Alkebulan Travels

TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERT
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Marangu Route Kilimanjaro

The Marangu Route, popularly known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” holds the distinction of being the oldest and most established trekking path on Mount Kilimanjaro.

Experience Price

From $1,753 per person

Book this climb

Experience Price

From $1,753 per person

Book this climb
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ABOUT KILIMANJARO’S MARANGU ROUTE

Its enduring popularity stems from the fact that it is the sole route on the mountain that provides hut accommodations for trekkers. This iconic route offers climbers the quintessential Kilimanjaro experience, featuring breathtaking vistas and an exhilarating hiking adventure that culminates at the summit of Uhuru Peak. However, what sets the Marangu Route apart are its unique characteristics, giving it a distinct character and ambience. One fascinating aspect of the Marangu Route is its prohibition on camping, making it the sole path up Mount Kilimanjaro where trekkers are not permitted to set up tents. Instead, they find respite in permanent huts dotting the route.

Undoubtedly, summit day on Kilimanjaro presents a challenge regardless of the route chosen, intensifying the sense of achievement upon reaching the pinnacle. Due to its shorter duration, requiring only five days to reach Uhuru Peak, the Marangu Route attracts trekkers who have limited time available for their climb. However, this brevity comes at the cost of reduced opportunities for acclimatization to the altitude. Consequently, the Marangu Route bears the highest failure rate among all the paths up Mount Kilimanjaro. Prospective climbers should consider this factor carefully before opting for this particular route.

Furthermore, the Marangu Route stands out as the sole path employing the same trail for both ascent and descent. As a result, while the journey is scenic, trekkers encounter the same landmarks on their return journey. Additionally, the bidirectional traffic can lead to overcrowding at certain times, posing a potential challenge. Nevertheless, for those seeking a classic Kilimanjaro experience, the tried and tested Marangu Route remains an excellent choice, leading adventurers to the Roof of Africa. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers private climbs of the Marangu Route spanning five or six days. The five-day option excludes the acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, providing a more condensed itinerary.

Experience Expectation

Embarking on a six-day Marangu Route itinerary to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro is an exhilarating adventure that promises awe-inspiring landscapes and a test of physical and mental strength. As you set foot on this iconic route, you can anticipate a diverse range of experiences that will surpass your climbing expectations. Over the course of six days, you will venture through lush rainforests teeming with unique flora and fauna, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes.

As the terrain transitions, you will find yourself traversing through moorlands, where the rugged beauty of the landscape unfolds before your eyes. The anticipation builds as you ascend higher, approaching the lunar-like landscapes of the alpine desert. Finally, the grand finale awaits you as you conquer the final push towards Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where the breathtaking panoramic views will reward your determination and leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Throughout the journey, the Marangu Route offers a well-established infrastructure, making it an excellent choice for climbers seeking a balance between adventure and comfort. This route features designated sleeping huts, providing a respite from the elements and a chance to rest and rejuvenate for the next day’s ascent. Expert guides and porters accompany you every step of the way, ensuring your safety and assisting with logistics, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. As you trek along this popular route, you will have the opportunity to interact with fellow climbers from all walks of life, sharing stories and forging bonds that transcend borders.

The Marangu Route’s relatively gentle slopes and gradual elevation gain make it accessible to climbers with a moderate level of fitness, making it an ideal choice for those seeking their first Kilimanjaro summit. With its blend of stunning natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and a sense of camaraderie, the Marangu Route is sure to exceed your expectations, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

SAFARI FEATURES

  • Scenic beauty: Picturesque landscapes, and breathtaking views.
  • Well-established trail: Marangu Route is the oldest and most popular route on Kilimanjaro.
  • Hut accommodations: Overnight stays in comfortable mountain huts along the route.
  • Gradual ascent: Gentle slope for better acclimatization.
  • Cultural encounters: Opportunities to interact with local Chagga communities.
  • Majestic forests: Trek through lush rainforests rich in flora and fauna.
  • Summit attempt: Early morning start for a chance to reach Uhuru Peak.
  • Reaching Uhuru Peak: Standing on the “Roof of Africa” is a momentous achievement.
  • Experienced guides: Professional guides ensuring safety and support.
  • Personal accomplishment: Conquering Africa’s highest peak is a remarkable feat.

Experience Suitability

  • Beginners or those with limited climbing experience
  • Those who prefer a less strenuous climb.
  • Individuals who want to stay in huts along the route.
  • Hikers who enjoy a well-established and maintained trail.
  • People who prefer a shorter duration climb compared to other routes.

Day to Day Experience

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Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. You can take this day to rest and prepare for the exciting adventure that lies ahead.

  • From: Londorossi Gate (7,742 ft)

    • To: Shira 2 Camp (12,598 ft)
    • Distance: 7 km
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
    • Habitat: Montane Forest

    After breakfast, we will drive to the Lemosho Gate located at the western base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Once we complete the necessary registration formalities, we begin our ascent through the lush rainforest. The trail is alive with various species of flora and fauna, making it a delightful start to our trek. We continue hiking for several hours until we reach the Shira 2 Camp, where we will spend the night. As we gain altitude, the vegetation transitions into heathland, providing beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

    • From: Shira 2 Camp (12,598 ft)
      • To: Barranco Camp (12,956 ft)
      • Distance: 10 km
      • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert
      • From: Barranco Camp (12,956 ft)
      • To: Karanga Camp (13,106 ft)
      • Distance: 5 km
      • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert

      After breakfast, we face the famous Barranco Wall, a challenging rock scramble that requires careful navigation. As we conquer this obstacle, we are rewarded with stunning vistas of glaciers and the surrounding valleys. We then traverse the southern slopes of Kibo, the highest of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones, until we reach the Karanga Camp. Here, we enjoy a well-deserved rest and prepare for the next day’s ascent.

      • From: Karanga Camp (13,106 ft)
      • To: Barafu Camp (15,331 ft)
      • Distance: 4 km
      • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert

      The path from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp gradually ascends, taking us closer to our ultimate goal. As we hike, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and lunar-like, providing a surreal atmosphere. We arrive at Barafu Camp, situated on a rocky ridge, in the afternoon. This is the last camp before the summit attempt, and we take the rest of the day to rest and mentally prepare for the challenging climb ahead.

    • From: Barafu Camp (15,331 ft) to Uhuru Peak (19,341 ft) and Millennium Camp (12,467 ft)
    • Distance: 4 km ascent, 12 km descent
    • Hiking Time: 7-8 hours to reach the summit, 5-6 hours to descend to Millennium Camp
    • Habitat: Arctic

    We start our ascent in the middle of the night, armed with headlamps and layers of warm clothing. The trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Mount Kilimanjaro, is physically and mentally demanding but incredibly rewarding. We make our way up the steep slopes, navigating through scree and icy patches, until we reach the summit just before dawn. Standing on Uhuru Peak, we celebrate our achievement and soak in the awe-inspiring sunrise. After capturing memories and taking in the breathtaking views, we descend to the Millennium Camp for a well-deserved rest.

      • From: Millennium Camp (12,467 ft)
      • To: Mweka Gate (5,400 ft)
      • Distance: 10 km
      • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
      • Habitat: Rainforest

      Our final descent takes us through the lush rainforest, a refreshing change from the barren landscapes of the higher altitudes. As we make our way down, we can reflect on our incredible journey and savour the sights and sounds of the vibrant flora and fauna. Upon reaching the Mweka Gate, we receive our summit certificates and bid farewell to our mountain crew. A vehicle will be waiting to transport us to Mweka Village, where we continue the journey back to our hotel in Moshi.

    • Today marks the end of our memorable adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro. After breakfast, we say our goodbyes and our team will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. You can depart with a sense of accomplishment and countless memories that will last a lifetime.

      Please note that the itineraries are subject to change based on weather conditions, group pace, and the overall well-being of the trekkers. Our experienced guides will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your safety and enhance your trekking experience.

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Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Take this day to relax and prepare for your upcoming trek. You can explore the vibrant city of Arusha or simply rest and rejuvenate in anticipation of the adventure ahead.

  • From Machame Gate to Machame Camp
    • Elevation (ft): 5,400ft to 9,400ft
    • Distance: 11 km
    • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
    • Habitat: Rain Forest
    • From Machame Camp to Shira Camp
    • Elevation (ft): 9,400ft to 12,600ft
    • Distance: 5 km
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
    • Habitat: Moorland
    • From Shira Camp to Barranco Camp
    • Elevation (ft): 12,600ft to 13,000ft (Lava Tower – 15,190ft, acclimatization point)
    • Distance: 10 km
    • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
    • Habitat: Semi-Desert
      • From Barranco Camp (13,000ft) to Karanga Camp (13,100ft)
      • Elevation (ft): +100ft
      • Distance: 5km
      • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
      • Habitat: Alpine Desert
    • From Karanga Camp (13,100ft) to Barafu Camp (15,300ft)
    • Elevation (ft): +2,200ft
    • Distance: 4km
    • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
    • Habitat: Alpine Desert
      • From Barafu Camp (15,300ft) to Uhuru Peak (19,341ft) to Mweka Camp (10,000ft)
      • Elevation (ft): +4,041ft, -9,341ft
      • Distance: 18km
      • Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
      • Habitat: Arctic Zone, Alpine Desert, Rainforest
      • From Mweka Camp (10,000ft) to Mweka Gate (5,400ft) to Arusha
      • Elevation (ft): -4,600ft
      • Distance: 10km
      • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
      • Habitat: Rainforest

    • From Hotel in Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport

      After a restful night in Arusha, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. Bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes and warm hospitality of Tanzania, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.

       

      Note: This itinerary is a general guideline and may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, group pace, and the overall fitness of the participants. Your experienced guide will ensure the best possible experience while prioritizing your safety at all times.

Experience Accommodation

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Upon your arrival in Arusha, you will be accommodated at either the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha. Both hotels offer comfortable and convenient lodging options, providing you with a relaxing environment to rest and prepare for your Kilimanjaro trek.

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During the trek on the Marangu Route, you will experience a combination of camping and accommodation in mountain huts. The Marangu Route is often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route due to its popularity and availability of amenities along the way. The accommodation on the Marangu Route consists of designated mountain huts at each overnight stop. These huts provide basic sleeping facilities with bunk beds and communal dining areas.

While the huts offer shelter and more convenience compared to camping, they have shared facilities such as toilets and washing areas. The huts also have solar-powered lighting, providing some comfort during the evenings. It’s important to note that the availability of huts is limited, and they are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. In case the huts are fully occupied, our team will provide comfortable camping equipment to ensure your comfort throughout the trek.

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Upon completing your Kilimanjaro trek, you will be transferred back to either the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha, where you can relax and celebrate your accomplishment. Both hotels offer comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and excellent services. Enjoy a hot shower, unwind by the hotel’s facilities, and take the time to reflect on your incredible journey. Indulge in delicious meals and relish the memories of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Please note that the specific accommodation arrangements may vary depending on availability and other factors. Our team will make every effort to ensure your comfort and provide suitable accommodation options throughout your Kilimanjaro climbing tour.

Rates per Person

  • Route
    1 Pax
    2 Pax
    3 Pax
    4 Pax
    5 Pax
    6 pax
    7 pax
    8+ pax
  • 5 Days
    $2,570
    $2,190
    $2,016
    $1,943
    $1,900
    $1,820
    $1,790
    $1,753
  • 6 Days
    $2,878
    $2,573
    $2,359
    $2,287
    $2,178
    $2,098
    $2,015
    $2,000

For luxury Kilimanjaro Climb

The client will have to add $1500 extra and will stay at either of the following hotels:

  • Mount Meru Hotel
  • Gran Melia Hotel
  • Kibo Palace Hotel

Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb will include the following

  • Special Kilimanjaro guide
  • Personal porter for carrying day pack
  • 2 sets of Oxygen
  • Portable private toilet and Camp shower for groups of 4 or more
  • Large comfortable dining tent with Dining chairs with backs
  • Hot lunches on the mountain
  • Solar lighting in dining tent and personal tent
  • Camp pillow, Extra sleeping pad
  • Hot water bottle for sleeping bag at night
  • Solar panel for charging batteries and Kilimanjaro map for each in the group

Experience Inclusion & Exclusion

  • All camping and hut fees
  • All Entry fees.
  • All camping gears.
  • High-Quality 4-inch Sleeping Mattress & Pillow
  • Duffle Bags or Sleeping Bags (- 10°C)
  • Oxygen cylinder
  • Oximeter machine
  • Mobile Communications (for emergency only)
  • Transport to/from the mountain gates
  • Experienced and friendly trek staff (cooks and porters) and their salaries.
  • Meals (3 times per day)
  • Boiled/Purified drinking water.
  • Cook and kitchen utensils.
  • 18% VAT
  • English-speaking guide (certified as a Wilderness First Responder & Emergency Medicine Adult and Child CPR)
  • Special Language Guide (for $20 per guide, per day)
  • First Aid & Injury prevention kits
  • Daily briefing
  • 25% discount on gear rental (the discount applies for online shopping only)
  • Personal Summit Certificate stamped and signed by the National Park and your Guide.
  • International and local flights from back home
  • Tips (Gratuity) to guide and porters.
  • Tanzania Visa
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses (e.g., laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
  • RT PCR Test (can be arranged)
  • Hotels for before and after trek night (available as an add-on)
  • Airport Transfer (50$ one way per car)
  • Personal mountain gear (We offer high-quality Gear Rental, see below for more info)

Maps

Safari Transportation

We understand the importance of comfortable and reliable transportation during your Kilimanjaro climbing tour. To ensure a seamless experience, we provide transportation services for various stages of your journey.

Airport Pickup:

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our professional driver will be waiting to greet you. We offer transportation options depending on the size of your group. For smaller groups or individual travellers, we provide a Toyota Alphard, a spacious and comfortable vehicle ideal for airport transfers. For larger groups, we have a Safari Land Cruiser, which offers ample space for both passengers and luggage. Our experienced driver will safely transport you from the airport to your hotel in Arusha, whether it’s the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha.

Trek Day:

On the day of your trek, we will arrange transportation from your hotel in Arusha to the starting point of your chosen route. We utilize a private Coaster shuttle bus, which provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transport. The shuttle bus is spacious, allowing you to relax and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead. Our experienced driver will ensure a smooth journey as you head towards the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, ready to embark on your trekking expedition.

After Trek:

Upon completing your Kilimanjaro trek, we will arrange transportation from the mountain back to your hotel in Arusha. Our private Coaster shuttle bus will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you safely and comfortably. You can relax and reflect on your incredible achievement as our driver navigates the scenic routes back to your accommodation at either the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha or Mount Meru Hotel Arusha.

Airport Dropoff:

When it’s time to bid farewell to Tanzania, we will arrange transportation from your hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. For airport drop-off, we offer both the Toyota Alphard and Safari Land Cruiser, depending on the number of clients and their respective transportation needs. Our reliable driver will ensure that you reach the airport in a timely manner, allowing you to catch your flight with ease.

At Alkebulan Travels, we prioritize your comfort and safety throughout your Kilimanjaro climbing tour. Our well-maintained vehicles and experienced drivers will provide a smooth and enjoyable transportation experience, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in the beauty of Tanzania’s landscapes and the thrill of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro.

Important to Know

The Machame Route is one of the most popular and scenic routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Here are some important things to know about the Machame Route:

    1. Difficulty: The Machame Route is considered to be a moderately difficult route. It involves steep sections and varied terrain, including rocky paths and some scrambling. Proper physical fitness and mental preparation are essential for a successful climb.
    2. Scenery: The Machame Route offers stunning scenery throughout the trek. You will pass through different ecological zones, including lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. The diverse landscapes and breathtaking views make the climb a memorable experience.
    3. Camping: The Machame Route is a camping route, which means you will spend your nights in tents at designated campsites along the trail. The campsites are well-equipped with facilities such as toilets and dining areas, providing a comfortable camping experience.
    4. Acclimatization: The Machame Route has good acclimatization opportunities, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude gradually. The route includes longer hiking days and multiple camps at different elevations, maximizing your chances of successfully acclimatizing to the high altitude.
    5. Summit Day: The summit attempt on the Machame Route usually starts in the early hours of the morning. It involves a challenging and steep ascent to the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb is physically demanding and requires mental resilience, but the rewarding views from the summit make it all worthwhile.
    6. Guide and Support Team: Climbing the Machame Route requires the assistance of experienced guides and a support team. These professionals will provide guidance, and support, and ensure your safety throughout the trek. It is important to choose a reputable tour operator who provides trained and knowledgeable staff.
    7. Packing and Gear: Proper gear and equipment are essential for a successful climb. You will need to pack warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and other essentials. It is recommended to consult with your tour operator for a detailed packing list and to ensure you have the necessary gear.
    8. Training and Preparation: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a physically demanding endeavour. It is crucial to engage in pre-trek training and prepare your body for the challenges ahead. Regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hiking at high altitudes can help improve your fitness level and increase your chances of summiting.

Travel Insurance

All our Tours are covered by AMREF Flying Doctors Travel insurance

At Alkebulan Travels, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our clients during their Tanzania safari and Kilimanjaro climb tours. That’s why we have partnered with AMREF Flying Doctors to provide comprehensive tourist insurance coverage for all our trips within Tanzania.

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HN5, Private Road,
Old Moshi Road
Moshono Kati
P.O. Box 254 Arusha Tanzania

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