Marangu Route

Marangu is also known as the “Coca Cola” route. This is the most straightforward route on the mountain. The Marangu route takes you through the forests, moorlands and then across the Saddle (a high-altitude desert) to Kibo. The path to the summit is a zigzag route up steep scree, which makes a slower ascent than on the other routes. Marangu is also the only route on which you ascend and descend along the same path. It is also the only route providing huts.

Day 1:  Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut

1,860m (6,102ft) – 2,705m (8,875ft)
Meet your guide and start hiking from Marangu Gate. Hike through a fascinating rain forest to Mandara Hut. Hike to Maundi Crater (45 min from Mandara hut) or rest upon arrival.
Overnight at Mandara Hut, Average hiking time: 6 hours

Day 2:  Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut

2,705m (8,875ft) – 3,719m (12,201ft)
After breakfast start hiking to Horombo Hut. Leave the last glade of forest and follow the gently ascending path through the open alpine moorland. “Pole pole” (slowly slowly in Swahili) is the order of the day while enjoying the flora along the way. Remember, the slower you go, the more easily your body adjusts to the change in altitude. Giant Senecios stands tall along the path. Kibo and Mawenzi Peak can be seen on a clear day.
Overnight at Horombo Hut, Average hiking time: 6 hours

Day 3:  Acclimatization Day

An extra day at Horombo to acclimatize to the altitude. We highly recommend that you hike to “Zebra Rock” (3,980m / 13,058ft) - rocks striped by weather. If energy and time allow, you can walk to the foot of Mawenzi. Return to Horombo in the afternoon.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 4:  Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut

3,719m (12,201ft) – 4,713m (15,463ft)
Hike slowly to Kibo Hut. Today you leave the moorland and enter the Saddle (an alpine desert) past giant lobelia and walk to Kibo Hut. The saddle is a flat area, but don’t be tempted to increase your pace. Take it easy. If altitude has not affected you so far, this is where it will begin to kick in. You will have a packed lunch along the way.
Overnight at Kibo Hut, Average hiking time: 7 hours

Day 5:  Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (SUMMIT!!)

4,713m (15,463ft) – 5,895m (19,341ft)

Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

5,895m (19,341ft) – 3,719m (12,201ft)
Walk-up call just before midnight to start your final ascent to the summit. You’ll follow a zigzag path with loose scree to reach Gillman’s Point (5,685 m) at sunrise. The only thing you will notice for the next few hours is the feet of the person in front of you. The path from Kibo to Gillman’s is the most demanding section of the whole climb. It quickly becomes a real test of endurance. Near Gillman’s the scree comes to an end and huge boulders loom above you.
Continue another 2 hours to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). SUMMIT!!!!! the highest peak in Africa. Descent to Kibo with a short rest before continue to Horombo Hut.
Overnight at Horombo Hut, Average hiking time to the summit: 7 Hours, Average descending time: 5 hours

Day 6:  Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate

3,719m (12,201ft) – 1,860m (6,102ft)
Descent to Marangu Gate. It is easier to go down than up. Enjoy lunch at Mandara Hut,  Average hiking time: 6 hours

*Hiking times are estimated only, but have been calculated to give the hiker a comfortable pace throughout the hike.

WHY BOOK WITH EXPLORE PLUS?

We offer you:

• A detailed itinerary, including graphics and altitude estimations;
• Practical advice based on our personal experience of the routes;
• All quotes include enough time for acclimatisation, as it plays a vital part in ensuring a successful attempt;
• Emergency assistance. Our team is available around the clock during your climb to ensure that you have all the support you need, both in Tanzania and South-Africa;