05 Days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

Marangu Route

The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the oldest, most well-established route on Kilimanjaro. This is the only route that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations in lieu of camping.

There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut.
Many favor Marangu because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given 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. Marangu is unfortunately less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent are along the same path. It is also the most crowded route for that reason.

  • Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Departure Location: Marangu Gate, Kilimanjaro
  • Return Location: Marangu Gate, Kilimanjaro

Day 1

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
We depart Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. At the upper edge of the forest line, we have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.
  • Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
  • Distance: 8 km/5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Rain Forest

Day 2

 Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

We start the day continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. We may get our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks – two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.

  • Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
  • Distance: 12 km/7 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Heath

Day 3

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

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 (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
  • Distance: 10 km/6 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion 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), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see 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 (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
  • Distance: 6 km/4 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

  • Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft
  • Distance: 16 km/10 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Heath

Day 5

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

  • Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
  • Distance: 20 km/12 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: RainForest
  • INCLUDED
  • Guides and Porters: Experienced guides to lead the climb and ensure safety. Porters to carry equipment, supplies, and a portion of your personal gear.
  • Park Fees and Permits: Fees for entering Kilimanjaro National Park and necessary permits
  • Meals and Accommodation: All meals during the climb, typically including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags) or accommodation in mountain huts.
  • Safety Equipment: Necessary safety equipment, such as first aid kits and, in some cases, oxygen.
  • Transfers: Transportation to and from the airport or specified meeting point.
  • Briefings and Orientation: Pre-climb briefings and orientations to provide essential information about the climb.
  • Summit Certificates: Certificates confirming your successful summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • EXCLUDED
  • Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Tanzania.
  • Personal Gear: Your personal climbing gear, including clothing, boots, and other specific items.
  • Insurance: Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation.
  • Tips: Tips for guides, porters, and other staff. Tipping is a customary practice on Kilimanjaro.
  • Additional Accommodations: Accommodations before and after the climb, especially if you arrive early or stay longer.
  • Altitude Medications: Any necessary medications for altitude sickness. Consult with a healthcare professional.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional items not specified in the package.
  • Optional Excursions: Side trips or optional excursions not included in the main climbing itinerary.
  • Visa Fees: Visa fees for entry into Tanzania, if applicable.

5 Days Marangu Route

From: $ 1,598

05 Days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

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Solo, Couple, Family, Group of travelers.