanjaro

Tanzania

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations

Kilimanjaro climbing involves risks; ensure you're physically prepared and acclimate properly to avoid altitude sickness. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Typhoid, and Hepatitis A are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is advisable.

For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :

CDC Travelers' Health

CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations

Getting There

The closest major airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport. From there, it's about an hour's drive to Marangu Gate, the starting point for the Mandara Hut trek.

Getting Around

Climbing Kilimanjaro is strictly on foot. Porters and guides are essential and are arranged as part of the trekking package.

Visas

From January 2024, visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to arrival unless from exempted countries. The eTA is applied online, and proof of accommodation or an invitation letter is required.