The coca-cola route
6 Days Kilimanjaro Trek – Marangu Route
$1885-2275 USD
ppSafari summary
The Marangu route which is often known by it’s other popular name “Coca-Cola” route, is among the first established routes on Kilimanjaro that date from a long time ago. it is also worth noting that this is the only route which offers sleeping huts so far, replacing camping style with dormitory-like accommodations. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut.
Many favor Marangu because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope and direct path. However, the short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization fairly difficult. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. Marangu is, unfortunately, less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent are along the same path. It is also the most crowded route for that reason.
Orongai African Safaris offers Marangu as five or six day private climb. The five day variation does not have an acclimatization day on day three at Horombo Hut.
About this tour
| Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
| Main focus | Hiking | trekking | |
| Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
| Best months | January, February, May, June, July, August, September, October | |
| Countries | ||
| Parks |
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut We depart Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. At the upper edge of the forest line, we have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut. Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft Distance: 8 km/5 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Rain Forest Meals & Drinks All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 2
Kilimanjaro
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut We start the day continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. We may get our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks – two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro. Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft Distance: 12 km/7 miles Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Heath Meals & Drinks All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 3
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut. Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft Distance: 5 km/3 miles Hiking Time: 2-3 hours Habitat: Heath Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut Elevation (ft): 14,400 ft to 12,205 Distance: 5 km/3 miles Hiking Time: 1-2 hours Habitat: Heath Meals & Drinks All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 4
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day. Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft Distance: 10 km/6 miles Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Meals & Drinks All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
Day 5
Kilimanjaro
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep. Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft Distance: 6 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 6-8 hours Habitat: Arctic Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft Distance: 16 km/10 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heath Meals & Drinks All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included) End of tour Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost. You’ll be dropped off at the airport (or hotel).
Day 6
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi. Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft Distance: 20 km/12 miles Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rain Forest Meals & Drinks All meals included Drinking water (Other drinks not included) End of tour Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra
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