Marangu Route Climb Kilimanjaro along the Marangu Route
Are you looking for a classic ascent and a comfortable trek up Kilimanjaro? Known as the Coca-Cola route, the Marangu route is the oldest and most established route, offering a gentle trek through beautiful rainforest and stunning alpine meadows. The route is the only one that offers accommodation in huts, equipped with bunk beds and with communal dining areas and toilets.
DAY 1: From Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
The hike takes you through the lush rainforest section of the mountain. The trail is well-maintained and gradually ascends through the beautiful scenery of the forest. Along the way, you may encounter various types of vegetation, including moss-covered trees, ferns, and different species of plants and flowers. You also have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as monkeys and birds. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Mandara Hut.
DAY 2: From Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
As you leave Mandara Hut, you will continue ascending through the forest for a while before reaching the heath and moorland vegetation. The trail becomes steeper and the landscape changes, with open spaces and more sparse vegetation. Along this section, you will have scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Horombo Hut.
DAY 3: From Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
The hike now takes you from the moorland zone to the alpine desert and eventually to the barren, rocky slopes near the summit. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged as you ascend. You will pass through the 'Saddle', a relatively flat area between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo (Uhuru), which offers vast and breathtaking views. The landscape becomes increasingly barren and rocky, with less vegetation and more scree and loose gravel. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Kibo Hut.
DAY 4: From Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak - and from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
The final push to Uhuru Peak will begin around midnight and involves ascending via the Kibo Crater, providing a distinctive viewpoint and a close encounter with the dormant volcanic caldera. The rugged alpine desert terrain of the crater, coupled with the demanding journey to the summit, ensures a thrilling and unforgettable adventure.
After 6-7 hours of climbing, you will reach Gilman's Point, located on the crater rim at an altitude of 5,681 meters / 18,638 feet. From here, you will pass Stella Point and ultimately reach Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Mount Kilimanjaro. Revel in the stunning vistas and capture lasting memories to mark your accomplishment.
After celebrating, you will begin the descent back to Kibo Hut for lunch. From there, you continue further to Horombo Hut where you can rest, recover, and spend the night.
DAY 5: From Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
You begin your descent through the moorland, passing through the unique and diverse landscapes. You will experience changing vegetation, from heath and moorland to the lush rainforest. The trail offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment as you make your way back to the starting point of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Lunch will be served at a stopping point on the route, providing a place to rest.
Explore Mount Meru, and the other routes for climbing Kilimanjaro, Machame, Lemosho, Umbwe, Rongai, and Northern Circuit, as well - or take a look at the overview of which mountain route to choose.
MARANGU ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Marangu Route can be completed in 5 or 6 days. If you choose to do the climb in 6 days, you will stay two nights at Horombo Hut on your way to the summit.
SUMMIT SUCCES RATE: 90
ACCLIMATIZATION: Good
DIFFICULTY: Easy
On the morning of day 1, you will check out of the hotel and be picked up by us. We will of course take care of storing your belongings while you are on the mountain. Together, we drive to the Marangu Gate, which takes about 1 hour from Moshi. After registering at the gate, you are ready to start climbing Kilimanjaro along the Marangu route.
DAY 1:
From Marangu Gate at 1970 m / 6463 ft to Mandara Hut at 2720 m / 8924 ft - 8 km. Hiking duration: 5-6 hours
DAY 2:
From Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut at 3720 m / 12205 ft - 11 km. Hiking duration: 6-7 hours
DAY 3:
From Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut at 4720 m /15486 ft - 9 km. Hiking duration: 6-7 hours
DAY 4 - 'SUMMIT NIGHT':
From Kibo Hut to Uruhu Peak at 5895 m / 19341 ft - and from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut - 21 km. Hiking duration: 11 hours
DAY 5:
From Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate at 1970 m / 6400 ft - 20 km. Hiking duration: 5 hours
Km in total 69
Upon arrival at the gate, you will be rewarded with your certificate, issued by Kilimanjaro National Park, stating your successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro along the Marangu route.
Lunch will be served in a village between Marangu Gate where the Marangu route ends and Moshi. Back in our office, you will get back your belongings before we take you to your hotel or the airport.
The Marangu Route is for you who
are looking for a less technical climb
prefer a more comfortable trekking experience
want to climb Kilimanjaro without camping
What is the Best Time of Year to Trek the Marangu Route?
The best time to trek the Marangu route is during the dry seasons, typically from June to October, and from December to February.
What Kind of Training or Preparation is Recommended for the Marangu Route?
Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, hiking on hilly terrain, while gradually increasing backpack weight, is recommended to prepare for the Marangu route.
More information
Do you want to climb Kilimanjaro along the Marangu Route? Go to our FAQ section for information about booking, prices, briefings, equipment checks, safety, acclimatization and much more.
Do you want to know even more? If yes, explore the exciting history of Mount Kilimanjaro.
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