Highlights
The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the most popular and one of the easier routes to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Here's a quick overview of the key highlights of this 5-day trek:
- Easier and Quicker Ascent: The Marangu Route is considered the most direct and shortest route to the summit, taking 5 days (with only one route for both ascent and descent).
- Comfortable Hut Accommodations: Unlike other routes that require camping, the Marangu Route offers more comfort with cozy, communal huts at each camp, equipped with beds and basic facilities.
- Tropical Rainforest to Alpine Desert: The route passes through distinct ecological zones, starting with lush tropical rainforest, transitioning through moorland, and ending in the harsh, barren alpine desert near the summit.
- Famous "Coca-Cola" Route: Due to its popularity, the Marangu Route is often called the "Coca-Cola Route," attracting trekkers looking for a more accessible path to the summit. The trail is well-marked and straightforward.
Journey
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha to Marangu Gate
- Trek Start: The journey begins through a lush rainforest trail to Mandara Hut, a comfortable resting spot.
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)
- Overnight: Mandara Hut.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- After breakfast, continue your trek through the dense forest, transitioning into the moorland zone.
- Enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit, and see the first views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
- Arrive at Horombo Hut, a scenic location with panoramic views.
- Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)
- Overnight: Horombo Hut.
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Begin the day with a trek across the alpine desert, where vegetation becomes scarce and the environment harsher.
- Continue towards Kibo Hut, the final rest stop before your summit attempt.
- Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)
- Overnight: Kibo Hut.
Day 4: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak
- Start early (around midnight) to begin your summit attempt.
- The trek to Uhuru Peak is tough, with steep, icy terrain, but the reward is the incredible feeling of standing on top of Africa.
- After summiting, begin your descent back to Horombo Hut to rest and recover.
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 1,145 meters (3,757 feet)
- Descent: 2,745 meters (9,003 feet)
- Overnight: Horombo Hut.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Enjoy the final stretch of your journey as you descend through the moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate.
- Collect your summit certificate at the gate and celebrate your accomplishment.
- Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
- Elevation Loss: 1,830 meters (6,004 feet)
- End of Trek: Transfer back to your hotel or airport for departure.
5 Days Marangu Price
1 pax | 2-4 pax | 5-9 pax | 10+ pax |
---|---|---|---|
USD 1,705 | USD 1,655 | USD 1,515 | USD 1,375 |
What's Included
- Accommodation: Hut accommodations throughout the trek.
- Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).
- Guides and Support Team: Professional guides, porters, and a chef.
- Park Fees: Includes entry fees to Kilimanjaro National Park.
- Transfers: Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Medical Support: Emergency oxygen and medical kit.
- Trekking Equipment: Trekking poles, rain gear, and other necessary equipment.
- Certificate: Summit certificate for successful trekkers.
How to Prepare for Your Kilimanjaro Trek
- Fitness Preparation: It’s important to train for the trek by doing cardiovascular and strength exercises. Long hikes or walks with a weighted backpack can help improve your stamina.
- Altitude Considerations: Acclimatization is crucial, so be sure to follow the pace set by your guides. Hydration and proper rest are key to avoiding altitude sickness.
- Packing: Bring layered clothing suitable for both warm and cold weather. Essential items include a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, a hat, gloves, and a sleeping bag.
- Mental Preparation: Be mentally prepared for long days of trekking and possible challenges. Stay positive and focus on your goal: reaching the summit!
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