Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut. Also available for consumption are soft drinks, bottled water, and beer.
The minimum days required for this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended.
The Marangu route is a classic trek to the top of Kilimanjaro. However, it has the least scenic variety of all routes (ascent and descent are done on the same path) and is the most crowded for that reason.
Marangu is offered as a five to six day private climb.
After breakfast we head to the National Park gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The trail climbs through a tropical rain forest, near the upper edge of the forest line (keep an eye out for blue monkeys). The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.
Our second day on the trail begins with a steep, but not technical ascent through forest and opens into high moorland. If weather allows, we may get our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.
This is an extra day to acclimatize and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi.
Today we climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach our campsite which sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once at camp we rest, enjoy dinner and prepare for the next day.
Leaving very early in the morning (around midnight), we continue our way to the summit in hopes of catching the sunrise. The trail is a series of switchbacks up a steep scree slope, with climbers stretched into the darkness, visible only by headlamps. It is important to focus on breathing and foot placement. The views from the summit are dramatic and immense. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut.
A long trek is in store for today, however it is mostly downhill. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate we pick up our certificates that prove our achievement. Vehicle transfer to hotel for a celebration.
A deposit is required at the time of booking, with the balance due 30 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 30 days of departure are non-refundable. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Climbers must be in good health and should provide medical clearance if necessary. Luggage is limited to one checked bag and one carry-on. Special requests must be communicated at the time of booking and are subject to availability.
The Marangu Route is the most cost-effective Kilimanjaro route due to its hut accommodations, which eliminate camping gear costs. It’s ideal for:
The cost ranges from $1,680–$2,308 per person, depending on group size and itinerary (5 or 6 days).
The extra day adds costs for huts, meals, and staff but increases summit success by 10-15%.
Yes, it’s typically $200–$500 cheaper than camping routes like Machame due to hut accommodations.
