Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Marangu Route
Safari Overview
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 favor 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 which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. The minimum days required for 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. However, despite its immense popularity, we avoid leading climbs on the Marangu route. The route has the least scenic variety of all the routes because the ascent and descent are done on the same path and it is the most crowded route for that reason. Marangu is favored only during the rainy season, where the hut accommodations are preferred.
Trekking
Safari Itinerary
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
You’ll begin your journey at the Marangu Gate, where you’ll complete registration before starting the hike through dense rainforest. Along the trail, you might spot colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. Arrive at Mandara Hut for dinner and overnight stay.
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
The trail climbs out of the rainforest into the moorland zone. You’ll notice a significant change in vegetation as you move to the open grasslands and shrubs. Views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks will emerge as you approach Horombo Hut, where you’ll stay overnight.
Distance: Optional 5-10 km hikes
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours (Optional hikes)
Habitat: Moorland
This day is dedicated to acclimatization, which is essential for increasing your chances of reaching the summit. You can take short hikes to Mawenzi Ridge or the Zebra Rocks (named after their striped appearance) to adjust to the altitude and enjoy more views of the landscape. Return to Horombo Hut for your second night here.
Distance: 9.5 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trek continues through the saddle, a barren, lunar-like landscape between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. This day involves a steady ascent to Kibo Hut, where you’ll rest in preparation for the final push to the summit.
Distance: 21 km (6 km ascent, 15 km descent)
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert to Summit Zone, then back to Moorland
You’ll begin the summit attempt around midnight, navigating the steep switchbacks of the final ascent. After passing Gilman’s Point (5,681m) at the crater rim, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland and Rainforest
Your final descent takes you back through the moorland and rainforest to the Marangu Gate. At the gate, you’ll sign out and collect your summit certificate (gold for reaching Uhuru Peak, silver for reaching Gilman’s Point). Transfer back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Route Map :
What's Included & Excluded
Included
12 items- 1 Pre & Post Trek accommodation
- 2 Professional guides, cooks and porters
- 3 Transportation to & from the mountain gate
- 4 Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees
- 5 VAT fees and Charges
- 6 Double layered Sleeping Mats
- 7 3 meals daily while on the mountain
- 8 Filtered water throughout the trek
- 9 Portable toilets and toilets tents
- 10 Hot Water For Washing Purpose
- 11 Pick up and drop off at the airport
- 12 Fair wages for the mountain crew
Not Included
6 items- 1 International flights
- 2 Tip to the driver guide and hoteliers
- 3 Insurance fees
- 4 Cost of Tanzania Visa.
- 5 Bank charges
- 6 Personal Expenses
