About
The Marangu Route, known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the most popular and well-established trekking path on Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers hut accommodations at each camp, providing a more comfortable and less gear-intensive climb. The route features a diverse range of landscapes, from lush rainforests and moorlands to alpine deserts and the arctic summit zone, making it a visually captivating journey. Typically completed in 5 to 6 days, it is one of the shortest routes to the summit, appealing to those with time constraints.
The route's well-defined trail and gradual ascent profile make it accessible to trekkers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced hikers. Its popularity is further boosted by the scenic beauty and varying landscapes encountered along the way. While it is less physically demanding compared to other routes, the high altitude remains a challenge, necessitating proper acclimatization. Overall, the Marangu Route offers a balanced mix of comfort, scenic variety, and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experience Kilimanjaro's majesty without the need for camping equipment.
Day 1: Arrival
Activity:Â Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly staff will greet you and transport you to Chanya Resort in Moshi. Spend the night resting and rearranging your gear for the trek. Take the opportunity to ask any last-minute questions and leave any unnecessary items in the secured storage room. Your gear will be returned to you upon your return from the mountain.
Accommodation:Â Chanya Resort, Moshi
Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Elevation:Â 1,800m (5,905 ft) to 2,750m (9,021 ft)
Distance: 12.6km (7.83 miles)
Time: 3-4 hours
Activity:Â Depart from your hotel at 6:30 AM to Marangu Gate to obtain your trekking permit. After gate formalities and an introduction to your porters, embark on an easy walk through the fascinating rainforest to Mandara Hut.
Accommodation:Â Mandara Hut
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation:Â 2,750m (9,021 ft) to 3,780m (12,400 ft)
Distance:Â 7km (4.43 miles)
Time:Â 5 to 6 hours
Activity:Â After breakfast, ascend through rolling alpine meadows and giant heather trees. Enjoy the flora and views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks along this leisurely trail. A packed lunch is served en route to Horombo Hut, where you'll have dinner and stay overnight.
Accommodation:Â Horombo Hut
Day 4: Acclimatization at Horombo Hut and Hike to Zebra Rocks
Elevation: 3,780m (12,400ft) to 4,875m (15,988ft)
Activity:Â Head out early towards Mawenzi Peak with the goal of reaching Zebra Rocks. This acclimatization hike will help you adjust to the high altitude and test how your body reacts. In the afternoon, return to Mawenzi Hut. Remember, "Hike high, sleep low."
Accommodation:Â Mawenzi Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation:Â 3,780m (12,285 ft) to 4,700m (15,420 ft)
Distance:Â 6km (4 miles)
Time:Â 5 to 6 hours
Activity:Â After a good night's rest, continue past the cactus-like ground cover and the "last water" stream. Move onto the lunar landscape in the Alpine Zone on the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi. Spend the night at Kibo Hut.
Accommodation:Â Kibo Hut
Day 6: Summit Day
Elevation:Â 4,700m (15,420 ft) to 5,895m (19,340 ft) and back to 3,780m (12,285 ft)
Distance:Â 10km (6 miles)
Time:Â 14 to 16 hours
Activity:Â Begin your summit attempt early in the morning to reach Gillman Point (5,680m) before dawn. Witness a spectacular sunrise from Gillman Point, then continue for another hour to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895m. After reaching the summit, descend to Horombo Hut for the night.
Accommodation:Â Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation:Â 3,780m (12,285 ft) to 1,800m (5,850 ft)
Distance:Â 4km (2.5 miles) ascend, 14km (8.75 miles) descend
Time:Â 5 to 7 hours
Activity:Â Enjoy a leisurely walk back to the Park entrance, where our gate representative will meet you and drive you back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation:Â Chanya Resort, Moshi
Day 8: Cultural Excursion
Activity:Â Experience the local culture with activities such as a village tour, coffee making, visiting Shanga Village, exploring Chemka Springs, and viewing waterfalls.
Accommodation:Â Chanya Resort, Moshi
Day 9: Departure
Activity:Â Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a leisurely morning before being transported to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.