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- 8-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: Marangu Route Adventure with Hut Accommodation
Overview
The Marangu route is one of the most popular and affordable routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, it is the only one that offers hut accommodations instead of tents for overnight stays. The Marangu route takes you directly to the summit and back via the same path. Due to the steep altitude gains each day, this route is best suited for experienced climbers.
The trek typically takes five days, but adding an extra day for acclimatization is highly recommended to increase your chances of summiting. The additional night at the Horombo Huts on Day 4 allows for a much-needed rest and an acclimatization hike, significantly boosting your success rate in reaching the summit.
At Zepacha Kingdom Adventures, we prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the climb. Our team includes professional guides, porters, and a cook who ensure your health is monitored daily and that you’re provided with nutritious meals. Our guides check your health twice a day to ensure you can safely continue the climb, as altitude sickness can develop unexpectedly.
We also provide a comprehensive information package to help you prepare for your Marangu route adventure. This includes essential tips on what gear to bring, how to train for the climb, and detailed information on what to expect throughout your Kilimanjaro adventure.
How fit should you be to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenging feat due to the high altitude and varying temperatures. On average, you’ll walk six to seven hours per day. With a reasonable level of fitness and determination, this climb is within reach for most people. Here are some tips to increase your chances of a successful summit:
- Pace yourself: Taking it slow is essential for acclimatization.
- Prepare physically: Engage in regular hikes or aerobic exercises in the months leading up to the climb to ensure you’re in good shape.
- Consider an extra day: Adding an extra day to your climb gives your body more time to adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness, increasing your chances of reaching the summit.
If you need advice or more details about how to prepare, feel free to reach out to us! We’re here to help you conquer Africa’s highest peak.
Included/Exclude
- All required entry fees and permits
- Professional and experienced guides, staff, and support team
- Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Daily meals as per the itinerary
- Transportation for all scheduled activities
- Necessary equipment for activities where applicable
- Bottled water during excursions
- Cultural experiences and community visits where included
- Emergency support and basic first aid services
- International and domestic flights
- Visa and travel document fees
- Travel insurance (recommended for emergencies and cancellations)
- Personal expenses such as toiletries, souvenirs, and extra purchases
- Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
- Tips for guides, staff, and service providers
- Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Laundry services during the trip
Tour Plan
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for a briefing on your upcoming Kilimanjaro adventure. Take time to relax and prepare for your climb.
- Starting Elevation: 1,860 m (6,102 ft)
- Ending Elevation: 2,720 m (8,923 ft) After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate where your Kilimanjaro trek officially begins. Walk through the lush rainforest, enjoying scenic views along the way to Mandara Huts for your first overnight stay.
- Starting Elevation: 2,720 m (8,923 ft)
- Ending Elevation: 3,720 m (12,204 ft) Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the heath and moorland zones. You’ll experience fantastic views as you ascend to Horombo Huts, where you'll spend the night.
- Starting Elevation: 3,720 m (12,204 ft)
- Ending Elevation: 4,720 m (15,485 ft) The landscape becomes more barren as you approach the desert-like terrain leading to Kibo Huts. Here, you'll prepare for your midnight summit push. Rest and refuel as you prepare for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- Starting Elevation: 4,720 m (15,485 ft)
- Summit Elevation: 5,895 m (19,340 ft)
- Ending Elevation: 3,720 m (12,204 ft) Start your summit trek around midnight, navigating steep switchbacks and reaching Uhuru Peak—Africa's highest point—at sunrise. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Horombo Huts for a well-deserved rest.
- Starting Elevation: 3,720 m (12,204 ft)
- Ending Elevation: 1,860 m (6,102 ft) After breakfast, continue your descent back through the lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Transfer to your hotel for a celebratory evening.
After your successful Kilimanjaro climb, relax at the hotel before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.