The 6-Day Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and one of the most popular paths up Mount Kilimanjaro. This route follows the path of Hans Meyer’s first successful summit in 1889 and passes through all the mountain’s climatic zones, from tropical forest to alpine desert. Unique to the Marangu Route are the dormitory-style huts for overnight stays. It’s ideal for climbing during the rainy seasons (mid-March to late May and late October to late December) since the huts provide shelter and comfort. The route offers 5- and 6-day variations, with the 6-day option being less difficult. Although it provides scenic views, the trail is crowded and lacks variety, making the 6-day option better for beginners.
After arrival to the Airport we will pick you up from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha for accommodation.
Pre-trek briefing at your hotel in Arusha. You should be planning to arrive atleast one day before the start of the trek. Today we will spend in having a pre-trek briefing. We will also review your equipment and rent trekking equipment which is needed.
You leave the glades of the rain-forest and follow an ascending via on the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and grounsels. You may begin to feel the affects of the altitude.
Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
You leave the glades of the rain-forest and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and grounsels. You may begin to feel the affects of the altitude.
Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Ascending, we now pass the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with upper heathland but then disappears into “moonscape”. Dinner, rest, and prepare for summit climb.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s point located on the crater rim. Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment.
Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will be waiting for you at Marangu gate to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha for accommodation.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
After one last breakfast, your driver will collect you from the lodge at a time previously arranged time in order to take you to the airport in good time for your return flight or onward travel arrangements
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Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your activities.
For wildlife safaris, the dry seasons from June to October offer excellent game viewing, including the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
January to February is ideal for witnessing the calving season. For Mount Kilimanjaro treks, the best conditions are from January to March and June to October.
Beach lovers visiting Zanzibar will enjoy the dry months of December to February and June to October.
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A single-entry tourist visa costs $50 for most nationalities, while US citizens pay $100 for a multiple-entry visa.
The eVisa process usually takes about 10 business days for approval.
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