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kilimanjaro Marangu Route

What is the Marangu Route on the Kilimanjaro Package?

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TANZANIA TRIBE SAFARIS

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The Marangu Route up Kilimanjaro is a favourite choice for adventure seekers eager to conquer the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. Unlike other paths, the Marangu Route boasts hut accommodations and breathtaking scenic views.

As the sole Kilimanjaro Route with sleeping huts and the surprising luxury of Coca-Cola en route, it has garnered nicknames like the “Tourist Route” and the “Coca-Cola Route.” Here are our details of the Marangu Route used for Climbing Kilimanjaro.

Classic and Scenic Path on Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro Marangu Route

The Marangu Route stands as Kilimanjaro’s oldest and most established trail. It promises hikers a classic experience and unveils scenic views of Africa’s tallest peak. This trail has its distinct charm, making every hiker’s journey memorable.

  • The Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Distance is 72 kilometres/45 miles.
  • The Kilimanjaro Climbing Route approaches the mountain from the southeast at the Marangu gate.
  • Throughout the trek, you’ll journey through misty forests, expansive moorlands, and a desert-like alpine region called the Saddle. Navigate snowy, rocky terrains as you approach the Uhuru peak.

But remember, the Marangu Route is considered the least scenic compared to other Kilimanjaro Routes, as the route travels through the same ascent and descent path.

Accommodation in Huts

Kilimanjaro Climbing

One feature that sets the Marangu route apart is the unique hut accommodation. Unlike other routes where tents are the norm, the Climbing Kilimanjaro Marangu Route offers huts with basic amenities.

These shields against unpredictable weather conditions make the journey more comfortable. Trekkers will come across these notable huts during their climb:

  • Mandara Hut
  • Horombo Hut
  • Kibo Hut

However, one shouldn’t mistake providing huts for an easy climb. These shelters have shared facilities, from simple washrooms to dining spaces. This communal nature of the facilities adds to the overall adventure.

Marangu Route Daily Itinerary

Typically, a climb via Marangu takes five to six days, making it an excellent choice for those with time constraints. However, it’s essential to be aware that the condensed time frame may provide less opportunity for acclimatization.

Trekkers from Marangu Gate venture through rainforests, heathlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the ice-capped Kibo summit. With every step, you come closer to touching the African skies. At Tanzania Tribe Safaris, we offer our climbers a seven-day Marangu RouteItinerary for Climbing Kilimanjaro. This 7-Day Marangu Route variation includes an additional day of acclimatization.

DAYSTARTALTITUDE (m)FINISHALTITUDE (m)TIME (hrs)DISTANCE (km)
DAY 1- Arrival Day
2Kilimanjaro National Park Gate1700 mMandara Hut2740m4-5 hours7 km
3Mandara Hut2700 mHorombo Hut3720 m5-6 hours10 km
4Horombo Hut3720 mKibo Hut4700 m4-8 hours10 km
5Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak4700 m to 5895 mUhuru Peak to Horombo Hut3720 m to 3720 m9-12 hours16 km
6Horombo Hut3720 mMarangu Gate1860 m5-6 hours18 km
DAY 7 – Departure Day

Climbing Difficulty

Climbing Difficulty Marangue Route

The Marangu Kilimanjaro Route is often perceived as the most straightforward route to Uhuru Peak. This perception is mainly due to its hut accommodations and direct path. However, don’t be misled.

The challenge of the Marangu route lies in its quicker ascent, which doesn’t always provide enough time for acclimatization. As a result, though it’s known for its “easier” journey, the Marangu Route Success Rate may be lower than some other routes.

Thus, it’s imperative to heed guides’ advice and consider spending an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut.

Scenic Highlights

The journey via the Marangu Route Up Kilimanjaro offers several impressive scenic landmarks.

  • The rainforests at the beginning of the trek are rich in biodiversity, offering trekkers the chance to spot diverse wildlife.
  • As climbers ascend, they transition into the moorlands. The climb is characterised by giant heather and a misty atmosphere, making it look like a scene out of a fantasy novel.
  • A standout landmark on this route is the Zebra Rocks, named for its distinct black and white stripes caused by the rain washing away the ash.
  • Then there’s the impressive view of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, especially as climbers approach the Horombo Huts.

At last, not to forget about the view from the summit, Uhuru Peak- it’s simply the jewel on the crown.

What’s Included in the Package

Our Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages offering climbs via Marangu Route have various provisions. The list is outlined below:

  • Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro Airport and accommodation in Arusha.
  • 2-night hotel stay in Arusha.
  • Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro Gate.
  • Professional mountain guides, cooks, and friendly porters.
  • Three hot daily meals.
  • Sufficient treated drinking water.
  • Hot water for personal washing.
  • Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by KIATO and KINAPA.
  • Government taxes.
  • Portable oxygen tanks & ox meter.
  • Emergency first-aid kit.

Before opting for a package, you can always contact our trekking experts. They will share all the details about Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing via Marangu Route for a safe and comfortable journey.

Choosing Marangu Route for Your Best Kilimanjaro Climbing Experience!

The Marangu Route Up Kilimanjaro is ideal for those wanting a slightly more comfortable experience, thanks to the huts. The shared experiences in these communal huts often result in lasting friendships among climbers.

However, its shorter climb duration means acclimatization is rushed. Hence, those with mountain trekking experience or confidence in their ability to acclimate might find Marangu most suitable.

Looking for an unforgettable experience? Check out our Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages at Tanzania Tribe Safaris!

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