6 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE

Mount Kilimanjaro

Overview
Itinerary
Cost Info
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Overview

The Marangu Route, often referred to as the ‘Coca Cola’ route, is used for both ascending and descending, featuring huts at three stations: Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo. Despite its reputation suggesting ease, it is no simpler than other routes and requires a minimum of five days to complete. The misconception of its simplicity arises from the availability of hut accommodations instead of tents. An optional acclimatization day at Horombo Huts is recommended for those without prior high-altitude trekking experience. To avoid inconveniences, advance booking of hut accommodation is essential. Starting from the park headquarters in Marangu village, the trail heads westward towards Kibo, traversing lush rainforest, heath and moorland, alpine desert, and ultimately the arctic zone at the peak, following the same route on the descent.

Itinerary

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1
This 6 days Marangu route Climbing Kilimanjaro Program; You will be picked up from airport and transferred to The arranged Hotel in Arusha followed by briefing from your mountain guide and rest at lodge / hotel.
Day 2
Taking a short drive from Arusha or Arusha town to the Kilimanjaro Park Gate (1,879 m), situated at the edge of Marangu, a charming village with small coffee and banana plantations. After completing the entrance formalities, we climb through pristine forest to reach the clearing containing Mandara Hut (2,720 m). The nearby volcanic remains of Maundi Crater make for a good afternoon excursion, though alternatively, one can rest and enjoy the beautiful forest, rich with birdlife and often visited by monkeys. The walk to Mandara Hut typically takes 3-5 hours.
Day 3
We leave Mandara Hut for Horombo Hut, beginning with a steep ascent through forest before the path opens into grassy moorland, offering clear views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. We climb steadily through the moorland zone, which features giant heather and occasional stands of groundsel, eventually reaching Horombo Hut (3,720 m). Sunrises and sunsets here are often stunning, and the site, close to the glaciated dome of Kibo, offers a real sense of being above the clouds. The walk from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut typically takes 4-6 hours.
Day 4
We leave Horombo Hut and gradually climb through the Desert Saddle towards the lunar desert between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain changes to scree, creating a palpable sense of high-altitude wilderness. We usually reach Kibo Hut (4,720 m) at the bottom of the crater wall by midday, allowing the afternoon free to contemplate the summit ascent. The remainder of the day is spent resting and eating in preparation for the final climb before an early night. The walk from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut typically takes 4-5 hours.
Day 5
We leave Kibo Hut for the summit and then descend to Horombo Hut, starting our ascent by torchlight at about 1 a.m. to reach Gillman’s Point by sunrise. The initial climb is steep over loose volcanic scree, but well-graded zig-zags and a slow, steady pace will get us to Gillman’s (5,685 m) in about five to six hours. After resting and enjoying the sunrise, those feeling strong can take the three-hour round trip along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m), passing close to the spectacular glaciers. The descent is surprisingly fast, and we return to Horombo Hut for the night. The entire journey from Kibo Hut to Gillman’s Point typically takes 11-15 hours.
Day 6
We retrace our steps from Kilimanjaro with a pleasant moorland walk to Mandara, followed by a lovely forest walk to the National Park gates and then to Arusha city. The greenness and lushness of the forest provide a stunning contrast to the summit day, highlighting the varied scenery of Kilimanjaro. This walk typically takes 5-6 hours.

Prior returning to Arusha you will have a rest at the lodge waiting to catch flight to home the following day.

Cost Info

Itinerary Includes

Airport Pick ups and drop offs before and after the trip.
Park entrance fees & Game drives
Accommodations (camps/lodges)
English speaking Driver/ guide, and a French, Germany, Spanish, Italian, Japanese guide (on request).
Picnic lunch box and Drinking water
4 x 4 vehicle (6 seat) with a roof hatch for game viewing

Not Included in the Itinerary

Optional activities that are not outlined on the outline
Flight costs
Visas and travel insurance
Tips

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