Marangu Route Itinerary (5/6 Days)
Overview
The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular paths for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for its relatively gentle slopes and comfortable hut accommodations, making it suitable for climbers of varying experience levels.
Day 01 :
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
5-Day Itinerary
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 m to 2,700 m
- Highlights:
- Begin your adventure at Marangu Gate.
- Trek through lush rainforests filled with diverse flora and fauna.
Day 02 :
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)Duration: 6-8 hoursElevation Gain: 2,700 m to 3,700 mHighlights:
- Ascend through moorland with breathtaking views.
- Observe unique plants like giant groundsels and lobelias.
Day 03 :
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)Duration: 6 to 8 hoursElevation Gain: 3,700 m to 4,700 mHighlights: Continue to Kibo Hut, the final stop before the summit, and experience the changing landscape as you approach the Kibo crater
- Distance: 22 km (13.6 miles) round trip
- Time: 12-15 hours
- Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak)
- Description: You will start the summit climb in the early hours (around midnight). After reaching Uhuru Peak, you'll descend back to Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 05 :
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
- Time: 5-7 hours
- Elevation: 3,700 m to 1,800 m
- Description: Enjoy your last trek down through the rainforest back to the Marangu Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificate.
Day 06 :
6-Day Itinerary
Days 1-3: Same as the 5-day itinerary.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 3,700 m
- Description: Spend a day at Horombo Hut for acclimatization. You can hike to the nearby Mawenzi Hut and back for a few hours to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and descent to Horombo Hut
- Same as Day 4 of the 5-day itinerary.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Same as Day 5 of the 5-day itinerary.
Additional Notes
- Accommodation: The Marangu Route offers hut accommodations, which are more comfortable compared to camping.
- Trekking Gear: Proper gear, including warm clothing, good hiking boots, and a good quality sleeping bag, is essential.
- Guides and Porters: It is mandatory to have a licensed guide and support staff for your trek.
- Altitude Consideration: Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
