The Marangu Route is one of the most well-established and easiest trekking paths on Mount Kilimanjaro, often chosen for its gradual slope and direct approach. This makes it a popular option for climbers, particularly those looking for a less technically demanding route to the summit. As the oldest and most established route, it is commonly referred to as the "Coca-Cola" route due to its accessibility and comfort compared to other paths on the mountain.
What sets the Marangu Route apart is its unique feature of dormitory-style sleeping huts, available at each camp along the way. These huts, which are not found on other Kilimanjaro routes, are equipped with basic amenities such as mattresses and pillows, though climbers are still required to bring their own sleeping bags. The huts also provide communal dining halls, basic washrooms, and toilets, offering a level of comfort that makes the trek more enjoyable compared to camping in tents..
For those looking for a better chance of acclimatization, a 6-day Marangu Route trek is recommended. This extended time frame allows for a more gradual ascent, giving the body more time to adjust to the increasing altitude, which significantly boosts the likelihood of reaching the summit successfully.
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.
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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