6-Day Marangu Route – The Classic Kilimanjaro Experience with Hut Accommodations
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is a popular choice for climbers seeking comfort and an accessible path to Mount Kilimanjaro’s Uhuru Peak (5,895m). It is the only route that provides hut accommodations, making it a great option for those who prefer to avoid camping. The trek offers gradual ascents, scenic trails through rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, and excellent acclimatization opportunities. This 6-day itinerary ensures a rewarding climb to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain.
| Included |
- Transfers from Arusha to Marangu Gate and back
- Park fees and hut accommodations
- Professional guides, porters, and cooks
- All meals on the mountain
- Purified drinking water
- Emergency oxygen and medical equipment
- Summit certificate
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| Excluded |
- International flights
- Personal trekking gear (available for hire)
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for the crew (recommended $20-$30/day)
- Optional extra service
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Details
The Machame Route, known as the "Whiskey Route," is renowned for its stunning scenery and excellent acclimatization profile. This 7-day trek offers diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, expansive moorlands, and striking alpine deserts, leading to the icy summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m). With a longer duration than the 6-day version, this itinerary improves your chances of a successful summit by allowing additional time for acclimatization. Perfect for adventurous climbers seeking an immersive Kilimanjaro experience.
Start your journey with a drive to Machame Gate (1,800m), where you’ll meet your trekking team and complete registration. Begin your ascent through a lush rainforest alive with wildlife and towering trees. After a 5-7 hour trek, arrive at Machame Camp (2,835m) for your first night on the mountain.
After breakfast, leave the rainforest behind and ascend through the moorland zone. The trail offers panoramic views of Mount Meru and the expansive plains below. You’ll arrive at Shira Camp (3,750m) after a 4-6 hour trek, where you’ll enjoy a warm meal and spectacular sunset views.
Today’s trek includes a climb to Lava Tower (4,630m) for acclimatization, followed by a descent to Barranco Camp (3,960m). The day provides stunning views of the Western Breach and the imposing Barranco Wall. This 7-9 hour trek helps your body adjust to the altitude while experiencing varied terrains.
Tackle the Barranco Wall, a steep yet rewarding climb offering breathtaking vistas. After scaling the wall, follow a trail through the Karanga Valley, arriving at Karanga Camp (4,035m) after a 4-5 hour trek. This shorter day allows for acclimatization and relaxation.
Continue your ascent through alpine desert terrain to Barafu Camp (4,640m). The trail is rugged and exposed, but the views of the summit and surrounding peaks are inspiring. After a 4-5 hour trek, reach camp and prepare for the midnight summit push.
The summit day begins at midnight, with a challenging ascent to Stella Point (5,739m) and onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the roof of Africa. Watch the sunrise from the summit and celebrate your achievement before descending to Barafu Camp for rest and lunch. Continue down to Mweka Camp (3,110m) for the night, completing a 12-16 hour day.
On the final day, descend through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640m). Celebrate your accomplishment, collect your summit certificate, and return to Arusha for a well-deserved rest and reflection on your incredible journey.
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