+255 719 832 681
+255 719 832 681
Destination
Kilimanjaro
Season
Jan-Dec
Duration
6 Days
From $1300
OVERVIEW
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, is the oldest, most established path on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route with hut accommodations, offering a more comfortable trekking experience compared to camping routes.
This 6-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, increasing your chances of reaching the summit successfully. The route is scenic, passing through lush rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and finally to the icy summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
It’s suitable for first-time climbers, offering a gradual ascent and a well-maintained trail. However, it’s still a challenging trek and requires good physical preparation.
Highlights
Route Name :
Marangu Route
Duration:
6 Days / 5 Nights on the mountain
Difficulty
Medium
Altitude Profile
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870 m) to Mandara Hut (2,700 m)
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Day 3: Acclimatization day at Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), then descend to Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and transfer to Arusha/Moshi
What’s Included
All meals on the trekking
Water and hot drink (coffee and tea) during safari
Hotel/lodge accommodations
Park entrance fees & taxes.
Camping equipments
All things of personal nature
Private Climbing
$6000 per vehicle for 1-2 guests; $1800 for each additional guest, (plus taxes and fees). Maximum per vehicle, 6 guests. No minimum age. This is a private safari.
Rates are dependent on hotel availability at the time of booking.
From $1300
“I recently had an incredible private safari experience with Joppy Tours. Our knowledgeable guide made our game drives in the Serengeti National Park truly unforgettable, spotting wildebeest, zebras, lions, and leopards. The accommodations provided by Joppy Tours were top-notch, offering both comfort and stunning views. The visit to the Ngorongoro Crater was absolutely breathtaking, with sightings of the ‘Big Five’ and a variety of bird species. I highly recommend Joppy Tours for their professionalism and exceptional safari experience.”
Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870 m) – Mandara Hut (2,700 m) Distance: 8 km
Marangu Gate (1,870 m) – Mandara Hut (2,700 m)
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
Itinerary:
After breakfast and a briefing in Moshi/Arusha, you’ll drive to Marangu Gate (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours). After completing registration formalities, begin your trek through the lush rainforest. You may spot blue monkeys or colobus monkeys along the way.
Arrive at Mandara Hut, a charming wooden hut where you’ll spend the night.
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720 m) Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Vegetation Zone: Moorland
Itinerary:
Leave the rainforest and trek into the heath and moorland zone. The trail offers panoramic views of Mawenzi Peak. Enjoy lunch on the trail before continuing to Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (3,720 m) Purpose: Improve acclimatization and success rate for summit
Optional Hike: To Zebra Rocks (3,980 m)
Itinerary:
Spend an extra day at Horombo Hut to acclimatize. Take a short acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks, known for its black-and-white streaks, and return to the hut for lunch and rest.
Day 4: Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
Itinerary:
Hike through the saddle zone, a barren area between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The trail is dry and dusty but offers stunning views. Reach Kibo Hut in the early afternoon and rest before the midnight summit push.
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Distance to summit: 6 km (ascent)
Distance to Horombo: 16 km (descent)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours to summit, 5–6 hours to Horombo
Vegetation Zones: Arctic to Moorland
Itinerary:
Around midnight, begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, passing Gilman’s Point and Stella Point. This is the toughest day—cold, dark, and steep—but incredibly rewarding.
After sunrise at the summit, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and lunch, then continue down to Horombo Hut.
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Transfer to Moshi/Arusha
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
Itinerary:
Descend through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate, where successful climbers receive their certificates:
Green certificate – for reaching Gilman’s Point
Gold certificate – for reaching Uhuru Peak
You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest.
Safari Tour Gallery
FAQS
What should I expect during the game drives in the Serengeti National Park?
During the game drives, you will have the opportunity to explore the vast plains of the Serengeti and spot a wide range of wildlife. This includes herds of wildebeest, zebras, elephants, and predators like lions and leopards. The game drives are conducted in specially designed safari vehicles that offer excellent visibility and comfort.
Will I have access to a knowledgeable guide during the game drives?
Yes, you will be accompanied by an experienced safari guide throughout the game drives. These guides have extensive knowledge about the wildlife, ecosystems, and local culture. They will provide informative commentary and ensure your safety during the safari.
What type of accommodation options are available during the safari?
Accommodation options can vary depending on your preferences and budget. Typically, you can choose between luxury lodges or tented camps located inside or near the national parks. These accommodations offer comfortable amenities, ranging from ensuite bathrooms to dining facilities and scenic views.
Are meals provided during the safari?
Yes, meals are typically provided during the safari. This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Depending on the itinerary, meals may be served at the accommodation facilities or as picnic lunches during the game drives. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.
What wildlife can be seen in the Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Additionally, you can spot giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and various bird species. The dense concentration of wildlife within the crater makes it a remarkable safari destination.
Is there a chance to interact with local communities or learn about the culture?
Yes, opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about the Maasai culture can be arranged. This can include visits to Maasai villages, where you can meet the locals, learn about their traditions, and even participate in cultural activities such as dances and crafts.