Summit Mount Kilimanjaro with Sunny Outdoors
About the Experience
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is the ultimate adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Marangu Route offers a uniquely rewarding way to experience this iconic peak. Known as the "Coca-Cola Route," Marangu is the most established path, featuring comfortable accommodations in mountain huts, incredible scenery, and a gradual ascent that maximizes your chances of reaching the summit. This epic end-of-year journey promises breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, culminating in the spectacular Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. It's the perfect way to close the year and start the next with a sense of achievement and awe.
The Trail
The Marangu Route is a 5- to 6-day trek, covering approximately 70 kilometers round-trip. It is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations, offering a bit more comfort than camping. The trail begins at the Marangu Gate, winding through dense rainforest alive with diverse wildlife. As you ascend, the landscape shifts dramatically—from heather-covered moorlands to rocky alpine terrain and eventually the snowy summit. Key landmarks include the Maundi Crater, Kibo Hut, and Gilman’s Point, each offering stunning views and memorable experiences.
This route is favored for its gradual elevation gain, but don't underestimate the physical demands. Proper acclimatization is crucial, and the reward is worth every step—a sunrise summit over Africa’s rooftop.
Packing List
To ensure a successful and comfortable trek, pack the following essentials:
Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down)
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers
- Trekking pants and thermal leggings
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in) and thermal socks
Gear:
- Daypack (20-30L) with a rain cover
- Duffel bag for porters (max 15kg)
- Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Essentials:
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (at least 3L)
- Water purification tablets
- High-energy snacks
- Sunglasses (UV protection) and sunscreen
- Personal first aid kit and medications (including altitude sickness medication)
- Toiletries and quick-dry towel
Documents:
- Passport and visa (if applicable)
- Travel insurance details
- Vaccination records
- Park permits (arranged through your guide or tour operator)
Itinerary (27 December - 3 January)
Day 1: 27 December
- Arrival in Moshi
- Settle into your lodge, meet your guides, and finalize gear checks. Enjoy a briefing about the climb ahead.
Day 2: 28 December
- Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Distance: 8 km
- Elevation: 1,970m to 2,720m
- Trek through lush rainforest, with chances to spot Colobus monkeys. Overnight at Mandara Hut.
Day 3: 29 December
- Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Distance:12 km
- Elevation: 2,720m to 3,720m
- Ascend into moorlands with stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 4: 30 December
- Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
- Take a short hike to Zebra Rocks (3,980m) and return to Horombo Hut for rest. This day helps your body adjust to higher altitudes.
Day 5: 31 December
- Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Distance:10 km
- Elevation:3,720m to 4,700m
- Cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Prepare for your midnight summit push.
Day 6: 1 January
- Summit Day: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Distance: 6 km ascent, 15 km descent
- Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) and down to 3,720m
- Begin the climb at midnight. Witness an unforgettable sunrise at Uhuru Peak and descend to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Day 7: 2 January
- Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Distance: 20 km
- Elevation:3,720m to 1,970m
- Descend through the rainforest. Collect your summit certificate and transfer back to Moshi.
Day 8: 3 January
- Departure
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast and bid farewell to your guides. Depart from Moshi, taking memories of an incredible adventure with you.
Bookings
Ready to embark on this epic adventure? Reserve your spot today!
- Booking Link: https://sunny-outdoors.com/products/kilimanjaro-epic
- Phone:+256702590664
- Email:info@sunny-outdoors.com