Marangu Route 6 days
Mount Kilimanjaro
The Marangu Route or also nicknamed as the coca cola route, is the only hike up Mount Kilimanjaro were
you‘ll sleep in Mountain huts instead of tents and the only route that takes the same route up as it does
down. The original 6 day route can be shortened to 5 days but this cuts out a very important altitude day
which we strongly recommend in order to prepare yourself for the summit. The additional day allows time
for side trips which are crucial altitude gain and may increase your chances to reach the summit.
The Marangu route is an extremely popular one as it attracts a lot of climbers of all ages and climbing
experiences. Add in the fact you have a hut and a foam mattress at the end of a day as opposed to a tent
making this the most manicured of routes.
Bush2Beach Safaris offers the Marangu route both in 5 and 6 days and the route is the same for both
options with the difference being one extra day at altitude. We strongly advise you to opt for this extra day
which gives you the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the mountain.
Preparation day
Your mountain guide will visit you at your hotel for a full briefing of your upcoming climb and check all your personal equipment for the climb.
Day 1
After breakfast you will departure for the Marangu gate. Enjoy a coffee or tea while your guide secures the climbing permits and then you start hiking through the dense rainforest. Enjoy the impressive vegetation and the relatively short walking day of approximately 4 hours when you reach the Mandara Hut. After a short rest your guide can take you to the Maundi crater where you can enjoy the wonderful view of the Kenyan interior.
O/n Mandara Hut – 2,650 mts (L, D)
Day 2
Today you will reach the timberline as you climb up through giant Alpine forest and across moorlands onto the slopes of the Mawenzi massify. The walk will take 4 - 7 hours before you reach Horombo hut and lunch will be on the way. This is a long day about 14 km but taken at a slow and easy pace with rest stops en-route.
O/n Horombo Hut – 3,700 meters (B, L, D)
Day 3
Leisurely breakfast at Horombo where you spend the day acclimatizing. Head off on a leisurely walk accompanied by your guide to gain altitude greater than that of Horombo Hut. Return for hot lunch followed by relaxation and overnight.
O/n Horombo Hut – 3,700 meters (B, L, D)
Day 4
After breakfast you continue the climb towards Kibo Hut, a fairly long day with 13km to cover. The trail passes the so-called “saddle”, a vegetation less plateau joins the main Kibo peak with Mawenzi. Today’s destination is reached in about 5 - 6 hours and you will enjoy an early evening and try to get some rest as the night will be very short.
O/n Kibo Hut – 4,700 meters (B, L, D)
Day 5
Early wakeup call in preparation for the summit attempt. Enjoy a hot drink and a small snack before you start at a slow and steady pace to Uhuru peak. If all goes to plan you should reach the summit at 5,896 meters in time to catch the sunrise. After the victory dance and pictures have been taken begin the descent to Horombo Hut.
O/n Horombo Hut – 3,700 meters (B, L, D)
Day 6
After breakfast you descend slowly towards the Marangu gate for celebrations and champagne brunch with the entire team. You transfer vehicle will be taking you to your hotel for well deserved showers and relaxation.
(B, L)
Summary
Day 1: 4 hours of walking – Mandara Hut at 2,650 meters
Day 2: 5-7 hours of walking – Horombo Hut at 3,700 meters
Day 3: Acclimatization day – Horombo Hut at 3,700 meters
Day 4: 5-6 hours of walking – Kibo Hut at 4,700 meters
Day 5: 5-6 hours of walking – Horombo Hut at 3,700 meters
Day 6: 5-7 hours of walking to Marangu Gate
Inclusive:
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees
Meals as stipulated
Professional mountain guide, chef and crew
Shared hut accommodation
Cooking equipment
Emergency Evacuation Cover
Emergency oxygen
All transfers and activities as mentioned above
Exclusive:
Tips:
guide $80-$150
assistant guide $60-80
chef $50-$70, porter $25-$40 (per porter)
Drinks (drinking water will be boiled and treated on the mountain)
Personal climbing gear including sleeping bag and thermarest
Visa and airport departure tax
International flights and airport transfers
COVID testing and additional transport if required
Items of personal nature and not mentioned in the above itinerary