7-Days Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is one of the most popular and oldest routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is unique because it is the only one that provides mountain huts for accommodation instead of tents, offering a more comfortable experience. The route starts and ends at Marangu Gate, making it a straightforward climb, with the ascent and descent following the same path. Though considered the easiest route, it requires good physical fitness and is most suitable for experienced climbers due to the significant altitude gain. The 8-day itinerary includes a 5-day ascent with an additional acclimatization day to increase the chances of successfully reaching the summit.
| Included |
- Transfers from Arusha to Marangu Gate and back
- Park entry fees and camping fees
- Hut accommodations
- Professional guide, cook, and porters
- All meals on the mountain
- Rescue fees
- Certificate of completion
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| Excluded |
- ExcludedFlights to/from Tanzania
- Personal gear and clothing
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for crew (recommended $20-$30/day)
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Details
The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola" route, is one of the most popular and oldest routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is unique because it is the only one that provides mountain huts for accommodation instead of tents, offering a more comfortable experience.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. You will have the rest of the day to relax and prepare for your climb. You’ll also have a briefing with your guide to discuss the climb and safety procedures.
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Marangu Gate to start your climb. The trek begins in the lush rainforest and takes you to Mandara Hut, located at an altitude of 2,700 meters. The hike will take around 4-5 hours, and you’ll encounter various plant species and possibly some wildlife along the way. Once at Mandara Hut, you'll have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment.
The trek from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut takes around 6-7 hours. As you gain altitude, the forest gives way to more open moorland and alpine vegetation. The trail is steady, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks as you make your way to Horombo Hut. Here, you’ll stay overnight and begin the acclimatization process.
Today’s climb takes you from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut, situated at 4,700 meters. The hike is more strenuous as you enter the alpine desert zone, where the air gets thinner and the landscape becomes more barren. The hike takes around 6-7 hours. Kibo Hut will be your base for the final ascent. Here, you’ll prepare for the summit climb the following day and get some rest.
You’ll start your summit climb around midnight, trekking from Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak. The climb will take approximately 7-9 hours as you ascend steep and challenging terrain. Once you reach the summit, you’ll have time to take in the spectacular views from the "Roof of Africa" before descending to Horombo Hut. After reaching Horombo, you’ll rest for the night.
After breakfast, you’ll begin your descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. This descent takes around 5-6 hours, passing through the lush rainforest once again. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you’ll be awarded your summit certificate, and your guide will arrange a transfer back to your hotel.
After your successful climb, you can either choose to depart or extend your adventure with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar. Either way, you'll have time to reflect on your incredible achievement and unwind after an unforgettable journey.
