Kilimanjaro Ascent: The Marangu Route

The historic hut route, the most direct itinerary to the summit.

Description of the Marangu Route

Nicknamed the "Coca-Cola Route" because it was the first to be commercialized, the Marangu is the oldest and most established route on Kilimanjaro. It is the only itinerary that offers accommodation in huts (dormitories) at every stage, providing appreciated comfort.

Its profile of climbing and descending the same way makes it a shorter trek. However, its rapid ascent in 5 days presents a significant acclimatization challenge, resulting in a lower success rate. We highly recommend it as a 6-day trek, with a crucial acclimatization day at Horombo Hut.

✔︎ Included

  • Guides, porters & cook
  • Nights in mountain huts
  • Meals & purified water on the mountain
  • All transportation and park fees
  • Hyperbaric chamber & oxygen

Excluded

  • International flights and visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal equipment (rental possible)
  • Hotels before/after the trek
  • Tips for the team
Starting from
$1456
per person (5-day trek)

This price is an estimate. All our treks are 100% tailor-made.

Personalize this trek
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1

Start of the Trek from Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

After completing entry formalities at Marangu Gate, your trek begins with a fascinating immersion into the heart of the rainforest. The well-maintained trail winds through the shade of immense, moss-covered trees. It's a pleasant walk where you have a good chance of spotting the magnificent black and white Colobus monkeys. Arriving at Mandara Hut marks your first successful stage on the mountain.

📏 Distance: 8 km
⏱️ Time: 3-4 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 1860m to 2700m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a hut 🛖 Mandara Hut
Trekkers in the lush rainforest of Kilimanjaro
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2

Crossing the Moorlands and Heather

Today, you leave the protection of the rainforest to enter the zone of moors and giant heathers. The landscape opens up spectacularly, offering for the first time breathtaking views of Kibo Peak. You will discover a unique and fascinating vegetation, such as giant senecios. The day ends at Horombo Hut, a complex of several wooden buildings where you will spend the night.

📏 Distance: 12 km
⏱️ Time: 5-6 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 2700m to 3720m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a hut 🛖 Horombo Hut
Moorland landscape with giant senecios on Kilimanjaro
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3

The Alpine Desert to Base Camp

The ascent continues through a landscape that changes radically. You will cross the "saddle," an altitude desert that stretches between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Vegetation becomes sparse, giving way to a lunar and mineral landscape. The pace is slower due to the altitude, allowing you to conserve your strength. You will reach Kibo Hut, the base camp for the final ascent.

📏 Distance: 10 km
⏱️ Time: 5-6 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 3720m to 4700m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a hut 🛖 Horombo Hut
High-altitude desert landscape on Kilimanjaro
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4

The Final Ascent and Descent

The big day! The departure is in the middle of the night, by the light of headlamps. This is the most difficult stage, a true mental and physical challenge. Your effort is rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise from the crater rim at Gilman's Point. You will walk along the snowy ridge to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m), the Roof of Africa. After the celebration, you will begin the long descent to Horombo Hut for a much-deserved night of rest.

📏 Distance: 16 km
⏱️ Time: 10-14 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 4700m to 5895m, then descending to 3720m

Accommodation:

  • Night in a hut 🛖 Kibo Hut
Sunrise at the summit of Kilimanjaro
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5

Final Descent and Celebration

The last hike is a pleasant descent through the moorland and then the rainforest, on the same path as the ascent, to the Marangu Gate. This is the moment to savor your last moments on the mountain, take souvenir photos, and say goodbye to your incredible team. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel for a hot shower and a celebratory dinner to honor your achievement.

📏 Distance: 20 km
⏱️ Time: 5-7 hours
🏔️ Altitude: From 3720m to 1860m

Accommodation:

  • Night at a hotel in Moshi/Arusha
Trekkers celebrating at the Marangu Gate

Preparation: Key to Your Success

When to Go? (The Seasons Chart)

The best period for the ascent is during the dry seasons. Here is a complete overview:

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DRY SEASON
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What Essential Gear to Bring?

Good gear is crucial. We will provide you with a detailed list, but here are the essentials:

Technical Clothing

  • 3-layer system: thermal base layer, fleece, waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex type).
  • Trekking pants and waterproof overpants.
  • Warm down jacket for the summit.
  • Beanie, warm gloves, neck gaiter.

Trekking Equipment

  • High-top, waterproof hiking boots that are already broken in.
  • Daypack (30-40L).
  • Telescopic trekking poles.
  • Headlamp with spare batteries.
  • Glacier sunglasses and 50+ SPF sunscreen.
What Physical Preparation is Needed?

No need to be a top athlete, but good physical condition is necessary. The ascent is a marathon, not a sprint. We recommend starting training at least 2 to 3 months before departure, focusing on:

  • Cardio: Running, cycling, swimming (2-3 times a week).
  • Hiking: Go on multi-hour hikes with elevation changes to get your body used to prolonged effort and to test your gear.
Entry Formalities (Passport & Visa)

Passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. It must also have at least two consecutive blank pages.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa) - The Recommended Way

A visa is mandatory. The simplest and safest method is to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) online before your departure. The cost is **50 US dollars**. Use only the official government website: visa.immigration.go.tz

Health & Recommended Vaccinations

Your health is our priority. You must consult your doctor or an international vaccination center 4 to 6 weeks before your departure.

Yellow Fever: The yellow fever vaccine is not mandatory for travelers coming from Europe, unless you have transited for more than 12 hours in a country where the disease is endemic (e.g., Kenya, Ethiopia...).

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Updates on universal vaccines (Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio).
  • Hepatitis A and Typhoid Fever (related to food and water).

Malaria

Malaria is present in Tanzania. An antimalarial treatment (prophylaxis) is strongly recommended. Also protect yourself from mosquito bites with appropriate repellents for tropical areas, long clothing in the evening, and a mosquito net (provided in all good accommodations).

What to Pack for a Safari?

We advise light clothing in neutral colors for the safari, and warm clothes for mornings and evenings. Don't forget a hat, high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and a pair of binoculars! A small personal first-aid kit is also recommended.

Our #1 Commitment: Your Safety

Adventure is exhilarating, but your safety remains our absolute priority at every stage of the ascent. We make no compromises on the measures implemented to ensure your well-being.

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Certified First Aid Guides

💨

Emergency Oxygen on Every Trek

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Satellite Communication & Tracking

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High-Energy Meals & Purified Water

Ready to Take on the Marangu Route Challenge?

Our team of experts is ready to answer all your questions and start creating your tailor-made ascent.

Receive a personalized quote

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