5 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Via Marangu Route

5 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Via Marangu Route

Trekking Overview

The Marangu Route also known as the “Coca-Cola Route” is the oldest and most well established trekking route on Mount  Kilimanjaro, and it remains extremely popular mainly because it is the only route on the mountain that has hut accommodation for trekkers.

This path provides trekkers with the classic Kilimanjaro climbing experience, offering sweeping views and a wonderful hiking adventure all the way to the summit of Uhuru Peak. That said, it also has some unique aspects that set it apart from any of the other routes as well, giving Marangu route a character and feeling that is entirely its own.

One of the more interesting aspects of Marangu Route is that it is the only route up Mount Kilimanjaro that doesn’t allow camping, so instead of sleeping in tents, trekkers stay in permanent huts instead.

 

The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most popular and comfortable path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers accommodation in mountain huts, making it ideal for trekkers seeking shelter and a gradual ascent through diverse landscapes.

Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870m) – Mandara Hut (2,700m)

After breakfast, depart from Arusha/Moshi and drive to Marangu Gate, the main entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park. Upon arrival, complete registration and meet your mountain crew. Begin the trek through lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys and unique birdlife. After a steady hike, arrive at Mandara Hut for dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Leave the rainforest behind and continue through moorland vegetation with wide views of Mawenzi Peak. The trail becomes more open as you ascend to Horombo Hut, where you will rest, enjoy dinner, and acclimatize overnight.

Day 3: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,703m)

Trek across the alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This day is important for acclimatization, so a slow and steady pace is maintained. Arrive at Kibo Hut, have an early dinner, and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.

Day 4: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut

Begin the summit climb shortly after midnight. Ascend steep scree to Gilman’s Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos and a short rest, descend back to Kibo Hut for refreshments, then continue down to Horombo Hut for overnight.

Day 5: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate

Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Upon completion, receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of an unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.

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INCLUSION

* All transfers

* Accommodation
* all trekking fees,
* All meals while on the Mountain
* Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
* Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
* English speaking guide
* Sleeping bags
* Porters salary
• 3 meals in a day
• Mineral drinking water.

EXCLUSION

 Tips,
* medical insurance cover
* all trekking personal gears
* alcohol
* all things of personal nature

Frequently asked questions

How Difficult is the Marangu Route?

This route is attempted by many novice hikers every year as it offers comfortable hut accommodations, as opposed to other routes that require you to sleep in mountain tents. Many people attest that this route is less difficult compared to other hikes to the top of Kilimanjaro.

Marangu route common misconception for trekkers is perceive a 5-day hike to be easier than a 6-day hike. However, the 5-day options can be very difficult as it does not allow for much time to acclimate to the altitude.

The 6-day option is much easier, but a good level of fitness is still required.

What is the distance of the Marangu Route and how many days does it take to complete?

The exact distance on the Marangu Route is 82km or 50 miles. The shortest number of days required for the Marangu Route is 5 days, however, when you take into consideration the arrival and departure days, it is 9-10 days. As the Marangu Route is the shortest route on the mountain, it is best to complete the journey over 6 days to increase your chances of success.

What is the Maragu Route Summit Success Rate?

As it is one of the shortest routes on the mountain, the Marangu Route has the lowest summit success rates. This is mainly because of the unprofessional local tour guides who take groups up the mountain on the shorter 5-day hike. Because of this, the 5-day average success rate is 50%! We advise our hikers with this in mind, so we only take the 6-day option which increases the success rate to over 90%!

What scenery will I see on the Marangu Route?

The Marangu route ascends through the rainforest, moorlands, and alpine areas before ending in the glacial zone. This trek is very beautiful and is the only route that allows you to descend the same way you ascended.

Are there showers in the Marangu route?

Yes, there are showers and flushing toilets available at some of the huts in the Marangu route. However, the showers are cold and are available at Mandara hut and Horombo hut.

What is the best time to journey through the Marangu Route?

Between July and September is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro. The weather is the most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. Since it is close to the equator, it is possible to climb the mountain at any time during the year. Be cautious, April and May are the wettest months, so this period is best avoided.

 

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