9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the 6-day Marangu Route with huts
Overview
The Marangu route might be one of the cheapest and quickest routes to the summit, but it still has plenty of wow moments in store for you. You still get to dive into the mountain’s nature on different trails and enjoy the view from the top.
The downside: it can be quite busy, especially during peak season, you have less time to get used to the altitude, and you take the same route for your descent which is why you get to see less of the spectacular scenery.
However, if you’re not too much into camping, you’ll be happy to hear that this route offers hut accommodation. And one last fun fact: it’s also called the “Coca-Cola” route… just in case you want to impress your fellow hikers and guides
Gole africa offers a unique service throughout the climb
Climbing Kilimanjaro is the ultimate challenge! Little details can make a world of difference, which is why with us, you climb with professional guides, porters, and a cook. They take care of you during your ascent via the Marangu route, by checking your health twice a day and serving you delicious food. Sounds like a bit much? Not if you want to reach the top! Because we know that altitude sickness can creep up on you unnoticed and that proper nutrition* is essential to keep you going during a strenuous climb.
Besides, we offer a comprehensive information package to help you prepare for your climb via the Marangu route. It gives information about Tanzania and Mount Kilimanjaro, how to best prepare and what materials to buy or rent. And did we mention that we are a partner of the Kilimanjaro Responsible Travel Organisation (KRTO)? That means we take care of our crew and the mountain during our climb, making sure you can climb with a clear conscience. Are you ready for an unforgettable experience?
*If you would like to see the menu, we can send it in advance.
Photo Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport for your climb
When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport our Gole Africa guide is there waiting for you. He then drops you off at your hotel, where you can relax from your flight.
Preparation for your climb: You meet your guide before the start of your climb, where he briefs you and offers advice on what to wear, what to pack, and other important tips to make your climb as comfortable as possible.
Day 2 Marangu Route (1/6) | Marangu Gate (1,860 m/6,102 ft) - Mandara Huts (2,720 m/8,923 ft)
In the early morning, your guide takes you from the hotel to Marangu Gate at 1,860 m. The initial part of the trek takes you through coffee and banana plantations, as well as untouched rainforest. Take this opportunity to admire the stunning views of lush vegetation and diverse wildlife along the way. After a seven-hour hike, you reach the Mandara Huts. In the afternoon, you can choose to visit the Maundi Crater, a volcanic crater near the huts, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. As this is your first day at this altitude, remember to drink plenty of water!
Day 3 Marangu Route (2/6) | Mandara Huts (2,720 m/8,923 ft) - Horombo Huts (3,720 m/12,204 ft)
From Mandara Huts, the landscape slowly changes. You trek through picturesque landscapes, encounter unique flora and fauna, and immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro. The higher you go, the less vegetation can be seen and the more it starts to look like a lunar landscape. The air also grows thinner with altitude. Experience the thrill of ascending higher, as you make your way to the cozy and comfortable Horombo Huts for dinner and overnight.
Day 4 Umbwe Route (3/6) | Barranco Camp (3,950 m/12,959 ft) - Barranco Wall (3,977 m/13,047 ft) - Karanga Camp (4,040 m/13,254 ft)
Today is your additional acclimatization day. After breakfast, you go for a hike towards Kibo Huts and back. This gives your body ample time to get used to the altitude. After lunch, you have the opportunity to take some pictures of the Mawenzi Volcano, discover the area or just rest. Have a good night’s sleep at the Horombo Huts again to be ready for the next day.
Day 5 Marangu Route (4/6) | Horombo Huts (3,720 m/12,204 ft) - Kibo Huts Camp (4,720 m/15,485 ft)
Witness the dramatic landscape change as your hike leads through a kind of Alpine desert to a point between the two famous mountain peaks Kibo and Mawenzi. The landscape here is more open and bare and offers less shelter. The hike is challenging, but the thrill of approaching the majestic summit of Mount Kilimanjaro drives you to keep going. You arrive at Kibo Huts Camp for lunch. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and make sure you relax for the big day ahead!
Day 6 Marangu Route (5/6) | Kibo Huts Camp (4,720 m/15,485 ft) - Uhuru Peak (5,895 m/19,340 ft) - Horombo Huts (3,720 m/12,204 ft)
At night you start your ascent to conquer the majestic Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa! The biggest challenge lies in the first part of this climb, until you reach Gilman’s Point. From here, Uhuru Peak is not far away, and relatively easy to climb. Once at the summit, enjoy a beautiful sunrise, which is quite impressive at this height! You descend through the Kibo Huts Camp down to the Horombo Huts, where you have dinner and overnight. You are on your feet for about twelve hours today, so prepare for a challenging but rewarding day!
Day 7 Marangu Route (6/6) | Horombo Huts (3,720 m/12,204 ft) - Marangu Gate (1,860 m/6,102 ft) - hotel
Your incredible journey comes to an end as you descend to Marangu Gate, the exit of Kilimanjaro National Park. This wonderful five to six-hour walk takes you through beautiful forests. Once at Marangu Gate, your guide drives you back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest and a celebration of your remarkable achievement. Unforgettable memories, breathtaking views, and a true sense of accomplishment await and will stay with you forever!
Day 8 - 9 Flight home from Kilimanjaro International Airport after the climb
Sadly, this is the end of your holiday and the time to go home has arrived. Enjoy your last hours in Tanzania before our driver comes to pick you up and takes you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Still longing for more? It’s also possible to add a few days of safari or a beach holiday to your Kilimanjaro adventure!
- All park fees and rescue fees
- Mountain crew: guides, porters, and cook
- Accommodation in tents with sleeping mattresses
- All meals during the climb
- Treated drinking water
- Transfers to/from the mountain gate
- Flights and visas
- Personal gear (available for rental)
- Tips for guides and porters
- Travel insurance
- Pre/post-trek accommodation (available on request)
Related Safaris
9-Day Trip: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Starting at High Altitude on the 6-Day Lemosho-Shira Route
- Spectacular Shira plateau
- Panoramic hikes to acclimatize
- Certified for ethical climbing
9-day trip: climbing Kilimanjaro via the challenging 6-day Rongai Route
- Spectacular Shira plateau
- Panoramic hikes to acclimatize
- Certified for ethical climbing
11-Day Trip: Gentle Ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro via the 8-Day Northern Circuit Route
- Remote mountain camps
- Incredible views from the top
- Certified for ethical climbing