Article Hike under Mawenzi

The first acclimatization ascent

Petr Liška
Wrote 2420 articles and follows him / her 243 travelers
Inserted: 30.11.2016
© gigaplaces.com

After reaching the Horombo Huts camp and a short rest, it is ideal to go on an acclimatization hike below the peak of Mawenzi. At the same time, it is a very nice route – better than the previous two stages from Marangu Gate. On this journey you will fully enjoy the view of the monumental volcano Kibo, the highest part of Kilimanjaro. Achieved altitude of over 4,500 meters above sea level will help you for more days.

Mawenzi and lobelia

From Horombo huts, head almost directly north. The exit route is very clear, although of course narrower than the main highway. Officially, this trail connects the routes of Marangu and Mawenzi. There are a lot of lobelias growing around the Horombo camp. The view through them on Mawenzi is very nice.

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Zebra Rocks

The first official stop on this short acclimatization tour is the Zebra Rocks.

Author: Jiří Smitka © gigaplaces.com

A small desert

After less than an hour and a half march from Horombo hut, come to a place where there is a sandy plain with islands of green vegetation.

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View of Kibo

After another 20 minutes of walking, you will finally climb the view of the mighty Kibo. It is also beautiful to see the famous, now quite miniature glacier. The huge wasteland between Kib and Mawenzi is simply called „The Saddle“. In these places the road splits. Alternatively, you can continue to Kibu, or descend to Lake Mawenzi Tarn (but this is a different route), or continue for a while to acclimatize the ascent.

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Road to Mawenzi

The road is still slowly rising and the slope of Mawenzi Castle is getting closer and closer. As comfortable as the way to it, the final ascent is definitely not touristy. Sharp vertical volcanic rocks rise above the rubble slopes.

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Mawenzi hut

The trip and the journey end at the jagged rocks, where there is also a tin shed – Mawenzi hut. But you won't meet any people here anymore. If there was more time, it would be possible to get higher in the tourist area, but if you previously went classic gravel to Horomba, you will have something to do to get back from there in the light.

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Sunset over Mawenzi

Back to the Horombo huts camp, the exact same journey awaits you. However, it goes down significantly faster. You can also enjoy a beautiful sunset that will color Mawenzi doruda

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Inversion under Kilimanjaro

After less than four hours, you are back in the Horombo huts camp. You can enjoy the wonderful inversion below you and rejoice that the camp is already above the clouds.

Author: © gigaplaces.com
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