On a day hike up Kilimanjaro Marangu, one ascends to the first camp Mandara hut (2720m) and returns that same day using the same route. The travel from Moshi Town is around 45 km and takes one hour. To obtain a valid permit to begin the walk, you must register at the Marangu gate and pay the park admission charge. The distance to Mandara Hut is 8 miles (16 km round trip) from Marangu Gate, which is 1879 metres above sea level. It will take 3 to 4 hours in each way.