Overview
The Marangu route, famously known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the most oldest well established route on Kilimanjaro. It is the only route which accomodates climbers in huts instead of camping. There are adequate bunks in Mandara, Horombo and Kibo. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. Marangu route is one of the easiest path on the mountain, for its gradual slope and direct path. However, the short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization fairly difficult. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. However, this route is less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent are along the same path. It is also tends to be most crowded route.
Elevation: 1860 m to 2700 m / 6100 ft to 8875 ft
Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Description:
After breakfast you will drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1 hour), register and commence the climb. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment. A side trip to Maundi Crater is a good way to see the surroundings including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, bird life, and Colobus monkeys.
Elevation: 2,700 m to 3,700 m / 8,875 ft to 12,200 ft
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Description:
Today, we emerge from the rain forest and continue to ascend through heathland, the view of giant lobelias and groundsels can be seen around. Then we continue up to moorlands where the main vegetation are small shrubs. We stop for lunch in the mid of the day while viewing an amazing of Mawenzi peak. We set todays destination at the Horombo Huts on a late afternoon. A spectacular view Kibo Summit is seen from this camp.
Elevation: 3,700 m to 4,700 m / 12,200ft to 15,500 ft
Distance: 9 km / 5.5 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Description:
We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m/ 15,500ft to 19,340ft
Down: 3,700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6 km / 4 mi (ascent) + 15 km / 9 mi (descent)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours (ascent) + 5–7 hours (descent)
Habitat: Arctic summit to Moorland
Description:
Around midnight, we begin our trail up to the summit. This is the most challenging part of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), magnificent sunrise will be coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Elevation: 3,700 m to 1,843 m / 12,200 ft to 6,046 ft /
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 mi
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Habitat: Moorland to Montane Forest
Description:
A long but rewarding descent awaits. You’ll retrace your steps through heath and moorland, then re-enter the lush rainforest as you approach the Marangu Gate. Once at the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to hotel for a hot shower and well-earned rest.
INCLUDES
All park fees (camping fees, concession fees, entrance fees, & rescue fee)
Accommodations 2 nights before and after the trek
All government Taxes
Trekking Crew (Porters, Cook and professional guide)
Camping equipment’s (Tents, Mattress, Chairs, & Tables)
Private Toilets
Meals & Drinking water
EXCLUDES
Tipping’s for the crew
Personal Items (Visa, Souvenirs, Passport etc.)
Flights
5 Day Marangu Route
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Group Size: 2–12 climbers
