7 Days Marangu Route

Overview

This is the easiest route to the summit of Kilimanjaro, sometimes called the Coca-Cola Route. The Marangu route takes you at a gentle pace through forests, moorlands and then across The Saddle, a high-altitude desert separating the main summit, Kibo, 5896m, from craggy Mawenzi, 5149m, to Kibo Hut.

From here an early start is made for the ascent to Uhuru Point (the highest top of Kibo). The path zigzags up steep scree which is easier to climb when frozen. The views from the crater rim at Gillman's Point at dawn can be spectacular. Uhuru Peak lies a further 1h30min. Around the rim.

Accommodation on the mountain is in comfortable huts. You will need a sleeping bag, warm clothes and walking poles. This is a tough walking trip but within the limits of a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas. An extra day for acclimatization to the altitude is recommended at Horombo from where there are various walks to enjoy.

Itineraray

Day 1

Arrive hotel in Moshi / Arusha

Day 2

Drive to Marangu Gate. Walk through the rain forest to Mandara hut (4h, 2743m).

Day 3

Leave the forest and cross open moor land to Horombo hut (5h, 3760m).

Day 4

Rest and acclimatization day at Horombo Hut. Day walk to Zebra Rocks or to Mawenzi Hut.

Day 5

Walk through moorland then across The Saddle to Kibo hut (5h, 4730m).

Day 6

Very early start for the summit on steep scree up to Gillman's Point (5h, 5681m), continue to Uhuru Peak (1h30min., 5895m). Descend to Kibo Hut for lunch and a rest before descending to Horombo hut (about 13h total walking time).

Day 7

Descend to Marangu gate (5h). Drive back to your hotel in Moshi