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ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Marangu Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast. Many favor Marangu because it is considered to be the easiest route on the mountain, given its gradual slope and direct path. The minimum days required for this route is five, although spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is recommended.
Marangu is the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. The huts are furnished with bunk beds and climbers are supplied with mattresses and pillows. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut. Also available are soft drinks, beer and bottled water.
The Marangu Route is a classic trek to the top of Kilimanjaro. However, it is the least scenic of the routes, as the ascent and descent are done on the same path, and is the most crowded for that reason.
ITINERARY
DAY 1
Wake early and drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu (1860 m) where we meet our porters, complete park formalities, and begin the first section of the climb. This first day is characterized by the lushness of the scenic rainforest. Overnight at Mandara Hut (2700 m).
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 7 km | Altitude Gain: 840 m
DAY 2
Leave the rainforest and hike around the base of Maundi Crater; thereafter enter into the moorland area on your ascent to Horombo Hut. Overnight at Horombo Hut (3700 m).
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 11 km | Altitude Gain: 1000 m
DAY 3
Enjoy a full day at Horombo Hut and the surrounding environment. You will be given time to rest as well as guided on short hikes to aid in your acclimatization.
DAY 4
Leave the moorlands and hike through the day in a desert area, where hiking begins to get steeper. Arrive at Kibo Hut for a restful evening and early bedtime so you can wake at midnight to begin your final ascent. Overnight at Kibo Hut (4700 m).
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 12 km | Altitude Gain: 920 m
DAY 5
An early start, you will set off at midnight for the summit. Head up a rocky path to Gillman’s Point at 5681 m, situated on the crater rim. This section is very steep with much stone scree and is the most demanding section of the route. From Gillman’s Point we hike for another two hours up to Uhuru Peak (5895 m), the highest point in Africa. You made it! We enjoy a short time on the Roof of Africa before beginning our descent.
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours | Distance: 7 km | Altitude Gain: 1190 m
We descend back using the same route, passing through Kibo Hut and then onto Horombo (3700 m), where we will spend our last night on the mountain. We enjoy our final dinner and a well-earned sleep.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 12 km | Altitude Loss: 2175 m
DAY 6
Retrace your steps through the rainforest to the Marangu Gate to meet the company vehicle and receive your summit certificates courtesy of the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority. You will thereafter be transferred back to Arusha town. Trekking Time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 18 km | Altitude Loss: 1878 m
INCLUDED
- Accommodation according to the itinerary
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Professional, English-speaking safari cook
- Overnight stays in safari tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc.)
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Mineral water
- All mentioned activities
- All national park fees
EXCLUDED
- Sleeping bag
- Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
