6-Day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Trek
6-Day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Trek
The 6-Day Marangu Route, dubbed the “Coca-Cola” route, is a classic Kilimanjaro trek to Africa’s summit. Comfortable hike with diverse ecosystems, lush rainforests to alpine desert. Day 1 starts at Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut. Day 2 to Horombo Hut, Day 3 for acclimatization. Day 4 to Kibo Hut, gearing up for Day 5 summit attempt. After reaching Uhuru Peak, descend to Horombo Hut, return to Marangu Gate on Day 6. Balanced approach to Kilimanjaro’s summit.
When is the best time to visit Tanzania?
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests, budget, and what you want to experience.
High Season (June to October & December to February):
This is the prime time for wildlife viewing, with dry conditions making it easier to spot animals around waterholes. The weather is pleasant, and parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro are at their most vibrant. However, it is also the busiest time, with higher rates and more visitors.
Mid-Season (March & November):
A great balance between affordability and adventure, this season offers fewer crowds and moderate prices. While rains may occasionally occur, they bring lush scenery and great opportunities for wildlife spotting in a quieter, more relaxed setting.
Low Season (April & May):
For budget travelers, this is the perfect time to visit. Hotel rates are at their lowest, and the parks are wonderfully tranquil. Though some rains may limit access to certain areas, the landscapes are beautifully green, and wildlife remains active, offering a unique and peaceful safari experience.
No matter when you visit, Pyana Travel & Tours ensures that your safari is tailored to provide incredible experiences, from sunrise game drives to the breathtaking beauty of Tanzania’s wild landscapes.
What can I expect from a safari in Tanzania with Pyana Travel & Tours?
A safari with Pyana Travel & Tours means experiencing Tanzania like never before. Our safaris are private, tailored to your pace, and guided by expert English-speaking professionals who know the ins and outs of the wild. From the moment you step into your comfortable private safari vehicle, you will embark on a journey to witness wildlife in their natural habitats, from lions prowling in the Serengeti to elephants roaming freely in Tarangire National Park.
With us, you will experience exceptional service, exclusive access to Tanzania’s hidden gems, and unforgettable moments. Whether you want to start your day with a sunrise game drive or relax by your lodge, we ensure that every aspect of your trip is memorable.
How can I personalize my Tanzania trip with your services?
At Pyana Travel & Tours, we believe that every traveler deserves a unique experience. That’s why we offer personalized itineraries based on your interests, whether it’s exploring the vast Serengeti plains, relaxing on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, or witnessing the Big Five up close. We take the time to understand your preferences and tailor your journey to match.
Our team works closely with you from start to finish, ensuring that your trip reflects your personal desires and schedule. Whether it’s adjusting the timing of your game drives or including a cultural excursion, we make sure every detail is designed around you.
Can I see the Big Five in Tanzania?
Absolutely! Tanzania is one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo. These magnificent creatures can be found in some of the most iconic locations like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. With our expert guides, you will have the best chance to encounter them in their natural environment.
Is it safe to travel to Tanzania?
Yes, Tanzania is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. The country is known for its friendly locals, vibrant culture, and rich wildlife. We always prioritize your safety during the trip, and our experienced guides ensure that you travel with peace of mind.
We recommend that you take the usual travel precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and following local guidelines. But overall, Tanzania is one of the safest destinations for tourists, offering a remarkable adventure that you will cherish for years to come.
6-Day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Trek
Trip Details
Included & Excluded
- Accommodation
- Guided Tours & Activities
- Meals
- Island Hopping & Adventure Tours
- Other Perks
- Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Optional Activities
- Meals Not Mentioned in Itinerary
Your dream trip, your price
Our experts will work with you to find the best option for your stay. They are truly the best at making your trip exactly as you dream it, specially tailored to your unique travel experience.
To find your perfect match, Pyana Travel &Tours offers various options for your stay, depending on your personal preferences and budget.
Our price indication page provides an overview of different seasons: low, mid, and high, as well as different types of accommodations: silver, gold, and platinum. The price of your stay will partly depend on whether you are seeking luxury and comfort or are more focused on adventure and nature. Anyway, we always have something to offer!
We cannot wait to help you creating your next dream trip in Tanzania.
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins as you arrive at the Marangu Gate, the starting point for the Marangu Route. Here, you’ll complete park formalities and meet your team of experienced guides and porters. The trek starts with a hike through the lush rainforest, where you’ll encounter vibrant flora and fauna. The day’s journey covers approximately 8 kilometers and is relatively easy. Your first overnight stop is Mandara Hut, situated at an elevation of around 2,700 meters.
Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation: Mandara Hut
Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks
After a nourishing breakfast, you’ll continue your ascent, leaving the rainforest behind and entering the heathland zone. This leg of the journey offers glimpses of Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s iconic formations. You’ll trek for approximately 12 kilometers, and your destination for the night is Horombo Hut, located at an altitude of about 3,700 meters.
Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks
Proper acclimatization is crucial for a successful summit attempt. This day is dedicated to helping your body adjust to the increasing altitude. You can choose to take a short hike to Zebra Rocks, which offers scenic views, or simply relax at Horombo Hut. Rest and acclimatization are essential for your upcoming challenges.
Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks
Today’s hike takes you to Kibo Hut, which is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,700 meters. The landscape undergoes a dramatic change as you enter the alpine desert zone. You’ll catch your first glimpse of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, the dormant volcanic cones. The hike is challenging due to the increased altitude, so pacing and hydration are essential.
Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks
This is the most challenging and exhilarating day of your trek. Your ascent to the summit begins in the early hours of the morning, allowing you to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, just before sunrise. The climb is both physically and mentally demanding but incredibly rewarding. After celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll begin your descent to Kibo Hut and then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
Main Destination: Uhuru Peak (Mt Kilimanjaro)
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro
Meals & Drinks: All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks
The final day of your Kilimanjaro trek takes you from Horombo Hut back to the Marangu Gate. As you descend, you’ll pass through the heath and rainforest zones, where you might spot various wildlife like colobus monkeys and birds. After reaching the Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and say farewell to your dedicated guides and porters.
Main Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
Non-alcoholic drinks
Silver accommodations
Our silver accommodations are comfortable and affordable options for a pleasant stay in Africa. Nothing glamourous or luxurious, but you can expect decent and enjoyable lodging for an overnight stay. All properties are well-maintained and provide clean rooms, comfy beds, private bathrooms with hot water showers, and lovely dining rooms. Minor points to note are that WiFi may only be available in certain areas, and dinner is typically served as a buffet. But the accommodations usually lie in beautiful surroundings, and some boast swimming pools or other extras.
Golden accommodations
Our golden accommodations take it up a notch, offering that extra touch of comfort and luxury. Here, you can indulge in well-designed rooms and buildings, usually set in beautiful locations. These accommodations feature fine, thoughtfully designed rooms with lush beds, fully equipped bathrooms, and private balconies with scenic views. You will enjoy excellent meals in buffets or à la carte menus and have free access to swimming pools. As a cherry on top, you might spot wildlife directly from the lodge, with monkeys in trees or animals coming to drink at a nearby waterhole.
Platinum accommodations
Our platinum accommodations provide enhanced luxury, as they offer beautifully designed lodges and resorts in the most amazing locations. The service in these places is impeccable, all amenities you can think of are present, and rooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. Oftentimes, they boast private plunge pools or luxurious outside rain showers, wide beds, exquisite food, amazing service, and beautiful terraces with fluffy sofas. And of course, these accommodations boast the most remarkable views over extraordinary landscapes.
Diamond accommodations
Our diamond accommodations offer the ultimate luxury experience in Africa. Nothing less than the best of the best! We take you to places that pamper you with the utmost luxury and comfort in stunning settings that give your Tanzanian adventure a memorable twist. You stay in places that are unique in their design, geographical location, and service and sleep, for example, on private islands, in treetop rooms inside national parks, or on the rim of a crater. You experience the utmost privacy and seclusion while you enjoy sundowners in private plunge pools or outdoor bathtubs with a view, indulge in haute cuisine in fine restaurants, get pampered in a luxury spa or with in-room massages, and get your morning coffee served by private butlers while watching the wildlife from your terrace.
Practical Information for Your Safari Adventure
1. Visa and Entry Requirements
- Visas: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. Apply for a tourist visa in advance or obtain a visa on arrival (depending on your nationality).
- Vaccinations: Some countries require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. Consult your doctor about other recommended vaccines.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for all travelers.
2. Health and Safety
- Malaria Prevention: Tanzania and other safari destinations are malaria zones. Carry anti-malarial medication and insect repellents.
- First Aid: Our safari vehicles are equipped with first-aid kits. Notify us in advance of any medical conditions.
- Water Safety: Only drink bottled or boiled water during your trip.
3. Packing List
- Clothing: Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright colors to blend with nature), a hat, sunglasses, and a warm jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.
- Accessories: Binoculars, a good camera, sunscreen, lip balm, and a power bank.
- Luggage: Soft duffle bags are preferred for ease of packing in safari vehicles.
- Malaria Prevention: Tanzania and other safari destinations are malaria zones. Carry anti-malarial medication and insect repellents.
- First Aid: Our safari vehicles are equipped with first-aid kits. Notify us in advance of any medical conditions.
- Water Safety: Only drink bottled or boiled water during your trip.
4. Weather and Climate
- Dry Season (June to October): Best for game viewing as animals gather around water sources.
- Wet Season (November to May): Ideal for bird watching and witnessing lush landscapes. April and May experience heavy rains.
5. Safari Etiquette
- Wildlife Respect: Keep a safe distance from animals, do not feed or touch them, and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
- Noise Levels: Maintain silence during game drives for better wildlife viewing and to respect other travelers.
- Photography: Avoid flash photography as it may disturb the animals.
6. Transportation
- Game Drives: Travel in custom 4×4 safari vehicles equipped with pop-up roofs for optimal viewing.
- Airport Transfers: Included in most packages. Specify your arrival details when booking.
- Domestic Flights: Available for remote safari destinations or to connect with Zanzibar.
7. Accommodations
- Options: Pyana Travel and Tours offers luxury lodges, tented camps, and budget-friendly accommodations.
- Amenities: Most lodges provide modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and electricity
8. Local Culture
- Languages: Swahili and English are widely spoken.
- Tipping: Common practice to tip your guides, drivers, and lodge staff. Suggested amount: $10–$20 per day for guides.
- Community Visits: We offer optional cultural tours to interact with local tribes like the Maasai and Hadzabe.
9. Payment and Booking
- Payment Methods: We accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and mobile money.
- Deposits: A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking, with the balance due 30 days before departure.
- Cancellations: Check our cancellation policy for details.
Make your dream trip come true with Pyana Travel & Tours
At Pyana Travel & Tours, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey!
WHY PYANA TRAVEL & TOURS?
- Highest service
- Quickest response time
- 100% specialized in Tanzania
- Skilled travel consultants living in Tanzania
- World class safari guides
- Competitive rates
- Top rated private safaris
