Marangu 5 Day Route
Reach New Heights: Conquer Kilimanjaro with Comfort and Confidence on the Marangu Route with Kilitop Safaris.
- Kilimanjaro
Tour Overview.
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is known for being the only route on Mount Kilimanjaro with hut accommodations, making it a preferred choice for those looking for a shorter, less demanding climb. This 5-day trek with Kilitop Safaris offers a scenic journey through lush rainforests, unique alpine meadows, and volcanic landscapes, ending at the summit with breathtaking views of the sunrise over the African plains.
The Marangu Route’s 5-day itinerary allows climbers to ascend gradually through the forest, heather, and moorland zones up to the stark alpine desert. The route’s gentle slopes, well-maintained paths, and moderate altitude gain make it suitable for beginner to intermediate climbers seeking an accessible yet challenging experience.
Route Highlights
- Scenic Landscapes: Traverse Kilimanjaro’s diverse climates, from tropical rainforest to alpine desert.
- Summit Success: An early morning summit push to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, with the iconic view of the sun rising over the plains below.
- Hut Accommodations: Unlike other routes, Marangu has mountain huts, providing a more comfortable shelter.
- Bird and Wildlife Watching: Spot rare birds and other animals in Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest.
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi to Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- After a short briefing and gear check in Moshi, transfer to Marangu Gate (1,870m).
- Begin the trek through lush rainforest, with chances to spot colobus monkeys.
- Reach Mandara Hut (2,720m) and explore the nearby Maundi Crater for beautiful views.
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Continue trekking through the heather and moorland zones with striking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
- Arrive at Horombo Hut (3,700m), where you’ll spend the night in the alpine zone.
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Ascend further through the semi-desert area, moving toward Kibo Hut (4,700m) at the foot of Kibo Crater.
- Prepare for an early morning summit push with a rest and briefing from the guides.
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Begin the final summit trek at midnight, reaching Gillman’s Point at sunrise and then moving along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Kilimanjaro’s highest point.
- After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Horombo Hut.
- Hiking time: 10-14 hours (summit and descent)
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Moshi
- Descend through the rainforest back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll collect your certificate.
- Transfer to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Include and Not- Included
What’s Included
- Professional Guide: Certified guides with extensive experience on Kilimanjaro.
- Porters and Support Staff: Knowledgeable porters to carry equipment and assist trekkers.
- All Meals on the Mountain: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with snacks, prepared by a mountain cook.
- Camping Equipment: Quality tents, sleeping mats, and camping chairs for comfort.
- Park Fees: All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, including camping and rescue fees.
- Transport: Transfers from your hotel in Moshi/Arusha to the starting point and back.
What’s Not Included
- Personal Climbing Gear: Clothing, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and other personal items.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for emergency evacuation and medical support.
- Tips for the Crew: Gratitude for guides, porters, and cooks (generally budget around $200 per trekker).
- Visa Fees: Tanzanian visa fees for international travelers.
With Kilitop safaris, this 5-day Marangu Route experience offers a well-planned trek with stunning scenery, comfortable accommodations, and the best chance to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit safely. Whether a first-time climber or seasoned hiker, this route provides a memorable journey through Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.