8 Days Kilimanjaro

Marangu Route

Overview

The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only Kilimanjaro trail with hut accommodations, making it a popular choice for trekkers seeking comfort. This 8-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, increasing summit success rates. The trail offers a gradual ascent, passing through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft).

Itinerary

Upon landing at the airport, you'll be whisked away to your hotel, marking the start of your Tanzanian adventure. Here, you will meet your guide who will provide a comprehensive briefing on the incredible journey ahead. Afterward, take the time to rest or explore the vibrant city of Arusha, known as the gateway to Tanzania's world-renowned national parks. The hotel staff will be more than happy to recommend exciting activities and hidden gems around the area, ensuring you have a memorable first day in this beautiful country.

Meals - Not Included

Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel

Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia

Your journey starts at Marangu Gate, the first step to the Roof of Africa. This path introduces you to Kilimanjaro's ecosystems, guiding you through lush rainforests alive with exotic bird calls and ancient trees. It's a gentle introduction, designed for both safety and comfort with well-marked trails and expert guides. As you reach Mandara Hut, you're not just moving towards higher altitudes but immersing in nature's tranquility. This stage is more than a trek, it's the beginning of an unforgettable expedition into the heart of Tanzania's natural beauty.

Hike - 8 km | 4-5 hours

Accommodation(overnight) - Mandara Hut 2690m AMSL

Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trek from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut escalates your adventure to new heights. This leg of the journey reveals the stark beauty of alpine moorlands, stretching under the vast African sky. The terrain changes, showcasing Kilimanjaro's unique flora, including the striking giant lobelias and groundsel. As you ascend, you’ll notice the air thinning, a clear sign of your progress up this majestic mountain. Your guides, experts in Kilimanjaro treks, ensure a steady pace for optimal altitude acclimatisation. Reaching Horombo Hut, you're not only halfway to Uhuru Peak but also deeper into your personal journey of discovery and endurance.

Hike - 12 km | 6-8 hours

Accommodation(overnight) - Horombo Hut 3700m AMSL

Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Embarking from Horombo Hut to Zebra Rock marks a pivotal day in your Kilimanjaro expedition. This stage serves as a crucial part of your altitude acclimatisation, preparing you for the summit's demands. The trek to Zebra Rock showcases the stark, breathtaking contrasts of Kilimanjaro’s landscape. Named for its unique, striped pattern, Zebra Rock is a highlight for climbers, offering a picturesque backdrop for memories and photos. The journey back to Horombo Hut allows you to reflect on your achievements and the challenges ahead. This acclimatisation day not only aids in adjusting to Kilimanjaro's altitude but also enriches your connection with the mountain's unique beauty and resilience.

Hike - 5 km | 3-4 hours

Accommodation(overnight) - Horombo Hut 3700m AMSL

Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The journey from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut propels your adventure into the alpine desert zone, where Kilimanjaro reveals its moon-like terrain. This stretch is where your determination is matched with the stark, majestic beauty of the high altitude wilderness. The trail becomes more challenging, with rocky paths and thinner air, yet every step brings you closer to the dream of Uhuru Peak. Your guides, skilled in Kilimanjaro trekking, navigate you through this lunar landscape, ensuring your safety and motivating your spirit. Reaching Kibo Hut, you’re at the edge of night-time ascent. Here, amidst the silence of the alpine desert, you rest and gather strength for the summit push. This stage is not just a test of endurance but a profound journey through some of the most surreal landscapes on Earth.

Hike - 9 km | 5-7 hours

Accommodation(overnight) - Kibo Hut 4710m AMSL

Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The final ascent from Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak is the highlight of your Kilimanjaro journey. This stage begins in the early hours of the morning under the stars as you embark on the most challenging but rewarding part of the climb. The journey to Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro's highest point, requires determination, but the sunrise over Africa from the summit is unrivalled, a moment of pure awe and triumph. At Uhuru Peak you stand on the summit of Africa, a testament to your courage and endurance. The descent to the Horombo Hut takes you back to civilisation step by step. This stage is a profound testament to personal achievement and the spirit of adventure and marks the end of a transformative journey that tests boundaries and expands horizons.

Hike - 20 km | 10-13 hours

Summit - Uhuru Peak

Accommodation(overnight) - Machame Camp 3020m AMSL

Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Descending from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, you reflect on your journey up Kilimanjaro. The forests welcome you back, echoing your achievements. This path is more than a return, it’s a moment to savor the adventure and the transformation within. Reaching Marangu Gate, you’ve not only completed a climb but have also embarked on a new chapter of life, rich with memories and newfound resilience. With every step towards the gate, you carry the spirit of Kilimanjaro with you, a lasting bond with the mountain’s majesty.

Hike - 20 km | 5-7 hours

Meals - Breakfast, Lunch

Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel

Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia

Enjoy a last delicious breakfast as the rising sun bathes the surrounding landscape in golden light. Relive the great memories of the past few days. Your driver will transfer you to the airport on time. Please note that this does not have to be the end of your trip. You always have the option to combine your Tanzania trip with another tour. We wish you a pleasant flight and goodbye.

Meals - Breakfast

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