The Marangu Route, often referred to as the "Coca-Cola" route, is the most well-established and one of the easiest trekking paths on Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is favored for its gradual slope and direct approach, making it a popular choice among climbers. However, despite its reputation as the easiest route, it remains challenging, with a notable failure rate due to improper preparation and premature attempts. This has led the Kilimanjaro National Park (KINAPA) officials to implement stricter measures for climbers attempting this route.
5-day trek on the Marangu Route balances the need for a reasonably quick ascent with practical considerations,
but it also makes acclimatization challenging, leading to higher failure rates for unprepared climbers.
It’s a suitable choice for those looking for a shorter.
After breakfast, you will be collected from your lodge in Moshi and taken to the Marangu gate. Once the necessary paper work has been completed, your trek can begin and you will soon be hiking through the dense rainforest. Alongside the impressive vegetation, you will have the chance to catch a glimpse of some primates as you head to the Mandara Hut. After a well-earned rest, your guide can take you to the Maundi Crater where you can enjoy the wonderful view of the Kenyan interior.
The day begins with an early breakfast. Shortly after you have left Mandara Hut, you will reach the timberline and then enter the heath and moor zone. Approximately 4 – 6 hours later, the Horombo Hut will come into sight, standing at an altitude of 3700m. From the hut, you will have fantastic views overlooking Mawenzi, Kibo and the wide plain of the Masai steppe.
Today’s stage is long and tough. The well-built trail passes the “Last Water point” which is followed by the so-called “saddle”. This nearly vegetation less plateau joins the main summit Kibo with Mawenzi. Today’s destination is the Kibo Hut that is usually reached in about 5 - 6 hours. Here, you will enjoy an early evening meal followed by an early night, as the night will be short.
Today is “The Big Day” - the summit stage. You will begin your final ascent around midnight which will be long and strenuous. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave at 5220m, the climb slowly but surely goes upwards. At sunrise, you will reach Gillman’s Point (5681m) – the crater rim of Kilimanjaro – where the sun will slowly start to warm up the land. You will have soon forgotten the cold of the night and after a further hike of 1 - 2 hours, you will reach Uhuru Peak at 5895m. On your return to Kibo Hut, a warm meal awaits you followed by a 1 - 2 hour break before proceeding back down to Horombo Hut.
The last stage passes through the heath and moor zone to the Mandara Hut (2700m) where a warm lunch is waiting for you. Soon, you will once again pass the tropical rainforest and after a total time of 6 hours trekking, you will be back at the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (1860m). After saying goodbye to your mountain guides, a short transfer follows to take you back to your hotel in Moshi. Once there, you can take a warm
and relaxing shower and celebrate your success in reaching the summit of the Kilimanjaro.
*Actual times may vary based on traffic, your walking pace, and weather conditions and they may be adjusted based on seasons. Your guide may choose a different route based on conditions or adjust the schedule based on any altitude symptoms you are experiencing.
Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro Airport,
2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
Transport to and from Moshi to the trail head
Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees, rescue fees and Value Added Tax (VAT)
Expert guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
Bottled oxygen, for emergency rescue only
Private toilet
Four season mountain tents,
Sleeping pad, foam, 1.5 inches thick
Mess tents, tables, chairs, lanterns
Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain
Breakfast at hotel
Airfare
Lunch or dinner at hotel
Beverages at hotel
Personal gear and equipment
Tips
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