Relaxing by the pool, with the vast savanna stretching out before you
"Endless blue ocean in Zanzibar, a true tropical paradise
Chasing the sunset in the savanna, with the Land Cruiser as your front-row seat
Mount Kilimanjaro, towering above the plains in all its majestic glory
"In the heart of the savanna, a Land Cruiser surrounded by roaming buffalo
Elephant gracefully drinking from the waterhole, a moment of serenity in the wild
Explore Africa’s Wild Heart
Tailored Safaris, Timeless Memories
Enjoy safaris and nature
Dive into the Tanzanian culture
Marangu Route: 5 Days
The Marangu Route offers a shorter yet rewarding trek with scenic landscapes, mountain huts, and a chance to summit the "Roof of Africa" in just 5 days and 4 nights. Perfect for adventurers seeking a quick yet unforgettable experience.
About the Marangu Route
Known as the "Coca-Cola Route," the Marangu Route is a well-established path to Kilimanjaro's summit, providing trekkers with comfortable hut accommodations.
Distance: Approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles) round trip.
Duration: 5 days and 4 nights, making it a faster trek than other routes.
Starting Point: Marangu Gate, located on the southeastern side of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Trek Highlights
- Scenic Views: Explore diverse landscapes, from rainforest to alpine desert.
- Comfortable Huts: Stay in communal mountain huts with beds and basic amenities.
- Guided Trekking: Be led by experienced guides, supported by porters and cooks.
- Summit Success: A rewarding trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Trek Highlights
- Comfortable Accommodations: Stay in mountain huts along the route, providing shelter and basic comfort.
- Historic Route: Follow Kilimanjaro’s oldest and most established trail, the "Coca-Cola Route."
- Scenic Landscapes: Trek through rainforest, heath, moorland, and alpine desert zones.
- Summit Achievement: Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters.
5 Days / 4 Nights Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860 meters) to Mandara Hut (2,700 meters).
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters).
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Distance: 12 km (7 miles) | Habitat: Heath and Moorland
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters).
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), then descend to Horombo Hut.
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours (ascent and descent) | Distance: 22 km (14 miles) | Habitat: Arctic (summit) and Heath (descent)
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860 meters).
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours | Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles) | Habitat: Heath and Rainforest
Pros and Cons of Marangu Route
Pros:
- Hut accommodations offer shelter and comfort.
- Shorter duration makes it suitable for those with limited time.
- Cost-effective as it requires fewer days and less gear.
Cons:
- Lower acclimatization opportunities compared to longer itineraries.
- Can be crowded during peak trekking seasons.
- Less scenic variety as ascent and descent follow the same path.
Success Rates
5-Day Itinerary: Approximately 50% success rate. Proper preparation and gradual ascent are crucial for summit success.
Important Considerations
- Acclimatization: Prepare for high altitude by pacing yourself and staying hydrated.
- Physical Preparation: Regular cardiovascular and strength training exercises are recommended before the trek.
- Weather: Ideal trekking seasons are from late June to October and late December to early March.
What's Included
- Two nights at budget Hotel in Moshi (double or triple occupancy) before and after the climb.
- First night includes breakfast; last night includes dinner and breakfast.
- Qualified, experienced guides and mountain crew (guides, porters, cooks, and waiters).
- Salaries for all crew members.
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
- Hut and camping fees.
- Rescue fees (mandatory per park regulations).
- High-quality tents, foam sleeping pads, and cooking equipment.
- Complete cutlery and crockery.
- Pulse oximeters for daily health monitoring.
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Boiled drinking water on the mountain.
- Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfers to and from the Marangu Gate.
- Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
What's Not Included
- Single room supplement at budget Hotel.
- Tips for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal climbing gear (e.g., sleeping bags). Rental options available.
- Car supplement of USD $145 for Lemosho, Rongai, or Shira Routes (if applicable).
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks).
- Emergency oxygen.
- Additional activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included.
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- International and domestic flight tickets.
What Our Trekkers Say
"Reaching the summit was a dream come true. The team at Via Africa Expeditions was incredible, making sure we were safe, prepared, and motivated. Truly unforgettable." - Alex K.
"Kilimanjaro was challenging but worth every step. The guides were knowledgeable and encouraging. Via Africa Expeditions exceeded our expectations!" - Jamie L.
Choose Your Marangu Trek Duration
Explore the Marangu Route with flexible trek durations. Select the option that best suits your experience level and schedule.
"Absolutely the best safari experience! Unforgettable from start to finish." – John Doe
"Incredible views, amazing guides, and a truly unique adventure." – Jane Smith
"Highly recommend! Everything was beyond our expectations." – Michael Brown