The charm and hospitality of this small hotel will transport you back in time to the 1920's. Nestled at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Marangu Hotel offers plenty of grounds and lovely gardens to explore as you prepare for your climb.

Each stone cottage has two ensuite rooms with a shared living area in the centre. The dining room is large and airy, serving the hearty, home-style food you'll need for the days ahead!

Whilst a lovely spot to stay for gentle hiking as well, most visitors are here to test themselves on Africa's highest Mountain, Kilimanjaro. The Marangu guides and porters are truly some of the best in the business, ensuring you summit Africa's highest mountain safely.

The majority of visitors use the Marangu Route to the summit as this is the gentlest route. A classic Kilimanjaro Itinerary takes seven nights and eight days.

Day 1: Arrive at the Kilimanjaro Airport on an International flight, or a connecting flight from Nairobi. Met and transferred to the Marangu Hotel for your briefing and preparation for your Mountain Climb. Dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Set out on the Marangu Route up Kilimanjaro. You will transfer from the hotel to Marangu gate (1800m) and start the ascent with 3 or 4 hrs walking in the morning through the Kilimanjaro forest to arrive at Mandara hut at lunchtime. Overnight at Mandara hut (2700m, 9000ft).

Day 3: A 5-7 hrs trek through the rain forest and Alpine moorlands to Horombo Hut. Overnight at Horombo Hut (1200ft, 3720m).

Day 4: Acclimatize at Horombo Hut for a full day with hiking in the area. Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 5: A 5-6 hrs trek, heading to the Saddle, which is a barren, high altitude desert area situated between the thin peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. Overnight at Kibo Hut (4703ft, 15450m).

Day 6: Start for the summit in the early hours of the morning. It takes more than 5 hrs to reach Gilman's point (18640ft, 5683m) the highest point in Africa. After a short period at the summit, return back to Horombo Hut. Dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 7: Descend to Marangu gate. Dinner and overnight at the Marangu Hotel.

Day 8: Return to Kilimanjaro Airport for flight overseas or back to Nairobi.

There are of course, many other routes up the mountain and for the experienced mountain climber, Marangu Hotel is happy to arrange personalized itineraries.