Marangu route:

This is one of the most preferred and scenic route up  Kilimanjaro, and known as the "Coca-Cola route". Marangu route is the most popular route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.  It is the cheapest  route, and it can be climbed within less days, thereby getting to the summit one day earlier than on the Machame route. This provides a shorter acclimatisation period.

A climber can as well spend an extra day on the mountain for acclimatization on Marangu route. This extends the route to a 6-day march, greatly increasing your chances of mount Kilimanjaro climbing success. Hut accommodation on the Marangu route forms one of the main differences, compared to the other Mount Kilimanjaro routes. It offers you the relative luxury of being able to sleep in huts along the entire Marangu route. Mineral water, soft drinks, chocolates and beers are also sold at all the camps on this Mount Kilimanjaro route. All your Mountain climbing equipment and supplies are portered and a cook prepares all your meals.

Day 1: Arusha - Mandara

After breakfast, drive to Moshi then on to the Marangu Park Gate, the set off point for your three hour hike to Mandara Hut in which you cover 9 km. Here, we are at 2,774m above sea level on your first overnight on Kilimanjaro.

Day 2: Mandara - Horombo

Begin your trek to Horombo hut in an average hiking time of 8 hours, lunch enroute. In clear weather Mawenzi and Kibo peaks can be seen. Dinner and overnight at the hut, altitude 3,761m.

Day 3: Horombo - Kibo

After breakfast, hike 13 km to Kibo hut, 4,732 m above sea level in an average hiking time of 6 hours. You will now encounter spectacular mountain vegetation like lobelia, giant cactus and groundsel.

Day 4: Kibo - Horombo via Gilman's Point and Uhuru Peak.

Wake up at 02.00 a.m. for a pre-down attempt of the summit. It takes 5 hours to Gilman?s Point 5,681 m above sea level. From Gilman?s it takes 1 hours to the summit Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,896 m above sea level. Descend to Horombo hut for overnight.

Day 5: Horombo - Arusha

After breakfast, descend to the Marangu Park Gate via Mandara. You will be transferred to your Arusha hotel for overnight.

Compare with Umbwe Route

The Mount Kilimanjaro Umbwe route is one of the shortest routes to the Southern Glaciers and the Western Breach. It is probably the most scenic, non-technical route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is quite taxing, primarily due to the relatively fast ascent to Mount Kilimanjaro higher altitude, but the rewards are plentiful. Fewer climbers, pristine mountain forest and shorter mountain walking distances make it a great option for fit mountain hikers. Add to your mountain climbing experience – an overnight in the crater!! Be one of a few fortunate mount Kilimanjaro climbers to spend a night in Africa's largest volcano. This option is highly recommended, as this will be the only opportunity to get close to the beautiful and fascinating glaciers of Mount Kilimanjaro and to be able to visit the ash pit.