The Marangu Route, affectionately known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the oldest and one of the most beloved paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This historic trail follows the footsteps of Hans Meyer, the first successful climber to reach Kilimanjaro's peak in 1889. As you ascend, you'll journey through the diverse climatic zones of Kilimanjaro National Park, from lush tropical rainforests to the stark beauty of alpine deserts.
One of the key features of the Marangu Route is its unique accommodation: dormitory-style huts. These huts provide a dry and comfortable resting place, making Marangu the preferred route during Kilimanjaro's rainy seasons, which run from mid-March to late May, and from late October to late December.
Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route 6day Trek 8day Tour - Request for a free quote, sent direct to your e-mail address
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), an Mropean Safaris representative will meet you and facilitate your transfer to your hotel. The hotel offers a comfortable stay with cozy rooms, hot showers, friendly service, a swimming pool, and internet access. In the evening, there will be a briefing with our team to ensure you're fully prepared for the climb ahead.
Please Note: Check-in begins at 2:00 PM. Shared airport transfers are included in private tour packages, while additional charges apply for individual transfers. To avoid extra costs, it’s advisable to coordinate your group’s arrival and departure times.
After a morning briefing with your guide and support team at the hotel, you’ll be driven to Marangu Gate (1,970m/6,462ft), the eastern entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park. Once climbing permits are secured and registration with search and rescue services is completed, you’ll begin your trek to Mandara Hut (2,720m/8,922ft).
The trail passes through a tropical rainforest, where rain is common, so we recommend bringing a raincoat. Upon arrival at Mandara Hut, lunch will be served, and your hut for the night will be assigned.
Important Tips: This is your first day at higher altitude. It's crucial to:
-Drink over 4 liters of water daily, in small, frequent sips.
-Consider taking altitude sickness prevention medication, especially in the morning before the trek. Consult your doctor prior to the trip to discuss any health concerns.
-You may experience symptoms of acclimatization such as nausea and headaches, especially at night. Inform your guide if you notice any symptoms.
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 11 km
After an early breakfast, you’ll set out on a moderate trek towards Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,204ft). Upon reaching the camp, you’ll be rewarded with views of Kilimanjaro's volcanic peaks, Kibo and Mawenzi.
In the afternoon, you’ll undertake an acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut, gaining 200m/656ft in altitude before returning to Horombo Hut for dinner. This acclimatization hike is essential to improve your chances of reaching the summit and minimizing the effects of altitude sickness.
Acclimatization Hike:
-Elevation Change: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,204ft) to 3,920m/12,861ft
-Hiking Distance: 2.5 km
-Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Main Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 10 km
Today is dedicated to acclimatization at Horombo Hut. After breakfast, you’ll embark on another acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut, climbing to 4,500m/14,763ft before returning to camp.
The rest of the day is yours to explore the area, take photos of Mawenzi Volcano, or simply relax and rest up for the upcoming ascent to Kibo Hut.
Acclimatization Hike:
-Elevation Change: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,205ft) to 4,500m/14,763ft
-Hiking Distance: 5-8 km
-Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, the group will trek to Kibo Hut (4,720m/15,482ft). The trail itself is not overly challenging, but it's important to maintain a steady pace to conserve energy for the final push to the summit. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, lunch will be served, and you'll have the rest of the day to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the night’s summit attempt.
Trekking Time: 4-8 hours
Distance: 10 km
The summit attempt begins at midnight as you depart from Kibo Hut (4,720m/15,482ft) to climb to Kilimanjaro's highest point—Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,336ft). While the trail is not technically difficult, the altitude makes the climb strenuous. Each pair of climbers will be accompanied by a guide who will monitor your physical condition and provide support and encouragement.
After successfully reaching Uhuru Peak, you can descend to a nearby glacier if desired before returning to Kibo Hut for a short rest. The day concludes with a descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,202ft).
Please Note: The majority of accidents occur during the descent, so take extra care with each step to avoid injuries.
Trekking Time: 9-12 hours
Distance: 16 km
After a warm breakfast, you’ll begin the final descent to Marangu Gate (1,970m/6,462ft). At the gate, you’ll be presented with your well-earned certificates and have the opportunity to leave your feedback in the guestbook. Finally, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 18 km
Enjoy a relaxing morning at the hotel before your transfer to the airport for your departure.
Please Note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. If your flight is later in the day, you may extend your stay at the hotel for an additional fee.
Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route 6day Trek 8day Tour - Request for a free quote, sent direct to your e-mail address
Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route 6day Trek 8day Tour
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