6 Days
Marangu Route
Route Overview
Marangu Route 6 days is best for climbers and Marangu route is the easiest route up Kilimanjaro summit compared to other routes. Climbers on this route experience moderate trekking from starting day to Kibo huts but after Kibo hut to the summit the trek is physical demanding as the path is tiring. The Marangu Route is just known as the “Coca Cola” route due to the truth that drinks are for sale in the huts. Marangu route is also the only route offering comfortable sleeping huts at every campsite with solar lights and comfortable beds. The huts are shared by all climbers and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillows so require fewer supplies. There are washrooms with running water at the first two huts and basic washrooms ate the last huts. Meals are shared in dining huts at each camp you can mingle around and make some stories. Soft drinks, bottled water and beer are available for sale at the huts and prices increase as you hike up. Marangu Route 6 day. The minimum trekking days on Marangu route is 5 days but can be done in 6 days and have one day resting at Horombo hut for acclimatization before you attempt the summit.
Day By Day Itinerary
Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
We depart Arusha for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. At the upper edge of the forest line, we have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.
At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Heath
We will start the day by continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. We may get our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks – two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Heath
This is an extra day meant for acclimatisation 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.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Very early in the morning, we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, break. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km/12 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha.