Tour Overview: Kilimanjaro Marangu Day Hike

The Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike offers a perfect taste of Africa’s highest mountain without requiring a multi-day climb. This Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike follows the Marangu Route, known as the Coca-Cola Route, and leads up to Mandara Hut at an elevation of 2,720 meters (9,000 ft). This scenic hike provides an excellent opportunity to explore the lush Montane Forest zone of Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy stunning views, diverse plant life, and even wildlife such as monkeys and exotic birds.

This Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike is ideal for adventurers who want to experience Kilimanjaro without the physical demands of a full ascent.

Location & Travel Times

• From Moshi:
  • Distance to Marangu Gate: Approximately 45 km
  • Travel Time: 1 hour
  • Departure Time: 08:30 AM
  • Return Time: Around 06:45 PM
• From Arusha:
  • Distance to Marangu Gate: Approximately 120 km
  • Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
  • Departure Time: 06:00 AM (to arrive at Marangu Gate on time)
  • Return Time: Around 08:45 PM

Day-by-Day Itinerary of Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike

Marangu Gate (6,000 ft / 1,828 m) – Mandara Hut (9,000 ft / 2,720 m)

• Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours up, 2 – 3 hours down
• Total Distance: Approx. 16 km (round trip)
• Habitat: Dense Montane Forest

Itinerary Details

• 06:00 AM (Arusha Departure)
  Guests depart from Arusha and travel towards Marangu Gate, arriving by approximately 9:00 AM in our Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike.
• 08:30 AM (Moshi Departure)
  Guests leave Moshi and drive for about 1 hour to reach Marangu Gate, the starting point for the hike of our Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike.
• 09:30 AM – Begin the Hike
  After registration and a short briefing at the gate, begin hiking through the lush rainforest, home to a variety of flora and fauna. The path is well-maintained and shaded by a high canopy.
• 12:30 – 01:30 PM – Arrive at Mandara Hut
  Reach Mandara Hut, located at 2,720 meters. Enjoy lunch, rest, and take a short optional walk to Maundi Crater for panoramic views of Northern Tanzania and southern Kenya (approx. 15-minute walk).
• 02:00 PM – Begin Descent
  Begin hiking back down the same trail towards Marangu Gate.
• 04:45 PM – Arrive at Marangu Gate
  Complete the hike and receive your hiking certificate (optional). Meet your driver for the return of your Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Day Hike.
• 06:45 PM – Arrive Back in Moshi
• 08:45 PM – Arrive Back in Arusha (if starting from Arusha)

What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Light rain jacket or poncho
• Refillable water bottle
• Snacks and packed lunch (if not provided)
• Sunscreen and hat
• Camera for scenic views

Highlights

• Experience Mount Kilimanjaro up close in just one day
• Explore lush rainforest teeming with wildlife
• Visit Mandara Hut and Maundi Crater
• Suitable for all fitness levels
• No camping or technical gear required

Price