The best Lemosho Route in 8-Days to the Roof of Africa
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This 6-day all-inclusive tour offers a unique combination of comfort and adventure, making it perfect for those seeking a straightforward and well-supported trek to the summit of Uhuru Peak. Known for its hut accommodations, moderate difficulty, and beautiful landscapes, the Marangu Route is the ideal choice for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Why Choose the Marangu Route?
1. Affordable and Accessible
The Marangu Route is the most budget-friendly way to climb Kilimanjaro. Its shorter duration (6 days) means fewer nights on the mountain, reducing park fees and overall costs. Additionally, the route’s hut accommodations eliminate the need for costly camping gear, helping you save on equipment rentals while still providing comfort and shelter.
Hut Accommodations
Unlike other routes where camping is required, the Marangu Route offers mountain huts with dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities. This not only adds to your comfort but also reduces costs associated with camping gear. The huts provide protection from the elements, particularly during the cold nights, making the climb more manageable, especially for first-time trekkers.
Shorter Duration
The 6-day itinerary allows climbers to reach the summit in a shorter time frame than other routes, making it more budget-friendly. With fewer days on the mountain, you’ll save on park fees and logistics, while still having a great chance of reaching Uhuru Peak with the help of expert guides.
All-Inclusive Features
This all-inclusive package ensures you have everything you need for a successful climb, without hidden fees. From professional guides to full meals, accommodation, park fees, and gear assistance, this budget-friendly option provides a worry-free adventure to the top of Africa’s highest peak.
Ideal for First-Time Climbers
The Marangu Route’s gradual ascent and well-trodden path make it the perfect option for beginner climbers. The route is non-technical and more straightforward, with fewer steep sections, making it accessible to those with limited high-altitude trekking experience.
6-Day Marangu Route Itinerary
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,870m) to Mandara Hut (2,720m)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Elevation Gain: 850m
Terrain: Rainforest
Itinerary Overview: After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate for registration. The trek begins through the lush rainforest, where you’ll hike beneath a canopy of towering trees and dense foliage. Look out for wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds. You’ll reach Mandara Hut in the afternoon, where you’ll rest for the night.
Overnight: Mandara Hut (2,720m)
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,720m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,000m
Terrain: Heath and Moorland
Itinerary Overview: The trail continues out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, where the landscape becomes more open with rolling heather and rocky paths. As you hike, you’ll begin to see the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi in the distance. Arrive at Horombo Hut by late afternoon to rest and acclimatize.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 983m
Terrain: Alpine Desert
Itinerary Overview: The trek leads you through the alpine desert, with vast stretches of rocky, barren terrain. You’ll cross the Saddle, a flat expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, before arriving at Kibo Hut in the afternoon. This is your final stop before the summit push, so rest and prepare for the midnight ascent.
Overnight: Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut
Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles) (6 km ascent, 14 km descent)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,192m (to Uhuru Peak) | Descent: 2,175m (to Horombo Hut)
Summit Overview: The final ascent begins at midnight. You’ll trek through the cold, rocky terrain, ascending steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. From here, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you’ll experience the incredible sunrise and breathtaking views. After celebrating at the summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest, and then continue down to Horombo Hut.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,870m)
Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation Loss: 1,850m
Itinerary Overview: After breakfast, begin your final descent through the moorlands and back into the rainforest. You’ll reach Marangu Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificate and celebrate with your trekking team. From there, transfer back to Moshi for a well-earned rest.
Overnight: Comfortable hotel in Moshi.
mbo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,870m)
Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Descent: 1,850m
Your final day of trekking takes you back down through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate. After celebrating your accomplishment, transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Moshi
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or continue with other travel plans.
Package Inclusion & Exclusions
Inclusion
- Guide, Porters
- Park Fees, Tax
- Gate transfer
- Crew wages
- Environment fees
- During the climb you will be camping throughout you climb!
- Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
- Drinking water
- Cook
Exclusion
- Flights
- Tipping the crew
- Visas
