The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the oldest, most well established route on Kilimanjaro. This is the only route which 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.
Day by Day Itinerary
Kilimanjaro National park to Mandara Hut
Marangu Gate (1980m) - Mandara hut (2700m) Hiking time: 5 hours | Distance: About 12 km's | Habitat: Montane forest.
After B/fast, Drive from Arusha to Kilimanjaro Marangu National Park gate. The journey passes through the village of Marangu, which is located on the lower slopes of the mountain. Once you reach the park gate, all hikers are requested to sign in at the Park office and make their final preparations for the climb. Make sure that you have all your day pack items (containing at least drinking water, your lunch pack and extra clothing) with you as the porters ascend a lot quicker than the hikers. Our guides will be available to assist with any additional information or needs you might have. Picnic lunch, Dinner and Overnight at Mandara Hut 2700m. (Full Board).
Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Mandara hut (2700m) - Horombo hut (3720m) Hiking time: 6 hours | Distance: About 15 km's | Habitat: Moorland.
After B/fast, Continue your climb passing through a short stretch of forest, then skirt the base of the Maundi Crater and then emerge into the transition from rainforest to moorland. It is well worth a short detour to scramble up the rim of the Maundi Crater for your first really impressive view of the Kibo Crater. B/fast, Lunch, Dinner and Overnight at Horombo Hut 3700m. (Full Board).
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Horombo hut (3720m) - Kibo hut (4700m) Hiking time: 6 hours | Distance: About 15 km's | Habitat: Alpine desert.
After breakfast you now continue your ascent into the Alpine desert habitat. From Horombo there are two trails to the "Saddle" (which refers to the area located between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo). There is an upper route (right hand fork) and lower route (left hand fork) to choose from. B/fast, Picnic lunch, Dinner and rest till 23h30.
Kibo Hut to Summit then Horombo Hut
Summit Attempt, Kibo hut (4700m) - Uhuru Peak (5895m) - Horombo hut (3720m). Hiking time: 8 hours to Uhuru - 6 hours to descend to Horombo | Distance: 6 km's ascent - 21 km's descent | Habitat: Stone screen and ice-capped summit.
You will rise around 23h30, you shuffle off into the night. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman's point (5681m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great physical and mental effort. Probably the most demanding section of the entire route. Do the Kili shuffle and move slowly. From Gillman’s Point you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Total exhilaration and satisfaction - you made it. The total time spent walking on this day is around 13 - 14 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day. Evening overnight Horombo Hut (3700m).
Horombo Hut then to Moshi/Arusha/JRO
After breakfast you continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate. At Marangu gate you sign your name and details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Our Vehicle and Driver will be waiting for you to transfer you back to Moshi/Arusha
WHAT'S
- Accommodation as per the itinerary
- Professional Mountain guide
- Professional mountain cook
- Transfer to and from the mountain gate
- All Park entrance fees
- Rescue fees
- Porter’s allowance
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinking water on all days
WHAT'S
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tipping
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE.....
8 Days Lemosho Route
enquire this tour Mount Kilimanjaro is approached from the west on this route. It provides…
Read MoreReady to plan your trip?
Testimonials
What do our clients say
We only had 2 days for the safari and a very limited budget. Thanks to David and his team, we got a lot of positive emotions, saw a lot of animals in Tarangire and Arusha National Parks (including 4 of the big 5) and just had a great time. Many thanks to Sia who turned out to be a very professional good guide, good driver and just a good guy. I recommend Kili Slope to everyone.
It was the best experience so far. We met David and he helped us with a lot of informations. Kili Slope and tours is the best agency, Jackson ,the driver, is very kind and professional.I sent my request to at least 10 agencies but I chose Kili Slope. We changed several times the dates, the schedule because of the pandemic but everything went well. I would highly recommend it.
David was instrumental in ensuring that every details of our 4 day itinerary was looked after with professionalism. Everything went as planned. Thanks to Our driver Stuart, who was knowledgeable, familiar with the landscape; we saw the big 5. The accomodations were all very good. I Strongly recommend them for your next safari. Asante Sana guys!
