Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa. This gorgeous mountain that attracts thousands of trekkers and tourists every year is about 19,340 feet above sea level. Mt. Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania near the border with Kenya. In Mt. Kilimanjaro, there are three peaks which are named Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. Among all these three cones, Kibo is the tallest volcanic formation while Mawenzi and Shira are extinct. As per record, nearly 35,000 to 40,000 trekkers around the globe come to trek the mountain every year. Many of these tourists avail of the 5 day Marangu route to the much-coveted summit at Mt. Kilimanjaro. Hence, adventurers from all over the world seek the thrill of this highest point of Africa to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views.
Some key features of trekking to Mt. Kilimanjaro
Over the centuries, Mt. Kilimanjaro has been attracting trekkers, nature lovers, and tourists. Its landscape is mind-blowing. The following are some key features of trekking to Mt. Kilimanjaro:
- Diverse routes: In Kilimanjaro, there are several trekking routes. In each of these routes, you will get unique challenges, and scenic landscapes that may cater to different preferences and fitness levels for the level.
- Altitude gain: The trek has a particular altitude gain that provides some challenging and rewarding experience to the trekkers.
- Ecological diversity: When the trekkers ascend the mountain they traverse various ecological zones and see the changes in the flora and fauna starting from lush rain forests to alpine deserts.
- Cultural experience: Most of the time the trekkers interact with the local communities and they get the opportunity to get insights into Tanzanian culture and tradition at the time of their journey.
- Professional guides: You can also find expert guides who will ensure your safety and provide you with valuable insights that remain in the geology, ecology, and history of the mountain.
How the itinerary is arranged through the Marangu route?
The Marangu route is one of the most popular routes to Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This Marangu route is popularly called the “Coco-Cola” route. The itinerary of this route generally spans five days allowing for proper acclimatization. The following is the complete itinerary for 5 days Marangu route:
- Day 1: On day one, the trekkers have to start at Marangu gate and they need to trek through the dense rainforest to Mandara Hut.
- Day 2: On day two, the trekkers need to ascend through Moorland to Horombo Hut and gradually gain altitude. Then the trekkers should rest at the Horombo Hut for the rest of the day. Everything is arranged professionally but Ice Rock Trekking also ensures a personal touch to every arrangement.
- Day 3: On day three, the trekkers should trek to Kibo to enter the alpine desert, and experience the spectacular views. It will be a mind-blowing and unforgettable experience for the trekkers during their 5 days Marangu route.
- Day 4: On day four, the trekker should travel from Midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak and then he should start descending to Horombo Hut and reach that hut on that day itself.
- Day 5: On the fifth day, the trekker should descend to Marangu gate and once he reaches the Marangu gate the trekking is completed.
In both the Horombo hut and Marangu hut there are facilities of basic shelter for the trekkers and the Marangu route offers different landscapes starting from rain forests to glaciers. While traveling through this route the trekker experiences more scenic beauty as compared to other routes. That is the reason why most trekkers prefer to trek this mountain through this route. Ice Rock Trekking is a trusted name in the domain of African tourism. They offer unparalleled professional safety and customized itineraries for tourists and trekkers in Tanzania and Kenya.
