6 Days
Marangu Route
Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu Route also Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, the Marangu route is a classic trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the oldest, most well-established route. Many favour the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope. It is also the only route that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations.
The minimum days required for Mount Kilimanjaro, on this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended when climbing Kilimanjaro using the Marangu route.
Itinerary
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
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.
This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut.
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.
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.
Includes
- Airport Pick up and drop off
- Full Board on Safari
- All transport in designed safari vehicle 4x4WD with a pop up roof for maximum game viewing comfort with a professional English speaking driver/guide.
- All park entrance fees
Excludes
- Additional meals, drinks, optional activities
- International / regional flights
- Visas and requirements where necessary
- Premium Drinks at Fully Inclusive Mobile Safari
- Gratuities and items of a personal nature (curios, gifts, etc)
- Personal medical or travel insurances
- Airport Pick up and drop off
- Full Board on Safari
- All transport in designed safari vehicle 4x4WD with a pop up roof for maximum game viewing comfort with a professional English speaking driver/guide.
- All park entrance fees
- Additional meals, drinks, optional activities
- International / regional flights
- Visas and requirements where necessary
- Premium Drinks at Fully Inclusive Mobile Safari
- Gratuities and items of a personal nature (curios, gifts, etc)
- Personal medical or travel insurances