Marangu Route
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Distance: 82 km (50 mi)
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Elevation gain: 1,843m to 5,895m (6,046 ft to 19,341 ft)
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Duration: 6 days
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Acclimatization: Good
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Terrain: Varied, including rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and artic
Overview of the Marangu Route on Mount Kilimanjaro
The Marangu Route, often known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the oldest and one of the most popular paths to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. This traditional route offers a unique and historic trekking experience, as it follows the path of the first successful Kilimanjaro summit by Hans Meyer in 1889. It is known for its hut accommodations. This is the only route on the mountain that provides trekkers with dormitory-style shelters, making it a distinctive option among Kilimanjaro routes.
Key Highlights of the Marangu Route:
1. Hut Accommodation: The Marangu Route is the only Kilimanjaro route that offers overnight stays in permanent huts rather than tents, providing a level of comfort not found on other routes. The dormitory-style huts—Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo—feature bunk beds with simple mattresses and pillows, offering extra protection from the elements, especially during the rainy seasons. This makes Marangu an attractive option for those who prefer not to camp and want added shelter from the wind and rain.
2. Shortest and Steadiest Ascent: The Marangu route is one of the shortest ways to reach the summit, usually six days to complete. The climb is gradual with moderate inclines, making it a popular choice for trekkers who prefer a more gentle ascent. However, it's important to note that while this route is often considered the easiest, the approach to the final camp, Kibo Hut, involves a significant gain in elevation, which can be physically demanding, especially on summit day.
3. Acclimatization Challenges: The Marangu Route has limited opportunities for acclimatization because of its shorter length and steady gradient. The six-day itinerary includes an acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, which increases the chances of a successful summit.
4. Popular During Rainy Seasons: The Marangu Route is especially convenient during the rainy seasons (from mid-March to late May and late October to December) because the huts offer protection against the weather. This makes it the preferred choice for climbers during these months, as it provides a drier and more comfortable experience compared to routes that rely on tents.
5. A Classic Kilimanjaro Experience: The Marangu Route provides trekkers with a classic Kilimanjaro adventure. It takes them through various climatic zones, from tropical rainforest to alpine desert, before reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak. The picturesque trail offers sweeping views and an immersive experience of Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems. However, unlike other routes, Marangu uses the same path for both ascent and descent, which leads to a repetition of scenery and more crowded trails.
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6. Historic and Cultural Appeal: The Marangu Route follows the path of the first recorded summit, allowing trekkers to trace the footsteps of history. The trail includes significant landmarks such as Mandara Huts, named after a prominent Chagga chief, and Gilman’s Point, a crucial checkpoint on the way to Uhuru Peak.
7. Accessibility and Convenience: The Marangu Route starts at the Marangu Gate and is easily accessible and relatively straightforward. It is a popular choice for first-time climbers and those with limited time. The structured approach with hut accommodations adds predictability and comfort, making it appealing to those seeking a well-established trekking route.
The Marangu Route is an excellent choice for those interested in a classic Kilimanjaro climb with added comfort and a rich sense of history. This route offers unique hut accommodations, a steady ascent, and is suitable for climbing during the rainy season, making it a popular option.
Marangu Route FAQ for Kilimanjaro Climbing
1. What makes the Marangu Route unique compared to other Kilimanjaro routes?
The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the only route on Kilimanjaro that offers dormitory-style hut accommodations rather than camping. This makes it a popular choice for trekkers who prefer a bit more comfort, especially during the rainy seasons when staying in huts provides protection from the elements. The route is also known for its historical significance, as it is the oldest path up the mountain and was the same route used by the first successful summit in 1889.
2. How difficult is the Marangu Route, and who is it suitable for?
The Marangu Route is considered moderately difficult and is suitable for a wide range of trekkers. It has a relatively steady and gradual incline compared to other routes, but it is still physically demanding, particularly on summit day. The 6-day itinerary offers a better acclimatization profile and is recommended for most climbers.
3. How long does the Marangu Route take, and what is the total distance?
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We offer a 6-day itinerary. The total trekking distance is approximately 82 km (50 miles). Including arrival and departure days, the full expedition typically takes 8-10 days. The 6-day itinerary allows more time for acclimatization, thereby increasing the chances of a successful summit.
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4. What is the summit success rate for the Marangu Route?
The Marangu Route has an average summit success rate of around 87% for the 6-day itinerary, which is relatively high compared to historical data for this route.
5. Why is Marangu called the "Coca-Cola Route"?
The Marangu Route is often known as the "Coca-Cola Route" because it is considered more comfortable and tourist-friendly, with hut accommodations. Trekkers can also buy soft drinks, bottled water, and snacks like candy bars at some huts along the way, which adds to the nickname. However, it's important to remember that climbing Kilimanjaro is challenging no matter which route you choose.
6. How does Marangu compare to other routes like Machame or Lemosho?
Compared to the Machame and Lemosho routes, Marangu is unique in its hut accommodations and is generally considered less physically demanding, although it does present acclimatization challenges. While Marangu is shorter and offers fewer acclimatization opportunities, routes like Machame and Lemosho provide more diverse landscapes, better acclimatization profiles, and often higher success rates on longer itineraries.
7. When is the best time to climb the Marangu Route?
The Marangu Route is best climbed during the dry seasons, from July to September, when the weather is most stable. However, the route is also suitable for climbing during the rainy seasons (mid-March to late May and late October to December) because of the hut accommodations, which provide protection from rain and wind.
8. What kind of scenery can be expected on the Marangu Route?
The Marangu Route provides a traditional Kilimanjaro experience, showcasing scenic views of tropical rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glacial zones. Although it follows the same path for the ascent and descent, the route offers a captivating journey through Kilimanjaro's varied ecosystems. Trekkers will encounter iconic Kilimanjaro landscapes, including panoramic views of the mountain's peaks and valleys.
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9. Are there showers available on the Marangu Route?
Certainly! Here's the revised text: "Yes, there are basic cold showers available at Mandara Hut and Horombo Hut. These facilities provide some comfort, but it's important to note that the showers are unheated. To avoid the risk of catching a cold in the mountain's chilly climate, it's advisable to use the showers sparingly.
10. Is the Marangu Route the easiest route up Kilimanjaro?
It's important to note that even though the Marangu Route is often considered the easiest route to climb Kilimanjaro due to its hut accommodations and gradual ascent, it should not be underestimated. The route lacks "climb high, sleep low" acclimatization opportunities, which can make it more challenging than expected. Opting for the 6-day itinerary provides a better chance of success, making the route manageable but still demanding, especially on summit day.
Six Day Itinerary
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Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Your journey starts with a drive from Arusha to Marangu Gate, where you will complete the necessary formalities before beginning your trek. You will pass through a lush, tropical rainforest, with the opportunity to spot blue monkeys at the upper forest edge. As you continue upwards, the trail will open up, offering views of stunning hillsides as you head towards Mandara Hut for the night.
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Elevation: 1,843 m to 2,700 m / 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
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Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
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Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
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Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
The second day begins with a continued climb through the rainforest. The path soon opens to a high moorland, providing the first glimpses of Kibo and Mawenzi, two of Kilimanjaro's three volcanic peaks. The day concludes at Horombo Hut.
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Elevation: 2,700 m to 3,720 m / 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
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Distance: 12 km / 7 mi
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Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
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Habitat: Heath
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut (Acclimatization Day)
Today is an acclimatization day designed to help your body adjust to the altitude. You will hike to Mawenzi Ridge, which has stunning views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. After some exploration, you will return to Horombo Hut for another night's rest.
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Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge
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Elevation: 3,720 m to 4,390 m / 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
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Distance: 5 km / 3 mi
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Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
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Habitat: Heath
Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut
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Elevation: 4,390 m to 3,720 m / 14,400 ft to 12,205 ft
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Distance: 5 km / 3 mi
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Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
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Habitat: Heath
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
The trail ascends gradually as you cross the barren and vast lunar desert of the "Saddle" between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The day ends at Kibo Hut, where you'll rest and have an early dinner to prepare for the summit push.
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Elevation: 3,720 m to 4,703 m / 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
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Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
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Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
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Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
At midnight, the summit push begins. This is the most demanding and most mentally challenging part of the trek. As you ascend through the darkness, you'll take short, frequent breaks to cope with the cold and high altitude. Upon reaching Gilman's Point (5,681 m / 18,600 ft), you'll be treated to breathtaking views over Mawenzi Peak just as the sun rises. The final stretch brings you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro and Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you'll descend to Horombo Hut for the night.
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak
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Elevation: 4,703 m to 5,895 m / 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
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Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
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Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
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Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
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Elevation: 5,895 m to 3,720 m / 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
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Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
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Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
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Habitat: Heath
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
On your final day, you will trek downhill through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you will collect your summit certificate and be met by a vehicle that will drive you back to your hotel in Arusha for some well-earned rest.
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Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,843 m / 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
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Distance: 20 km / 12 mi
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Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
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Habitat: Rainforest
