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Marangu Route

KILIMANJARO | Marangu

TOUR IDEAS

The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, is one of the most popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is renowned for its well-established trails, comfortable accommodation in huts, and relatively gentle gradient, making it an excellent choice for first-time climbers.

Key Features

  1. Accommodation: Unlike other routes that require camping, Marangu offers dormitory-style huts with basic amenities, providing a unique advantage in terms of comfort and protection from the elements.
  2. Scenery: The route takes climbers through a variety of landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, culminating in the icy summit at Uhuru Peak.
  3. Duration: Typically completed in 5 to 6 days, it is one of the shortest routes, although the limited time for acclimatization can pose a challenge.
  4. Accessibility: The route starts at the Marangu Gate, located on the eastern side of Kilimanjaro, which is easily accessible from Moshi and Arusha.
  • Mandara Hut
  • Horombo Hut
  • Kibo Hut
  • Mawenzi Turn
  • Horombo Camp
  • Mandara Hut

Activities on the Marangu Route

The Marangu Route offers a mix of adventure, cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural exploration. Here are the key activities climbers can enjoy during the trek:


1. Trekking through Diverse Ecosystems

  • Rainforest Zone:
    • Spot unique flora like giant ferns and towering eucalyptus trees.
    • Watch for wildlife, including blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and an array of birds.
  • Moorland Zone:
    • Hike through a landscape of giant lobelias, groundsel, and heathers.
    • Marvel at dramatic vistas of Kilimanjaro’s peaks.
  • Alpine Desert Zone:
    • Experience the stark beauty of barren, volcanic terrain.
    • Take in the surreal environment under a brilliant starry sky.
  • Arctic Zone:
    • Witness glaciers and icy landscapes near the summit.

2. Wildlife Spotting

  • Observe animals such as bush babies and mountain rodents in the rainforest.
  • Birdwatching enthusiasts may spot species like hornbills, turacos, and sunbirds.

3. Summiting Kilimanjaro

  • Attempt the ultimate adventure of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
  • Take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and glaciers.
  • Witness an unforgettable sunrise at the summit.

4. Cultural Experiences

  • Engage with the local Chagga people near the base of Kilimanjaro.
  • Learn about their traditions, cuisine, and way of life.
  • Visit nearby villages and coffee farms for a glimpse into the region’s cultural richness.

5. Photography

  • Capture breathtaking scenery, from lush forests to snow-capped peaks.
  • Document wildlife encounters and the ever-changing terrain.
  • Sunrise and summit shots offer once-in-a-lifetime photographic moments.

6. Acclimatization Hikes

  • On acclimatization days at Horombo Hut, take short hikes to Mawenzi Ridge or nearby trails to help your body adjust to the altitude.

7. Stargazing

  • With minimal light pollution, nights on the Marangu Route provide excellent stargazing opportunities, especially at higher altitudes like Horombo and Kibo Huts.

8. Team Bonding and Relaxation

  • Spend time with your trekking group and guides, sharing stories and building camaraderie.
  • Relax in the evenings at the huts, preparing for the next day’s adventure.

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Destinations Along the Marangu Route

The Marangu Route takes climbers through several captivating destinations, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. Here’s a detailed overview:


1. Marangu Gate (1,870m)

  • Starting Point: Located at the base of Kilimanjaro, this is where registration and preparation begin.
  • Scenery: Surrounded by lush greenery and local Chagga villages.
  • Activities:
    • Briefing and gear check.
    • Interactions with porters and guides.

2. Mandara Hut (2,720m)

  • First Overnight Stop: Nestled in the rainforest zone.
  • Highlights:
    • Dense rainforest with vibrant flora like orchids and moss-covered trees.
    • Opportunity to visit Maundi Crater for panoramic views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya.
  • Wildlife: Monkeys, birds, and occasionally small antelope.

3. Horombo Hut (3,720m)

  • Second Overnight Stop: Located in the moorland zone.
  • Highlights:
    • Stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
    • Unique vegetation like giant lobelias and groundsel.
  • Activities:
    • Acclimatization hikes to Mawenzi Ridge or Zebra Rocks.
    • Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and clear night skies.

4. Kibo Hut (4,703m)

  • Base Camp: The final overnight stop before summiting.
  • Highlights:
    • Situated in the alpine desert, with barren yet dramatic landscapes.
    • Close proximity to the imposing Kibo Peak.
  • Activities:
    • Preparation for the midnight ascent to the summit.

5. Gilman’s Point (5,681m)

  • Milestone on the Summit Path: Located on the crater rim.
  • Highlights:
    • Spectacular sunrise views.
    • First glimpse of the summit area and the glaciers.

6. Uhuru Peak (5,895m)

  • The Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro: The ultimate destination of the trek.
  • Highlights:
    • Panoramic views of the African plains, glaciers, and volcanic formations.
    • A sense of achievement at standing on Africa’s highest point.
  • Activities:
    • Take memorable summit photos.
    • Reflect on your journey before descending.

7. Scenic Stops Along the Descent

  • Horombo Hut (3,720m): Rest and celebrate the summit achievement.
  • Marangu Gate (1,870m): End of the journey, where certificates are awarded for successful summits.

 

  • Ground transfers with pick up and drop of at Kilimanjaro airport
  • Transfer from the base hotel to the starting gate
  • Transfer from Mweka gate to Hotel on last day after climb.
  • Park entrance fees,
  • Camping/Hut fees
  • Rescue fees,
  • Emergency Oxygen at no extra charge
  • Every guide must carry Comprehensive Medical / First aid Kit with al necessary medications.
  • Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, to measure clients oxygen saturation and pulse rate.
  • 24 Hours standby radio Communication
  • 3LTRS bottled Mineral water on the first day per client
  • Hot meals (except first day) all meals are served in the mess tent.
  • High quality 4 Season tents for clients
  • 3 inches mattress and extra air mattress on top for each client.
  • Professional Mountain Guide, Park Fees and Salaries
  • Porters,
  • First and last night accommodation at the Hotel on (BB)
  • Each client is given one hot-water bottle at nights to put in the sleeping bag to keep them warm.
  • High quality food
  • Summit porter to carry client’s daypack and water at summit night.
  • Flying Doctor membership cover
  • Availability of High Pressurized helicopter for evacuation at the time of emergency.
  • Snacks
  • Water throughout the entire climb
  •  
  • Personal gears/climbing equipment,
  • Sleeping bags,
  • Drinks,
  • Tipping and all other expenses of personal nature.
Arival
Day 1
Meet at Kilimanjaro airport, transfer to Lake Duluti in Arusha Town, Check in at the hotel, enjoy dinner and overnight.
Arival
Marangu Gate
Day 2
Breakfast at Lake Duluti. Arrange with the reception staff at the lodge to store your excess luggage. At 8:30m meet your guide at the Hotel reception and drive to Marangu Gate to register at 10:00am. The drive is around 2hours. Please note that you will need to know your passport numbers in order to complete your registration card. You are advised however to leave your valuables including your passport, in the hotel safe deposit, except for the amount in US Dollars that you will be need for tipping your support staff. After breakfast and a short tour briefing from the guide, we will depart to Marangu gate of Kilimanjaro National Park (it is a 45-minute drive from Moshi to the Marangu Gate). After registering with the park authorities, our climb will officially commence with a four-hour walk to the Mandara encampment. We will pass through a thick rainforest zone, where there is a high chance of rain in the afternoon. We will spend the night at Mandara Hut (2,750m), an attractive collection of buildings.
Artboard 1
Marangu Gate
Horombo
Day 3
Today we will continue our ascent through the forest for a short time, before reaching the heather and moorland zone at roughly 3,000m (approximately a six-hour walk). Enjoy stunning views of the mountain peaks at this altitude. We will spend the night at Horombo Hut (3,720m), which lies in a valley surrounded by giant lobelia and groundsel, flora which are characteristic of this semi- alpine zone.
Artboard 1
Horombo
Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m)
5-6 hours walking
Day 4
Our trek continues past the final watering point, and ascends onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro, between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The vegetation thins out as we enter the desert-like alpine zone (approximately 4,000m) and, once we cross the saddle, Kibo peak comes into view. The saddle is an alpine desert that resembles a lunar landscape. Be careful to notice signs of altitude sickness. This seven-hour walk will be taken at a slow pace. We will spend the night at Kibo Hut (4,703m), a comfortable stone construction (no running water at Kibo Hut). This semi-desert zone receives an annual rainfall of under 250mm; the ground often freezes at night, but ground temperatures soar to above 30 degrees Celsius by day. Few plants other than lichens and grasses survive in these conditions.
Artboard 1
Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m)
5-6 hours walking
Horombo Camp (3,720 m).
[11-15 hours walking]
Day 5
Shortly after midnight, we will commence our climb to the summit of Kilimanjaro, since it is easier to climb the scree slope to Gillman's Point (5,861m) on the crater rim when it is frozen, and an early start for the six-hour hike improves our chances of reaching the summit in time for sunrise. From Gilman's Point, it is a further two-hour round trip along the crater's edge to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. From the summit, it is downhill all the way to Horombo Hut where we will spend our last night on the mountain.
Artboard 1
Horombo Camp (3,720 m).
[11-15 hours walking]
Mandara Hut (2,700m),
[5-6 hours walking]
Day 6
Today’s descent continues past the Mandara encampment to the bottom of the mountain, where each hiker will receive a well-earned certificate. Here our crew will offer you quick package lunch. And thereafter transfer to Lake Duluti for proper shower and dinner.
Mandara Hut (2,700m),
[5-6 hours walking]

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