Mount Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route 6 Days

Mount Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route 6 Days

The ‘Coca cola’ nickname of this route is somewhat misleading, giving the impression that it is easier than the ‘Whiskey’ (Machame) route.  Yes, it is shorter (only 32km to Uhuru Peak) and there is the attraction for some of sleeping in huts rather than camping.  This route does have wonderful views, providing ample photo opportunities of both peaks of Kilimanjaro.  

The huts consist of several dormitories (mixed male and female), a rangers hut, toilet block and a dining hall.  Huts need to be reserved in advance, therefore we require a deposit upon booking so that we can make the appropriate reservation. 

Day 1:     Start: Marangu Gate (1905m) Finish: Mandara Huts (2720m)

                  Total distance: 8.75km

                  Hiking Time (approx.): 3 hours

Marangu gate, the headquarters of Kilimanjaro National Park, lies a 45 minute drive from Moshi town.  Stop at Kisamboni for your picnic lunch before continuing on upwards, with the trail steepening as you pass through the forest.  

Day 2:     Start: Mandara Huts (2720m) Finish: Horombo Huts (3720m)

                  Total distance: 12km

                  Hiking Time (approx.): 6-8 hours

After a short stretch of forest at the start of the day, you will be walking mostly through moorland   You’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way before reaching the Horombo Huts. 

Day 3:      Horombo Huts – Zebra Rocks (4050m) – Mawenzi Huts (4535m) – Horombo Huts

                   Hiking time (approx.): 4-5 hours

Not only does this extra day provide you with extra acclimatisation but you will get to a spectacular viewpoint, seldom seen by others on the mountain.  Leave Horombo huts following a leisurely breakfast to head up to Zebra rocks.

Day 4:     Start: Horombo Huts (3720m) Finish: Kibo Huts (4715m)                                                                     

Total distance: 9km

                  Hiking Time (approx.): 4-6 hours

This day you will pass across the saddle, the rather barren stretch of alpine desert that separates Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.  You’ll arrive here for a late lunch and then rest up in preparation for your summit.

Day 5:

Summit Night:       Kibo Huts (4715m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) back to Kibo Huts                                                                              Total distance: 6.25km

                                    Hiking Time (approx.) 6 hours

                                    Start: Kibo Huts (4715m) to Horombo Huts (7720m)

                                    Total distance: 9km

                                    Hiking Time (approx.): 3-4 hours

Depending on how you have fared with the altitude in the days before, you will be woken at 11pm-12am to start your ascent up to Uhuru Peak.  Upon reaching Gillman’s point you will stop for a well-deserved rest. 

Day 6:      Start: Horombo Huts (3720m) to Marangu Gate (1905m)

Total distance: 20.75km

                  Hiking time: 7-8 hours

 

 A long last day, which will no doubt feel like a walk in the park after yesterday’s efforts.