Bobby Camping Safaris Tanzania
6-day Marangu route Kilimanjaro
The marangu route kilimanjaro is one of the most popular and well-established routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” the marangu route kilimanjaro is known for its comfortable hut accommodations, gradual trekking paths, and breathtaking scenery. This 6-day trek offers climbers a classic Kilimanjaro experience while passing through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforest to alpine desert and the icy summit of Africa’s highest mountain.
During the climb, the marangu route kilimanjaro takes you through beautiful landscapes where you may encounter unique vegetation, stunning views, and incredible sunrises above the clouds. The trail leads to well-maintained mountain huts, providing shelter and a comfortable place to rest after each day’s hike. Many trekkers choose the marangu route kilimanjaro because of its direct path and the added comfort of sleeping in huts instead of tents.
With experienced mountain guides, porters, and cooks supporting your journey, the marangu route kilimanjaro offers both adventure and safety as you make your way toward Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. This unforgettable trek allows you to experience the challenge, beauty, and achievement of standing on the roof of Africa through the iconic marangu route kilimanjaro
Hike to Mandara Hut
After breakfast and briefing, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1 hour), register and commence the trek. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara Huts. A side trip to Maundi Crater is a good way to see the surroundings including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, bird life, and Colobus monkeys.
You leave the glades of the rain-forest and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to the Horombo Huts. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and grounsels. You may begin to feel the effects of the altitude.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Heath
Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut
Elevation (ft): 14,400 ft to 12,205
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Heath
This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut.
Ascending, we now pass the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with upper heath-land but then disappears into “moonscape”. Dinner, rest, and prepare for summit climb.
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s point located on the crater rim. Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo Huts.
The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly “pole pole” and an optimistic attitude will get you there!
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
• Distance: 20km/12.5mi
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Forest
• Meals: B
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
Our vehicle will meet you at Marangu gate to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha