5 Days Kilimanjaro Trek Marangu Route
Overview
About This Route
The Marangu route is one of the most popular and easiest routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania. It is also known as the “Coca-Cola Route” due to the presence of a Coca-Cola bottling plant at the starting point of the trail. The Marangu route is a well-established and well-maintained trail that offers hut accommodations and is considered the easiest route to the summit.
History of the Marangu Route
The Marangu route has been used for centuries as a trade route between the local Chagga people and the Maasai tribes. The route was first explored by European climbers in the early 20th century, and it has since become one of the most popular routes to the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Features of the Marangu Route
The Marangu route is a 4-6 day climb that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, elephant, and monkeys. The route starts at the Marangu Gate, which is located at an altitude of 1,860 meters (6,100 feet) and ends at the summit of Uhuru Peak, which is 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level.
The Marangu route is known for its relatively easy terrain and hut accommodations, which make it an ideal choice for climbers of all skill levels. The route also offers a variety of landscapes, including rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
Hut Accommodations
The Marangu route offers hut accommodations at two different locations: the Mandara Hut and the Horombo Hut. The Mandara Hut is located at an altitude of 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) and offers basic accommodations and meals. The Horombo Hut is located at an altitude of 3,700 meters (12,140 feet) and offers more comfortable accommodations and meals.
Climate and Weather
The climate and weather on the Marangu route can vary depending on the time of year and altitude. The route is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the temperature can drop significantly at higher altitudes, and climbers may experience frost and snow.
The rainy season on the Marangu route is from March to May and from September to November, and the dry season is from June to October. The best time to climb the Marangu route is during the dry season, when the weather is clear and the trail is less muddy.
Challenges and Risks
The Marangu route is considered one of the easiest routes to the summit of Kilimanjaro, but it still presents several challenges and risks. The high altitude can cause altitude sickness, which can be fatal if not recognized and treated promptly. Climbers may also experience fatigue, dehydration, and hypothermia.
Additionally, the Marangu route is a popular route, and the crowds can make the trail congested and increase the risk of accidents. Climbers should be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions, such as hiring an experienced guide and bringing appropriate gear and supplies.
Conclusion
The Marangu route is the easiest and most popular route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. The route is well-established and well-maintained, with hut accommodations and a relatively easy terrain. However, climbers should be aware of the challenges and risks associated with high-altitude climbing and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and successful climb.
Highlights
- Trek To The Highest Mountain Of Africa.
- Unlimited Fun And Adventure.
- Make Memories For Life Time.
Tour Plan
After breakfast, you will be collected from your lodge in Moshi and taken to the Marangu gate. Once the necessary paper work has been completed, your trek can begin and you will soon be hiking through the dense rainforest. Alongside the impressive vegetation, you will have the chance to catch a glimpse of some primates as you head to the Mandara Hut. After a well-earned rest, your guide can take you to the Maundi Crater where you can enjoy the wonderful view of the Kenyan interior.
Distance covered: 8.3km / 5.2mi
Approx. time taken: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
The day begins with an early breakfast. Shortly after you have left Mandara Hut, you will reach the timberline and then enter the heath and moor zone. Approximately 4 – 6 hours later, the Horombo Hut will come into sight, standing at an altitude of 3700m. From the hut, you will have fantastic views overlooking Mawenzi, Kibo and the wide plain of the Masai steppe.
Distance covered: 12.5km / 7.8mi
Approx. time taken: 9 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today’s stage is long and tough. The well-built trail passes the “Last Water point” which is followed by the so-called “saddle”. This nearly vegetation less plateau joins the main summit Kibo with Mawenzi. Today’s destination is the Kibo Hut that is usually reached in about 5 – 6 hours. Here, you will enjoy an early evening meal followed by an early night, as the night will be short.
Distance covered: 9.5km / 5.9mi
Approx. time taken: 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Today is “The Big Day” – the summit stage. You will begin your final ascent around midnight which will be long and strenuous. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave at 5220m, the climb slowly but surely goes upwards. At sunrise, you will reach Gillman’s Point (5681m) – the crater rim of Kilimanjaro – where the sun will slowly start to warm up the land. You will have soon forgotten the cold of the night and after a further hike of 1 – 2 hours, you will reach Uhuru Peak at 5895m. On your return to Kibo Hut, a warm meal awaits you followed by a 1 – 2 hour break before proceeding back down to Horombo Hut.
Distance covered: 22km / 13.7mi
Approx. time taken: 12 – 15 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
The last stage passes through the heath and moor zone to the Mandara Hut (2700m) where a warm lunch is waiting for you. Soon, you will once again pass the tropical rainforest and after a total time of 6 hours trekking, you will be back at the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (1860m). After saying goodbye to your mountain guides, a short transfer follows to take you back to your hotel or Airport for evening flight back home or fly to Zanzibar.
*End of our Service *
Distance covered: 20.8km / 12.9mi
Approx. time taken: 8 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included