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
Discover the Vibrant Culture and Beauty of Zanzibar
Comfortable Safari Camps and Authentic Adventure Lodges
Embark on Unforgettable Safaris Through the Wild
Comfortable Safari Camps and Authentic Adventure Lodges
Marangu Route: 6 Days / 5 Nights
The Marangu Route offers a rewarding trek with scenic landscapes, mountain huts, and a chance to summit the "Roof of Africa" in 6 days and 5 nights. Perfect for adventurers seeking a balanced and 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: 6 days and 5 nights, allowing for better acclimatization.
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.
6 Days / 5 Nights Itinerary
Day 1: Trek from Marangu Gate (1,860 meters) through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,700 meters).
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2: Ascend through moorland to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters).
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours | Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Acclimatization day at Horombo Hut. Optional hike to Mawenzi Saddle (4,315 meters) for better acclimatization.
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours (optional) | Distance: 8 km (5 miles, round trip) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Continue through alpine desert to Kibo Hut (4,703 meters).
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours | Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Early morning summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), followed by descent to Horombo Hut.
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (summit and descent) | Distance: 22 km (14 miles) | Habitat: Arctic
Day 6: Descend back to Marangu Gate (1,860 meters) for your certificate and return to Moshi.
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours | Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles) | Habitat: Moorland and Rainforest
Pros and Cons of Marangu Route
Pros:
- Hut accommodations offer shelter and comfort.
- Additional acclimatization day increases summit success rates.
- Scenic landscapes and relatively easier trails.
Cons:
- Can be crowded during peak trekking seasons.
- Less scenic variety as ascent and descent follow the same path.
Success Rates
6-Day Itinerary: Approximately 60-70% success rate. Proper preparation and gradual ascent are crucial for summit success.
Important Considerations
- Acclimatization: The additional day helps your body adjust to the high altitude.
- 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.
Marangu Route: 6 Days / 5 Nights
What Our Trekkers Say
"The 6-day Marangu trek was an incredible journey. The Via Africa Expeditions team made every step memorable with their expertise and care. Reaching Uhuru Peak felt amazing!" - Alex K.
"Choosing the Marangu Route for 6 days was the best decision. The guides were outstanding, the views breathtaking, and the experience unforgettable. Via Africa Expeditions made it all seamless!" - Jamie L.
Choose Your Marangu Trek Duration
Experience the beauty of Kilimanjaro through the Marangu Route. Our 6-day trek offers the perfect balance of adventure and acclimatization for an unforgettable climb.
"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