The Kilimanjaro Marangu Route, originating from the southeast, stands out as the sole path offering hut accommodations on the way up to Africa’s highest peak. This differentiates the Marangu from other Kilimanjaro Routes, offeringcamping accommodation options.
This Marangu Route promises a swift ascent, potentially reaching Uhuru Peak in just five days. However, for optimal acclimatization, most climbers opt for a six-day journey. Its affordability and unique lodging make it a top choice for novices coming for Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing tours.
Top of Form
| CONTENTS
1- Overview of the Marangu Route Kilimanjaro 2- Marangu Route Pros and Cons 3- Marangu Route Success Rates 4- Cost of Climbing Kilimanjaro via Marangu Route 5- Typical Marangu Route Itinerary for First Timer 6- Accommodation and Food on the Marangu Route 8-Is Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Your Climbing Choice? |
OVERVIEW OF THE MARANGU ROUTE KILIMANJARO
The Marangu Route Up Kilimanjarois the mountain’s oldest path, offering climbers a unique blend of nature and challenge. Here’s a snapshot of this iconic route:
Starting Point
Your hiking expedition begins in Marangu, a charming town on Kilimanjaro’s southeastern side. As you move forward, a vibrant rainforest filled with rich fauna and flora welcomes you.
Mandara Huts
After a night here, be ready to be amazed by expansive fields of heather, a stark contrast to the previous day’s terrain.
Horombo Huts and Beyond
On your way to this next stop, take a moment to climb the Maundi Crater’s rim. The breathtaking Kibo Crater, adorned with sparkling glaciers, comes into view here.
Alpine Attractions
This route’s undeniable alpine beauty is a significant draw for many adventurers.
The Saddle and Kibo Hut
Day four targets the “Saddle”, a stretch between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Kibo hut marks the final rest point before the summit.
To the Summit
Typically, climbers make their ascent during the night. Nearby, landmarks like the Hans Meyer Cave and Gillman’s Point add to the experience. The path, covered in snow, leads straight to Uhuru Peak.
Unique Descent
Its descent sets the Marangu Kilimanjaro Route apart, retracing the same path, allowing climbers to relive their ascent.
| Tribe’s Take on Marangu Route:Considering a Kilimanjaro adventure? Choose Mount Kilimanjaro Packagesfrom us atTanzania Tribe Safaris. Our 7-day Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Packages for the Marangu route includes five days of climbing. We’ve also allocated a day each for arrival and departure, ensuring our guests receive the rest they deserve for this epic journey. |
Top of Form
MARANGU ROUTE- PROS and CONS
Pros:
- Direct Path- The Marangu Route Up Kilimanjaro is the most straightforward and quickest way to the summit.
- Budget-Friendly- It’s more affordable compared to other routes.
- Comfortable Stay- This route provides hut accommodations for those not keen on tents.
Cons:
- Acclimatization Concerns–The route uses the same path for ascent and descent, leading to a less ideal acclimatization profile. This makes altitude sickness more common.
- Success Rate-The Marangu route is among the shortest ways to climb Kilimanjaro, which means climbers have less time to adjust to the altitude. This leads to a lower Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Success Rate. On average, only about 50% of climbers using this route reach the summit. So, the chances of getting to the top with the Marangu route are low.
Pro Tip:However, climbers can always opt for a 6-dayclimb for a higher Marangu Route Success Rate. Though there are no official statistics, adding an extra acclimatisation daycan increase the success rate to about 80%.
COST OF CLIMBING KILIMANJARO VIA MARANGU ROUTE
The Marangu Route Up Kilimanjaro is often seen as the most affordable mountain climbing because it can be done in just five days.
Here’s a breakdown of the Marangu Route Cost elements:
- Visa and Health: ~$300-$500 (This includes visa fees, vaccinations, and insurance)
- Gear: ~$200-$300 (This is for buying or renting equipment)
- Flight: ~$800 (This is the average cost to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Tour Company: $1,500 – $ 3,000 for your tour operator
- Tips: ~$200-$300
- Other Costs: $200 (This covers extra food and any unplanned expenses like additional travel or hotel stays)
You might spend between $3,200 and $5,100. Planning your budget using these figures is good if you’re considering Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
TYPICAL MARANGU ROUTE ITINERARY FOR FIRST TIMER
Generally,the Kilimanjaro Marangu Route accommodates different itinerary options for five and six days.
But, at Tanzania Tribe Safaris, we provideMount Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages for a seven-day climb via the Marangu Route. These seven days include arrival and departure, with 5-days dedicated to the climbing expedition.
Here, we willbriefly outline the7-day Marangu Route itinerary. For a detailed day-by-day itinerary, click on the 7Day Marangu Route.
| Day | Distance | Hiking Time | Elevation |
| Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport | |||
| Kilimanjaro National Park Gate to Mandara Hut | 7 km | 4-5 hours | 1700 m to 2740 m |
| Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut | 10 km | 5-6 hours | 2700 m to 3720 m |
| Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut | 14 km | hours | 3720 m to 4700 m |
| Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut | 16 km | 9-12 hours | 4700 m-5895 m -3720m |
| Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate | 18 km | 5-6 hours | 3720 to 1860 m |
| Departure Day | |||
ACCOMMODATION AND AMENITIES ON THE MARANGU ROUTE
When Climbing Kilimanjaro Marangu Route, travellers are treated to certain comforts that differentiate this path from others:
- Stay in Huts: The Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Distance is unique with its hut accommodations, providing a distinct and sheltered experience compared to tented camps on other routes.
- Dining on the Mountain: While meals are generally provided, always purify water from natural sources before drinking to stay safe.
- Basic Amenities: The huts along the Marangu Kilimanjaro Route come with fundamental toilet facilities, adding a touch of convenience to your mountain adventure.
Choosing the Marangu route offers a blend of nature’s raw beauty with some basic comforts, making your Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing experience memorable.
IS MARANGU ROUTE KILIMANJARO YOUR CLIMBING CHOICE?
The Marangu Route Kilimanjaro stands out with its unique blend of nature’s beauty and the convenience of hut accommodations. It’s a top choice for those on a budget or those who prefer a straightforward path.
However, varied landscapes and ascent and descent routes might attract others to explore alternative Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes. Whatever your preference, ensure it aligns with your adventure spirit. Ready to make memories? Dive into the Marangu experience with us.
