Marangu Route is unfortunately less scenic than the other routes, because the ascent and descent are along the same path. It is also the most crowded route for that reason. At the same time it is the best option to conquer Kilimanjaro for less experienced hikers, but no illusions, even this easiest way up to the Kilimanjaro summit will require a fairly good physical condition. Allocated in a small group you will have an adventurous journey to the roof of Africa. However the short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization fairly difficult. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. It has been referred to as the 'Coca Cola' route and this has led potential climbers to think that it is an easy route to the summit. This is far from the truth to be honest!
We meet you in the Kilimanjaro International Airport or in the Arusha Airport and transfer you to a hotel in Arusha or Moshi, previously booked by you to relax after the flight and to start the safari one the booked day.
After breakfast and briefing, drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 2 hours), register and commence the climb. Walk through the rainforest to the Mandara encampment. A side trip to Maundi Crater is a good way to see the surroundings including Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, bird life, and Colobus monkeys.
Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You leave the glades of the rainforest and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and groundsels. At this point you may begin to feel the effects of the altitude.
Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ascending, we now pass the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with upper heathland but then disappears into “moonscape”. Dinner, rest, and prepare for summit climb.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2:00 AM), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s point located on the crater rim. Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment. The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly “pole pole” and an optimistic attitude will get you there!
Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, and a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). Our vehicle will meet you at Marangu gate to drive you back to the hotel or the airport. Don’t forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft.
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
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My experience with Jeby Tours was Fantastic. I thought the team over delivered on their promise. The entire team was very professional, the tents and sleeping bags were clean and in good shape and out Chef.
I absolutely recommend Jeby Tours!! Our trip couldn’t have been better...His support, help, Knowledge and guidance throughout the 7 days climb made such a difference! We faced terrible weather.
The most incredible experience of a lifetime, with the safety and guidance of Jeby Tours guide. They were not only informative and encouraging, they always had smiles on their faces and enjoyed.
