Kilimanjaro Moorlands

Kilimanjaro Golden Hour

Kilimanjaro - Celebrations

Kilimanjaro Moorlands

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Often called the "Coca-Cola Route," the Marangu Route is Kilimanjaro’s most popular trail, celebrated for its gentler slopes and cozy mountain huts. It’s the ideal choice for those who prefer a more comfortable and scenic ascent.

At Genes Adventures, we offer the Marangu Route in both 5- and 6-day options. While the path remains the same, the 6-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day — a smart choice for boosting your summit success and truly embracing the magic of the mountain. We highly recommend taking the extra day to maximize your adventure!

Marangu Route

6 days - 5 nights

Day 1

After breakfast, head to Marangu Gate where your guide arranges permits as you enjoy coffee or tea. Trek into the lush rainforest, rich in wildlife and exotic plants. After about 4 hours, reach Mandara Hut. In the afternoon, visit Maundi Crater for sweeping views over Kenya’s plains.

Overnight at:

Mandara Hut

Altitude:

2,650 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 2

Ascend beyond the timberline into dramatic Alpine moorlands. Cross open landscapes with stunning views of Mawenzi's rugged peaks. Today's hike is 4–7 hours over 14 km, at a relaxed pace with frequent breaks. Take in the fresh mountain air before reaching the welcoming Horombo Hut.

Overnight at:

Horombo Hut

Altitude:

3,700 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 3

Today is dedicated to acclimatization. After breakfast, take a short hike towards Mawenzi Ridge (approx. 3–4 hours round trip). This excursion enhances your chances of a successful summit by helping your body adapt to the altitude. Return to Horombo Hut for a restful afternoon and evening.

Overnight at:

Horombo Hut

Altitude:

3,700 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 4

Fuel up with breakfast before trekking across the otherworldly "saddle" linking Kibo and Mawenzi. This surreal landscape marks your 5–6 hour journey to Kibo Hut, perched at 4,700 meters. Rest early tonight—you’ll need your energy for the final ascent to Africa’s highest point!

Overnight at:

Kibo Hut

Altitude:

4,700 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 5

Summit Day! Begin in the dark, guided by stars and determination. Push onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) just in time for sunrise—a moment that will stay with you forever. After celebrating at the roof of Africa, descend to Horombo Hut for a well-earned night’s rest.

Overnight at:

Horombo Hut

Altitude:

3,700 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 6

Enjoy a relaxed descent through changing landscapes, heading back to Marangu Gate. Celebrate your epic achievement with a champagne brunch hosted by Genes Adventures. After heartfelt goodbyes, transfer back to your hotel for well-deserved relaxation and memories to last a lifetime.

Overnight at:

Hotel/lodge

Altitude:

n/a

Meal plan:

Half board

2025

1 pax:

2 pax:

3 pax:

4 pax:

5 pax:

6 pax and more:

$1,985

$1,875

$1,840

$1,830

$1,820

$1,795

2026

1 pax:

2 pax:

3 pax:

4 pax:

5 pax:

6 pax and more:

$2,010

$1,900

$1,865

$1,855

$1,845

$1,820

2027

1 pax:

2 pax:

3 pax:

4 pax:

5 pax:

6 pax and more:

$2,035

$1,925

$1,890

$1,880

$1,870

$1,845

Please note: The above prices are indicative and refer to the climb only. For a complete, tailor-made package including transfers, accommodations, and more – contact us for a personalized quote! All our published prices are subject to our Terms and Conditions. For full details, we kindly invite you to review them by clicking [here].

Inclusive:

Park entry, hut fees, and rescue fees
Services of a professional mountain guide, chef, and support crew
Shared accommodation in mountain huts
Cooking equipment provided
Emergency evacuation coverage
Access to emergency oxygen
All transfers and activities as outlined above

Exlusive:

Tipping can be a sensitive topic in many European/Western countries, but it is a common practice in the tourism industry in East Africa. Check our Tipping Guideline below!
Beverages (treated and boiled drinking water provided on the mountain)
Personal snacks such as energy/protein bars, sweets, crisps, etc.
Personal climbing gear, including sleeping bag and sleeping pad (e.g., Thermarest)
Visa fees and airport departure taxes
International flights and airport transfers
Personal items and anything not specified in the itinerary above

Tipping Guideline Kilimanjaro Climb:

Head Guide: $25-$30 per day / group
Assistant Guide: $15-$20 per day / group
Porters: $7-$10 per porter per day / group
Cook: $12-$15 per day / group
Camp Master: $10-$12 per day / group
Toilet Master: $10-$12 per day / group
Waiter: $12-15 per day / group

Hydration:

Drink Plenty of Water: Aim for at least 3 liters daily, or more at higher altitudes. Soups are excellent for warming up.
Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Skip energy drinks that cause dehydration, as well as coffee and powdered milk. Instead, opt for tea with honey or glucose, which is available in Arusha.
Insulated Bottles: At higher altitudes, keep an insulated water bottle in your sleeping bag or wrapped in clothing to prevent freezing.
Hydration Systems: Water bladders (like Platypus) are convenient at lower altitudes but may freeze higher up. Always carry an alternative container.
Purification: All drinking water is boiled and purified with tablets.

Staying Warm and Dry:

Clothing: Specialized clothing is crucial. Pack a spare set of thermals in a dry bag for evening use.
Layering: First and second layers are essential during walks. Evening clothing should include heavier layers such as a thicker fleece or Polartec sweater. Insulated gloves, hats, and socks are vital.
Daytime Wear: You'll often climb in shorts and breathable T-shirts (avoid cotton, which retains moisture and freezes overnight). Opt for quick-drying, synthetic tops.
Evening Wear: Heavier jackets and layers will be necessary after sunset.
Packing Motto: "Better to have more than less." Modern technical clothing is lightweight and packs down small.

Tips for Altitude and Walking:

Day Pack: Carry only essentials (jacket, water, snacks) in a 20–30L backpack with a hip strap.
Walking Poles: Great for balance, uphill leverage, and reducing downhill impact on knees.
Pacing: Walk at a comfortable, steady speed. Breathe deeply, syncing breaths with steps (e.g., 2-3 steps per breath). Avoid rushing.
Breaks: Short stops to catch your breath are fine; drink water and enjoy the view. Avoid sitting down unnecessarily.
Energy Snacks: Bring high-energy foods like chocolate and muesli bars for quick boosts.

Summit Day:

Clothing: Specialized clothing is crucial. Pack a spare set of thermals in a dry bag for evening use.
Layering: First and second layers are essential during walks. Evening clothing should include heavier layers such as a thicker fleece or Polartec sweater. Insulated gloves, hats, and socks are vital.
Daytime Wear: You'll often climb in shorts and breathable T-shirts (avoid cotton, which retains moisture and freezes overnight). Opt for quick-drying, synthetic tops.
Evening Wear: Heavier jackets and layers will be necessary after sunset.
Packing Motto: "Better to have more than less." Modern technical clothing is lightweight and packs down small.

Gear Recommendations While Walking:

1st Layer: Thermal tops and leggings (polypropylene or geothermal materials).
2nd Layer: Lightweight Polartec or similar long-sleeved sweater.
3rd Layer: Lightweight wind-stopper fleece.
4th Layer: Breathable, waterproof shell (e.g., Gore-Tex).
Waterproof Overpants: Essential for wet or windy conditions.

Gear Recommendations At Camp:

1st Layer: Dry thermals (a second pair is necessary).
2nd Layer: Heavier Polartec or similar sweater.
3rd Layer: Heavier fleece or down jacket.
4th Layer: Fleece overpants or jogging bottoms.
5th Layer: Breathable wind-stopper shell
6th Layer: Breathable wind-stopper overpants.

Final Notes:

This guide covers the essentials. If you have further questions or need to rent specialized equipment, please let us know in advance. Best of luck from all of us at Genes Adventures!

This itinerary is just an example of the climb only!

Your Kilimanjaro adventure will be fully customized based on your preferences, group size, travel dates, and acclimatization needs. We’re here to help you reach the Roof of Africa in comfort and safety!