Marangu Route 6 Days
From
Duration
Overview
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola” route, is one of the most popular and accessible paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is favored for its comfortable mountain huts with solar lighting, making it a good choice for climbers who prefer less camping and more convenience.
Starting at Marangu Gate (1,870 meters/6,135 feet), the trek covers about 72 kilometers (45 miles) round trip and takes you through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, culminating at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet). The gradual ascent helps with acclimatization, contributing to a higher success rate of around 80%.
Key highlights include:
- Comfortable Huts: Stay in well-maintained huts throughout the trek.
- Scenic Beauty: Experience diverse landscapes and breathtaking views.
- Summit Sunrise: Witness the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi and the Rift Valley.
With its well-developed infrastructure and moderate difficulty, the Marangu Route offers a straightforward and rewarding climb. However, climbers should be prepared and fit to tackle the challenges of Africa’s highest peak.
Included/Exclude
- 5 nights of mountain accommodation
- All transportation, including airport pick-up and drop-off
- All park entrance fees
- Professional English-speaking Mountain guide and chef
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Mineral water for all days
- All mentioned activities
- Government taxes and 18% VAT
- Government-imposed increases in entry fees
- Rescue fees
- Pre- and post-program accommodation for 2 nights
- Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bags, mattress, hiking poles, gaiters, mess table, and chairs)
- Porterage
- International flights (from/to home)
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Tips (starting from $20 USD per person per day for the mountain guide)
- Kilimanjaro hiking equipment (if not provided)
- Internal flights
- Tips (starting from $10 USD per person per day for porters)
- Tips (starting from $15-20 USD per person per day for the chef/cook)
- Tips (starting from $20-0 USD per person per day for the Guide
Tour Plan
Collection from Kilimanjaro airport and transfer to Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha, located close to the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, you will have a climb briefing and time to prepare for your adventure. Overnight at Gold Crest Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.
After breakfast and a brief orientation, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (approx. 2 hours). Register and begin your climb. Trek through the lush rainforest to the Mandara Hut, and enjoy a side trip to Maundi Crater for stunning views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. As you walk, look out for towering eucalyptus trees, vibrant birdlife, and playful Colobus monkeys.
- Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
- Distance: 8km/5mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals: LD
Depart from the rainforest and ascend onto the open moorlands. Enjoy panoramic views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The trail reveals giant lobelias and groundsels, and you may begin to feel the effects of altitude.
- Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
- Distance: 12km/7.5mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Heathland
- Meals: BLD
Continue your ascent past the last watering point onto the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The landscape transforms into a “moonscape” of alpine desert. Settle in at Kibo Hut for dinner and rest, preparing for the summit climb.
- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
- Distance: 9km/5.5mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: BLD
Start your ascent to the summit in the early hours (midnight to 2 am). Navigate through steep scree or snow to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and bask in the breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views. After taking in the sights, descend to Kibo for lunch and then continue to Horombo Hut for the night. This climb is challenging, requiring headlamps, warm layers, and determination, but the reward is unparalleled.
- Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: BLD
- Budget Lodging: Horombo Hut
Repeat the summit climb from Kibo Hut in the early morning (midnight to 2 am), traversing steep scree or snow to Gilman’s Point and then to Uhuru Peak. Marvel at the incredible views and capture your achievement with photos. Descend back to Kibo for lunch and then proceed to Horombo Hut. Prepare for a challenging ascent, and embrace the scenic beauty at every turn.
- Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: BLD
- Budget Lodging: Horombo Hut
Descend steadily from Horombo Hut through moorland to Mandara Hut. Continue through lush forest to the Marangu Gate. At lower elevations, be prepared for wet and muddy conditions. Gaiters and trekking poles will be useful, and lighter clothing will be sufficient. Our vehicle will transfer you from Marangu to Arusha.
- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
- Distance: 20km/12.5mi
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals: B
After your trek, relax and enjoy the final day in Arusha. We will drop you off at the airport or your accommodation for departure.
Note: You can Extend your adventure with a thrilling safari! Choose from 1-3 extra days or a longer 4–7-day exploration to immerse yourself in Tanzania's breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. Enhance your journey and make every moment unforgettable!
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