6-Day Marangu Route - Kilimanjaro Trekking Route

My friend and I booked a trip to climb Kilimanjaro short notice. We had originally thought that we wouldn't be able to due to online information about the rainy season but found out that it was possible when we arrived. Eduu was able to quickly organise a climb that fit into our elective plans and was amazing at helping us find affordable quality rental gear (I had almost nothing as I was not expecting to climb). The route itself was day 1 to Mandara, day 2 to Horombo, day 3 to Kibu, midnight of day 3 summit with descent on day 4 to Horombo after a short nap and descent to the gate on day 5. Walking through the different terrains is wonderful and I have to recommend watching the stars at night as they were incredible. For me I found it physically doable despite the fact my last real exercise was 3 years ago and I have no real mountaineering experience. The style was "pole pole" which means slowly slowly. You walk at a glacial pace, slowing for any steep sections, which eats up the miles but leaving you feeling like you are always only slightly exerting. The altitude was a struggle for me especially on summit day where we had ascended 2000m in about 24 hours. Even with the retching and feeling generally terrible for the summit it was incredibly worth it. Our guides Mrope and Richie were amazing and I would definitely recommend them! I would also recommend asking Eduu for help understanding the tipping conventions. The whole team were lovely and I think the only thing I would change is that the food was variable, although the altitude didn't help my appetite.