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Trekking to the Roof of Africa: 6 Days on Kilimanjaro’s Marangu Route
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Price
$1,548.00
Trip Overview
Itinerary
FAQs
Other Tour Details
Trip Overview
Overview
The Marangu Route is one of the most popular and well-established routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Here’s an overview of the Marangu Route:
- Description: The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route” due to its popularity and relative ease compared to other routes, is often considered the easiest route for ascending Kilimanjaro. It’s a scenic route that offers a gradual ascent through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts.
- Duration: The Marangu Route typically takes about five to six days to complete, although some operators offer shorter itineraries. It involves hiking for approximately 64 kilometers (40 miles) round trip.
- Accommodation: Unlike other routes where camping is required, the Marangu Route offers accommodation in simple mountain huts along the trail. These huts provide basic amenities such as bunk beds, dining areas, and toilets. However, they can be crowded during peak climbing seasons.
- Difficulty: While the Marangu Route is considered one of the easier routes up Kilimanjaro, it still presents challenges, especially due to altitude. Climbers need to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. The gradual ascent and the availability of hut accommodation make it more accessible for less experienced climbers.
- Highlights: The Marangu Route offers several highlights, including stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and volcanic landscapes, encounters with diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities to experience the local culture of the Chagga people who inhabit the region.
- Summit: The summit attempt typically starts in the early hours of the morning from Kibo Hut, the last accommodation point before the summit. Climbers ascend in darkness to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro, in time to witness the sunrise over the African plains.
- Guided Tours: Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route requires hiring a licensed guide and porters, as independent trekking is not allowed. Guided tours often include transportation, meals, accommodation, park fees, and equipment rental.
- Best Time to Climb: The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is during the dry seasons, which are from late June to October and from December to mid-March. These periods offer clearer skies and more stable weather conditions, increasing the chances of a successful summit.
Overall, the Marangu Route provides an accessible and relatively comfortable way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a popular choice for many climbers.
Costs Includeds/Excludes
- 2 nights' accommodation in Moshi or Arusha
- Private transport to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Moshi
- Park entry fees
- Camping fees
- Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
- Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees
- 18% VAT on tour fees and services
- 4-season mountain tents
- Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
- 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain
- Enough treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek
- Hot water for washing
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Government taxes
- Oximeter
- Sleeping mattress
- Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
- Emergency first-aid kit
- Airfare
- Tips for porters, guide, cook, and assistant guide
- Flights
- Visas
- Meals other than breakfast while in Arusha or Moshi
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
- Hotel upgrade costs if you decide to request an alternative hotel to the standard
- Items considered to be non-essential, such as alcohol, beverages, cigarettes, snacks, etc.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Today marks your arrival in Tanzania. Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by one of our representatives holding a sign bearing the name of our agency, Affordable International Travel. They will be there to assist you through the arrival process and ensure a smooth transition to your accommodations.
Once you’ve completed the necessary formalities at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel where you will check in and have the opportunity to rest after your journey. Take this time to unwind and prepare for the exciting adventures that await you in Tanzania.
Tomorrow, your exploration of this beautiful country will begin in earnest. Get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and memorable encounters. Welcome to Tanzania!
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1980m) – Mandara Hut (2700m)
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be picked up from Moshi and driven to Marangu Gate (1980m). At the gate, porters will organize your belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). The ascent into the rainforest begins, where you’ll encounter rain, mud, and fog, along with wildlife such as Colobus monkeys. After 3-4 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Mandara Hut (2700m) for the night.
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers
- Habitat: Montane forest
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2700m) – Horombo Hut (3720m)
Following breakfast, you’ll ascend out of the rainforest into the heathen moorland. Passing Maundi Crater, you’ll spot exotic plants like giant lobelia and groundsel. After 6 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut (3720m) for overnight stay.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3720m) – Acclimatization Day
At Horombo Hut, you’ll spend the day acclimating to the high altitude. Optionally, you can do a day hike to Mawenzi Hut (4600m) with your guide. Meals will be provided at the hut.
Day 5: Horombo Hut (3720m) – Kibo Hut (4700m)
After an early breakfast, you’ll continue your ascent into the alpine desert habitat. You’ll have two trail options leading to Kibo Hut (4700m), where an early dinner will be served in preparation for the summit attempt.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Kibo Hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo Hut (3720m)
Your summit attempt begins around 23:30 with tea and biscuits. The trail is rocky up to Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), then continues to Gillman’s Point (5681m) and finally to Uhuru Peak (5895m). After spending some time at the summit, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a hot lunch before continuing to Horombo Hut for overnight stay.
- Hiking time: 8 hours to Uhuru and 6 hours to Horombo
- Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers ascent and 21 kilometers descent
- Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit
Day 7: Horombo Hut (3720m) – Marangu Gate (1980m)
After breakfast, there will be a celebration with the staff. You’ll descend for 6 hours back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive certificates of completion. Afterwards, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Moshi.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 27 kilometers
Day 8: Depart Tanzania
Depart Tanzania or continue with safari extensions. Transfers will be provided to Kilimanjaro International Airport or bus station for onward travel.
FAQs
What is the Lemosho Route?
The Lemosho Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded routes to trek Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, making it a popular choice among adventurers.
Is it possible to complete the Lemosho Route trek in just 8 days?
Yes, it is possible to complete the Lemosho Route in 8 days, although it is recommended for experienced trekkers who are already acclimatized to high altitudes.
What is the total distance covered on the Lemosho Route in 8 days?
The total distance covered on the Lemosho Route in 8 days is approximately [insert distance] kilometers/[insert distance] miles.
Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?
While the Lemosho Route is not considered the most challenging route, it does involve long and strenuous trekking days, high altitude, and variable weather conditions. It is recommended for experienced trekkers or beginners who have trained and prepared adequately for the demands of the route.
What is the itinerary for the Lemosho Route trek in 8 days?
- The itinerary typically includes the following key points:
-
- Day 1: Starting point at [insert starting point], trekking to [insert first campsite].
- Day 2: Trekking from [insert first campsite] to [insert second campsite].
- [Continue detailing the itinerary for each day, including major landmarks and campsites].
What are the highlights of the Lemosho Route trek in 8 days?
Highlights of the trek include panoramic views of the Shira Plateau, passing through lush rainforests, crossing the Shira Ridge, traversing the Barranco Wall, and reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lava Tower and Stella Point.
Is the Lemosho Route suitable for beginners?
While the Lemosho Route is not considered the most challenging route, it does involve long and strenuous trekking days, high altitude, and variable weather conditions. It is recommended for experienced trekkers or beginners who have trained and prepared adequately for the demands of the route.
What is the best time of year to trek the Lemosho Route in 8 days?
The best time to trek the Lemosho Route is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from January to March and June to October. These months offer more stable weather conditions and clearer views, enhancing the overall trekking experience.
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