Mandara Hut is the first main mountain camp on the Marangu Route, located at approximately 2,720 metres (8,924 ft) above sea level. Surrounded by lush montane forest, it provides a peaceful overnight stop after the first day of trekking, trekkers can relax, enjoy the mountain environment, and explore the nearby Maundi Crater viewpoint when conditions allow. The camp is an important transition point as the landscape gradually changes from dense rainforest toward the open moorland higher on Kilimanjaro.