5 Days Kilimanjaro Hike Via Marangu Route $1510
MARANGU ROUTE OVER VIEW
The Marangu route on Kilimanjaro, also known as the "coca cola route," is often considered an easy climb due to its comfortable walking path, gradual slope (until the final camp), and hut accommodation. However, the reality is that many trekkers fail to reach the summit. This route's reputation as an "easy" option can lead to unprepared trekkers who underestimate the challenges it presents. Several factors make the Marangu route a tough climb:
Unprepared Trekkers: Because many hikers perceive the Marangu route as easy, they often fail to adequately prepare for the climb. This lack of preparation can lead to difficulties on the mountain.
Insufficient Acclimatization: The minimum mandatory 5-day hike on this route does not allow for adequate acclimatization to the high altitudes. As a result, some trekkers suffer from altitude sickness. An extended 6-day version of the Marangu hike is recommended for better acclimatization.
Long Summit Days: The last day before the summit and the summit attempt are particularly challenging. Each involves ascending about 1000 meters of altitude difference. This leaves little time for trekkers to recover and acclimatize properly.
Steep Summit Path: The path to the summit becomes steeper as you near the top, adding to the physical demands of the climb.
Unpredictable Weather: Weather conditions can be unfavorable as you approach the summit, making the climb more challenging and potentially dangerous.
To increase your chances of successfully reaching the summit on the Marangu route, it's crucial to consider the following characteristics and recommendations:
Gradual Path: The route offers a relatively gradual ascent.
Hut Accommodation: Camping is not possible on the Marangu route; instead, trekkers stay in huts. However, these huts provide basic amenities, including a mattress, pillow, bunk bed, and a dining hall.
Popular Among Novice Hikers: The Marangu route is popular among hikers with less experience due to its perceived ease.
Duration: A minimum of 5 days is required for this route, with an additional day recommended for better acclimatization.
Cost: The Marangu route is slightly cheaper compared to other options, as you don't need to invest in camping equipment. You can also hire an extra porter for added assistance. It's one of the shortest hikes in terms of mandatory duration, requiring a minimum of 5 days.
Scenic Aspect: While the Marangu route offers unique experiences, it is considered less scenic than other routes because you ascend and descend via the same path.
Ultimately, the decision to choose the Marangu route should be based on your priorities. If budget is your primary concern and you're willing to overlook larger crowds and potentially less impressive scenery, the Marangu route may be the right choice for you. However, it's essential to be well-prepared, consider an extended itinerary for better acclimatization, and be aware of the route's challenges to maximize your chances of reaching Kilimanjaro's summit.
DAY 1: MARANGU GATE – MANDARA HUTS: 7K /MI | 4-5 HRS | RAINFOREST
Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2740m/9000ft
Starting your journey from Moshi, a scenic 45-minute drive will lead you through the picturesque village of Machame and onward to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Here, we'll patiently await the issuance of our permits, affording you the chance to observe the bustling preparations of numerous crews readying themselves for the adventure ahead.
As you ascend, you'll be treated to the enchanting rainforest scenery and winding trails. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the local flora, fauna, and natural wildlife, enhancing your experience. Keep in mind that at these lower elevations, the trail can become muddy and slippery. For added comfort and stability, we strongly recommend the use of gaiters and trekking poles.
DAY 2: MANDARA HUTS – HOROMBO HUTS: 11KM/3MI | 6-8HRS | MOORELAND
Elevation: 2740m/9000ft to 3690m/12,100ft
Following a restful night's sleep and a satisfying breakfast, we depart from the rainforest and proceed along an upward trail. Our journey takes us through heathland, where we'll search for the imposing giant lobelias and graceful groundsels. As we ascend further, we'll enter the expansive moorlands, characterized by the presence of modest shrubs as the primary vegetation.
Around midday, we'll pause for a delightful lunch break, relishing in the awe-inspiring vistas of Mawenzi. By late afternoon, we'll reach our destination at the Horombo Huts, nestled beneath the breathtaking viewpoint of Kibo Summit. As the day progresses, you'll notice temperatures starting to dip, a reminder of the increasing altitude.
DAY 3: HOROMBO HUTS- KIBO HUTS: 10KM/6MI | 6-8HRS | SEMI-DESERT
Elevation: 3690m/12,100ft to 4695m/15,400ft
Following a hearty breakfast, our journey persists as we traverse the diminishing heathland, gradually transitioning into an otherworldly moonscape, characteristic of the expansive saddle that links Mawenzi and Kibo. Here, as we pause for lunch and subsequently cross this remarkably vast saddle, you'll have the opportunity to scrutinize the impending summit ascent up Kibo, which will commence in a mere few hours.
DAY 4: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT: 4KM /2.5 MI UP | 5-7HRS | – HOROMBO HUTS: 14KM /9MI DOWN | 5-6HRS | GLACIERS, SNOW CAPPED SUMMIT
Elevation: 4695m/15,400ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Descent to 3690m/12,100ft
Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.
We continue our way to the summit in a switchback formation through trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion, we ascend through heavy scree and possibly snow towards Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.
Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!
After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment. We begin our steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for uncooperative loose gravel and volcano ash terrain. Well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain. Overnight Mweka Camp.
DAY 5: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – MOSHI: 18KM/11MI |6-7HRS | RAINFOREST
Elevation: 3690m/12,100 to 1830m/6000ft
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here. You return back to the Marangu Park Gate and receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 45 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner, and celebrations!!
NCLUDED IN THE TREKKING PACKAGE:
Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
Airport Transfers
Meals according to the itinerary
Drinking water and Full Board Meals
All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
Gate Transfers
Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
EXCLUDED FROM THE TREKKING PACKAGE:
Gamow bag
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended 20$)
Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation.
Tanzanian VISA
Medication
Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks.
Personal gear including personal rain gear, trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
National/International flights
Additional nights if decent early from the mountain.