Exploring Mount Kilimanjaro’s Routes

Mount Kilimanjaro presents six established paths for ascending its summit: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, and Umbwe. While Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe emanate from the south, Lemosho and Shira approach from the west. Rongai, on the other hand, originates from the north, near Kenya. Notably, all routes except Marangu and Rongai descend via the Mweka trail.

Ascending Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route

The Marangu Route, commonly referred to as the Coca-Cola route, stands out due to its popularity. This fame arises from its shorter duration and the presence of permanent sleep huts at the campsites.

The journey to the summit from Kibo Hut is marked by steep terrain that leads through Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. It’s a shorter route with a steeper incline, allowing less time for acclimatization, which often results in a lower success rate at the summit. Notably, this is the only route where the ascent and descent paths are shared, leading to increased traffic.

Marangu Route Highlights and Specifics

Duration: 5 or 6 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Outstanding
Traffic: High

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will greet you and facilitate your transfer for an overnight stay at the luxurious Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel (4 stars) with a delightful B&B experience. Your head guide will subsequently meet you for a comprehensive briefing, equipment check, and to assist in arranging any necessary gear.

Day 1: From Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts

Departing from Moshi, a picturesque 45-minute drive leads through the Village of Machame to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. As permits are issued, take in the bustling operations as crews prepare for their journeys ahead. Immerse yourself in the enchanting rainforest scenery and traverse the windy trails while your guide enlightens you about the local flora, fauna, and natural wildlife. Lower elevations may bring muddy and slippery trails, making gaiters and trekking poles valuable companions.

Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

After a restful night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, emerge from the rainforest onto an ascending path that winds through heathland. Search for the impressive giant lobelias and groundsels. Ascend to open moorlands, where small shrubs dominate. Pause for lunch while soaking in breathtaking Mawenzi views. By late afternoon, reach Horombo Huts, nestled beneath the awe-inspiring Kibo Summit viewpoint. As temperatures drop, the sense of adventure deepens.

Day 3: Additional Day at Horombo Huts

This day offers the choice to rest or take a stroll to Mawenzi base camp and return. The additional day enhances acclimatization and understanding of the mountain’s weather and altitude. After the pause, proceed to Kibo Huts on the fourth day for the midnight ascent to the summit.

Day 4: From Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts

Following breakfast, traverse the dwindling heathland, transitioning into a moon-like landscape as you enter the sweeping saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. While pausing for lunch, examine the upcoming summit climb up Kibo that awaits in a few hours.

Day 5: Kibo Huts to Summit and Descent to Horombo Huts

Anticipation grows as an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. marks the most mentally and physically demanding section of the journey. Ascending to the summit involves a switchback formation, necessitating determination and focus. Ascend through heavy scree and possibly snow, reaching Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. Experience a breathtaking sunrise during a brief rest. Quick hikers might catch the sunrise from the summit. Snow is likely for the remaining one-hour ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Congratulations on reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent! Capture the moment with photos, celebrate, and perhaps shed a few tears of joy. Afterward, commence the descent to Mweka Camp, pausing at Barafu for lunch and a brief rest. Gaiters and trekking poles are indispensable for navigating challenging terrain. An evening of well-deserved rest awaits at Mweka Camp.

Day 6: From Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate and Beyond

After breakfast and a heartfelt appreciation ceremony with your crew, bid farewell. Pause at Mandara Huts for lunch and remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters. Return to Marangu Park Gate, receive summit certificates, and prepare for a warmer climate. Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended as you exit. A vehicle will meet you at the gate for the journey back to your Moshi hotel (around 45 minutes). Rejoice in a long-awaited hot shower, dinner, and celebrations!

Certified Ethical Climbing:

We believe the tourism industry bears a responsibility to safeguard natural habitats, cultural heritage, and communities. Our commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility is unwavering.

As proud partners in responsible travel, we actively support the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC). KPAP raises awareness about fair porter treatment and guides climbing companies in implementing ethical procedures. Our climbing expeditions undergo audits to ensure crew members receive proper treatment. We invite you to explore our TripAdvisor profile for firsthand client experiences.

Climbing FAQ

More than 30,000 hikers visit the famous mountain, known as the roof of Africa, each year, drawn not just by its height but also by the panorama it offers. While scaling Mount Kilimanjaro is not for the faint of heart, many trekking aficionados have it on their bucket list to reach the mountain’s snow-capped summit.

The dry season, which lasts from June to October and December to March, offers beautiful scenery, a clear view, and a high success rate for summit attempts.

In our opinion. The Machame Route comes in second, followed by the Lemosho Route, while the Rongai Route comes in third.

The gateway to both Kilimanjaro and the safari is Kilimanjaro International Airport. From there, you’ll be driven an hour to Moshi town or an hour to Arusha City for the night. Drive to the gates of the Kilimanjaro mountain park the following day.

You need all of the equipment from the Kilimanjaro Climb Gear List as well as layered clothing because the summit is extremely cold.

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