Marangu Route – 6 Days Trekking

Safari Overview

The Marangu Route is one of the popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It’s often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route because it is considered one of the easier routes, and amenities such as sleeping huts with beds and dining halls are available along the way. However, it’s important to note that no route up Kilimanjaro is easy, as altitude sickness and other challenges can affect climbers.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Start at the Marangu Gate (1,860 meters/6,102 feet)
Hike to Mandara Hut (2,700 meters/8,858 feet)
Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles)
Duration: 4-6 hours

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Continue hiking from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Gain significant altitude
Altitude: Mandara Hut (2,700 meters/8,858 feet) to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters/12,205 feet)
Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles)
Duration: 6-8 hours

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

This day is used for acclimatization
You can do short hikes around the area to aid acclimatization
It's important to stay hydrated and rest

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Hike from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
This leg of the journey involves climbing the "Saddle," the wide plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks
Altitude: Horombo Hut (3,720 meters/12,205 feet) to Kibo Hut (4,703 meters/15,430 feet)
Distance: Approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles)
Duration: 6-8 hours

Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and back to Horombo Hut

Start very early (usually around midnight) to make the summit attempt
Reach Gilman's Point (5,681 meters/18,638 feet), the crater rim
Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa
Descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest
Then continue descending to Horombo Hut
Altitude: Kibo Hut (4,703 meters/15,430 feet) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet) and back down to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters/12,205 feet)
Distance: Approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) ascent, 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) descent
Duration: 11-15 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Sign-out with the authorities and receive your summit certificate
Transfer back to your accommodation
Altitude: Horombo Hut (3,720 meters/12,205 feet) to Marangu Gate (1,860 meters/6,102 feet)
Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles)
Duration: 5-7 hours

This itinerary allows for proper acclimatization, increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit while minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. However, it’s essential to remember that altitude affects everyone differently, and it’s crucial to listen to your body and the advice of your guides throughout the climb.

Include and Exclude

What is Included

  • Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
  • Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
  • Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
  • Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
  • Airport Transfers
  • Meals according to the itinerary
  • Drinking water and Full Board meals
  • All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
  • Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
  • Gate Transfers
  • Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
  • Portable Private Toilet and Porter
  • Quality Imported Equipments

What is not Included

  • Flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel  or Medical Insurance  is required and you should ask for Recommendation
  • Gamow Bag
  • Medication
  • Tips for porters and mountain crew (20% Industry Standard Recommended)
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
  • Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
  • Additional lodge nights if early decent from the mountain $150 per room

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