Marangu route in brief
The Marangu Route is like a gentle stroll, earning the nickname “Coca-Cola Route” for its easy-going nature. In delightful contrast, the Machame Route is known as the “Whiskey Route,” for being a bit tougher due to its steeper paths. It’s like choosing between something sweet and something a bit bitter. For those who prefer a smoother Mount Kilimanjaro climb, Marangu route is the way to go, offering a simple yet delightful climb.
Instead of tents, you’ll stay in cozy mountain huts, blending comfort with the natural grandeur around you.
Better taken in 6 days, however, you can take a Marangu route climb challenge in 5 days. Along the way, you will have great views and some notable features you may see include Lake Jipe, Lake Chala, and a possibility of visiting picturesque Maundi Crater, an amazing scenic view point.
Interesting facts about the Marangu route
- It is the mountain's most ancient ascent path.
- Despite its reputation for ease, the Marangu route proves challenging.
- Marangu route stands as the exclusive route where accommodation is provided in mountain huts.
- The Marangu route ascends and descends along the same trails, distinguishing it as the sole path with a unified ascent and descent route.
- Our Marangu route offer starts at $2050 per person
Some photos from Marangu route
Marangu route Itineraries
5 Days Marangu route, starts at $2050 per person
Distance: 7km
Trekking time: 4-6 hours
Zone: Tropical Rainforest
Altitude gain: 730 meters
You will start your Marangu route climb through the lush rainforest, where day one’s ascent toward Mandara Hut unfolds with ease. Enjoy the gradual climb, leading to mountain huts equipped with solar-generated lighting, flush toilets, and a water supply.
Distance: 12km
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Zone: Heath
Altitude gain: 1020 meters
Post-breakfast at Mandara Hut, we will venture through the rainforest toward the Heath zone at Horombo Hut. Your guide might arrange a visit to Maundi crater, offering a splendid first glimpse of Kibo peak. En route, anticipate encounters with majestic giant lobelias, common residents at this altitude.
Distance: 10km
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Zone: Alpine desert
Altitude gain: 1000 meters
We will commence the day’s ascent early for optimal progress, as a substantial distance and elevation await. Follow a lower route toward Kibo Hut, pausing at the last water point at 4,130 meters to replenish supplies. Note the absence of watering points until your return to Horombo Hut from the summit. At Kibo Hut, indulge in an early dinner, aiming for at least 4 hours of rest before the summit bid
Distance: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak about 6.5km
Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut 15.5km making a total of 22km
Trekking time:
6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak, then 5-6 hours from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Zone: Arctic zone then Heath
Altitude gain: 1175 meters then
altitude loss:2175 meters
The eagerly awaited summit night is upon you, where both your mental resilience and physical strength will be put to the ultimate test.
Upon awakening, a serving of hot drinks and biscuits will precede the commencement of the summit hike, with the initial destination being Gilman’s Point at 5685 meters, situated on Kibo’s crater rim.
At Gilman’s Point, a brief rest of no more than 5 minutes awaits, allowing time to refuel with a snack.
The final ascent will then unfold at a deliberate pace, conquering the remaining 200 meters to Uhuru Peak. After capturing moments with photos and celebrating at Uhuru Peak, the descent journey begins, leading back to Kibo Hut and onward to Horombo Hut.
Distance: 19km
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Zone: Rainforest
Altitude loss: 1750 meters
Exhausted yet undoubtedly elated, you’ve now realized your dream of conquering Africa’s highest peak. While traversing the rainforest during your descent, anticipate encounters with Colobus monkeys and other small creatures. The challenging descent includes a lunch stop at Mandara Hut before progressing to Marangu Gate.
6 Days Marangu route, starts at $2200 per person
Distance: 7km
Trekking time: 4-6 hours
Zone: Tropical Rainforest
Altitude gain: 730 meters
You will start the hike through a rainforest. On day one, the hike is fairly easy as you will gradually be ascending towards the Mandara Hut. Your hut is furnished with solar-generated lighting, flush toilets, and water.
Distance: 12km
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Zone: Heath
Altitude gain: 1020 meters
After breakfast at Mandara Hut, we will leave through the rainforest towards the Heath zone at Horombo Hut. Your guide may arrange for a visit to Maundi where you will have your first full view of Kibo peak. Expect to see beautiful giant lobelias. At this altitude, these plants are common residents.
Distance: 5km
Trekking time: 4-5 hours
Zone: Heath
Altitude gain: 300 meters
This day stands out with a 4-5 hour hike to Zebra Rocks and back, exemplifying the “climb high, sleep low” philosophy. Named for their black and white stripes resembling zebras, these rocks offer a unique encounter. This experience proves beneficial for your body, aiding in acclimatization to higher altitudes before the ascent towards Kibo Hut on the subsequent day.
Distance: 10km
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Zone: Alpine desert
Altitude gain: 1000 meters
We will commence the day’s ascent early for optimal progress, as a substantial distance and elevation await. Follow a lower route toward Kibo Hut, pausing at the last water point at 4,130 meters to replenish supplies. Note the absence of watering points until your return to Horombo Hut from the summit. At Kibo Hut, indulge in an early dinner, aiming for at least 4 hours of rest before the summit bid
Distance: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak about 6.5km
Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut 15.5km making a total of 22km
Trekking time:
6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak, then 5-6 hours from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Zone: Arctic zone then Heath
Altitude gain: 1175 meters then
altitude loss:2175 meters
The eagerly awaited summit night is upon you, where both your mental resilience and physical strength will be put to the ultimate test.
Upon awakening, a serving of hot drinks and biscuits will precede the commencement of the summit hike, with the initial destination being Gilman’s Point at 5685 meters, situated on Kibo’s crater rim.
At Gilman’s Point, a brief rest of no more than 5 minutes awaits, allowing time to refuel with a snack.
The final ascent will then unfold at a deliberate pace, conquering the remaining 200 meters to Uhuru Peak. After capturing moments with photos and celebrating at Uhuru Peak, the descent journey begins, leading back to Kibo Hut and onward to Horombo Hut.
Distance: 19km
Trekking time: 6-8 hours
Zone: Rainforest
Altitude loss: 1750 meters
Exhausted yet undoubtedly elated, you’ve now realized your dream of conquering Africa’s highest peak. While traversing the rainforest during your descent, anticipate encounters with Colobus monkeys and other small creatures. The challenging descent includes a lunch stop at Mandara Hut before progressing to Marangu Gate.
Not sure what to choose?
Price Includes and Excludes
Includes
- Expert Guidance from our professional and experienced guides
- Services of porters through out the climb
- Accommodation in shared mountain huts
- Pre and post climb accommodation (two nights in total)
- Nutritious and delicious meals to fuel your adventure
- All entrance fees and permits for Kilimanjaro National Park
- Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gates
- First aid kit
- Farewell dinner
Excludes
- International flights
- Personal expenses
- Gratuity for guides, porters and support staff
- Alcohol and extra snacks
- Additional accommodation required before or after the trek
- Optional activities such as day trips and safari
- Travel insurance
- Visa