Kilimanjaro Day Hike Marangu Route

Serengeti Wildlife Safaris

Kilimanjaro Day Hike: Marangu Route – A Taste of Africa’s Highest Peak

1 Day

Overview

This Kilimanjaro day hike is designed to give you a genuine feel for the mountain's diverse ecosystems without committing to a multi-day trek. The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is renowned for its relatively gentle slope and well-maintained path, making it an ideal choice for a day excursion. You'll trek through lush rainforest, encounter unique flora and fauna, and enjoy breathtaking views, all while being guided by experienced and knowledgeable local guides.

  • Scenic Beauty: Hike through dense rainforest with rich biodiversity.
  • Accessible Adventure: Experience Kilimanjaro without the commitment of a full summit climb.
  • Cultural Insight: Learn about the local Chagga people and their connection to the mountain.
  • Professional Guidance: Trek with certified, experienced Kilimanjaro guides.
  • Convenient Start: Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
  • All-Inclusive: Includes park fees, packed lunch, water, and transport.

Itinerary

07:00 AM: Pick-up from Arusha/Moshi Your adventure begins with a prompt pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi by your Serengeti Wildlife Safaris driver-guide. Enjoy a comfortable drive to Marangu Gate, the starting point of your Kilimanjaro day hike.

08:30 AM: Arrival at Marangu Gate (1,860m / 6,100ft) Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you'll complete the necessary park registration formalities. Your guide will provide a brief orientation about the trek, the route, and what to expect. This is also a good time for a final restroom break.

09:00 AM: Begin the Hike to Mandara Hut (2,700m / 8,860ft) Start your ascent through the verdant montane rainforest. The trail is well-defined and gradually slopes upwards. As you trek, your guide will point out interesting plant species, such as the giant ferns and towering trees, and perhaps even some colobus monkeys swinging through the canopy. The air will be fresh and invigorating.

12:00 PM: Arrive at Mandara Hut After approximately 2.5 to 3 hours of hiking, you'll reach Mandara Hut, located at 2,700 meters. This is a cluster of wooden huts where climbers on longer treks spend their first night. Here, you'll enjoy your packed lunch amidst the serene mountain environment. You'll also have the option to take a short walk (about 15 minutes) to Maundi Crater, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and, on a clear day, glimpses of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

01:30 PM: Begin Descent to Marangu Gate After a refreshing break and absorbing the views, you'll begin your descent back to Marangu Gate. The downhill trek is generally quicker and less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the forest's tranquility at a more relaxed pace.

04:00 PM: Arrive back at Marangu Gate You'll reach Marangu Gate, where you'll sign out of the park. Your Serengeti Wildlife Safaris vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel.

04:30 PM: Drive back to Arusha/Moshi Relax and reflect on your incredible Kilimanjaro experience as you drive back to your accommodation.

06:00 PM: Drop-off at your hotel in Arusha/Moshi You'll be dropped off at your hotel, concluding your memorable Kilimanjaro day hike.

Included & Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Arusha or Moshi.
  • Experienced, licensed, English-speaking Kilimanjaro guide.
  • National Park entrance fees.
  • Packed lunch and bottled drinking water.
  • Government taxes and levies.
  • Tips for guides (highly recommended).
  • Personal hiking gear (can be rented locally).
  • Travel insurance.
  • Any items of a personal nature.

Map

Frequent Asked Question

What is the starting point for the Kilimanjaro day hike, and what time does the pick-up usually occur?

he starting point for the hike is Marangu Gate. Pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi typically occurs at 07:00

hat is the "Marangu Route" also known as, and why is it suitable for a day hike?

The Marangu Route is also known as the "Coca-Cola Route." It's suitable for a day hike due to its relatively gentle slope and well-maintained path, making it less strenuous for a shorter excursion.

What is the highest point reached during this one-day trek, and what can hikers expect to do there?

he highest point reached is Mandara Hut, at 2,700 meters (8,860ft). At Mandara Hut, hikers will enjoy a packed lunch and have the option to take a short walk to Maundi Crater for scenic views.

What are some key inclusions in this Kilimanjaro day hike package offered by Serengeti Wildlife Safaris?

Key inclusions are round-trip transportation from Arusha or Moshi, an experienced English-speaking guide, National Park entrance fees, packed lunch, bottled drinking water, and government taxes and levies.

What essential items should hikers pack for this day trip, according to the provided list?

Essential items to pack include a small daypack, comfortable hiking boots, a rain jacket/poncho, a warm fleece, long-sleeved shirt and hiking pants, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and personal medications.

27% Off
From $330 $240
/ Adult
From $200 $175
/ Child
Kilimanjaro Day Hike: Marangu Route – A Taste of Africa’s Highest Peak