The Marangu route is warmly known as the Tourist or Coca Cola route, in reference to the trail’s popularity and creature comforts available along the way. This trail carries hikers through the lush montane forests, across the dramatic moorland and into the bare alpine desert before reaching the summit. Renowned for having both the best forest trail rich with waterfalls, and breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks throughout the journey, this is an easier introduction to the mountain for novice hikers. There are plenty of detours off the trail which reveal remarkable views of the expansive craters, crevasses and the plains below. Blue monkeys, snack vendors and picnic areas dot the sides of this well-established trail, making for pleasant hiking that cover no more than 12km in a given day.

Approximately 70% of hikers opt to take this trail, given its gentle gradients, short route, lower cost and comfortable accommodation options. Drinks, chocolate and mineral are readily available at the three rest camps, in addition the provisions supplied by the tour. The trail does however have a reputation for higher crowds and litter during the high season. Additionally, due to the quick ascent and the trail’s alleged ease, less experienced and unprepared hikers often select this route. This results in the Marangu Route holding the lowest rate for successful summits. However, with drive and time, a summit is very much attainable for hikers with basic physical fitness and a genuine drive to see Uhuru Peak!

What to pack for Kilimanjaro

Those hiking Kilimanjaro will receive a comprehensive packing list upon booking your tour. The following list will however give you a rough idea of the necessary gear and equipment.

• Layered clothing (wicking material, fleece)
• Light down jacket
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Warm socks
• Trekking socks
• Gaiters
• Brimmed hat
• Warm hat
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp
• Gloves
• Trekking poles
• Day pack with rain cover
• Sleeping bag
• Pillow
• Thermal mat
• Water bottle
• Necessary medication
• Sunscreen
• Small first aid kit (pain killers, band aids etc.)
• Toiletries
• Camera!

Tour Program

Day 1: Welcome to Africa!

Today you finally arrive at the base of Kilimanjaro! As you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania, you will catch your first exciting glimpse of the mountain as you land. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, a member of the Aventura team will meet you at arrivals and drive you to your hotel. Note that the specific hotel will be decided based on your personal preferences, and lodge availability at the time of booking. Additional information on options will be provided.

The rest of your day will be spent in preparation for the hike. Aventura team members will provide a final briefing on what to expect and review packed items. Any non-essential hiking items will be stored with Aventura until your return from the mountain.

When you are prepared to hike, it will be time for a final dinner and an early night since tomorrow you will take off early for the base of the mountain!

Day 2: Mandara Hut (1,860m)

Today an Aventura team member will drive you to the Marangu Gate of Kilimanjaro from your hotel to begin the long awaited ascent! After completing the necessary paperwork and registration, you will be introduced to your guides and will conduct a final check on equipment and supplies. And then, you are off!

This first day will ease you into the rhythm of hiking with a shorter 8km hike lasting between 3 – 4 hours and ascending approximately 840m through the lush montane forests of the lower mountain. Rain gear is often wise through this damp forest, which weaves around streams and waterfalls. With plenty of locations to pause and admire the scenery over a picnic lunch, this well-established wide trail with occasional pitches is a relatively gentle start to the hike.

As the forest dwindles and signs of lichen become more prevalent, you will know the day is rounding to a close. Mandara Huts sit at the beginning of the second climactic zone: alpine heath and moorland. The grouping of basic triangular wooden huts is tucked into a clearing in the forest and will be a welcome reprieve after the first full day. For those arriving with slightly more energy, there is a quick 15-minute detour to the Maundi Crater with great views of Mawenzi, one of Kilmanjaro’s three volcanic cones. For those with less energy, it is time to snuggle into your warm clothes and enjoy your first meal on the mountain before falling fast asleep.

Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m)

 This morning you will rise early for a mountainside breakfast before taking off to the next site. A slightly more challenging day, you and your team will travel 12km with an ascent of roughly 1000m. Today’s hike will lead you far away from the woodland and across the moorland. Keep your eyes open in the early part of the day since you will have a good chance at spotting blue monkeys that enjoy this region of the mountain

Over the course of the day, the trail meanders across the wide open spaces, with giant senecios and loblelias growing throughout the heather. Both these plants grow well beyond a height of 3 meters and are endemic to the region. A short scrambly detour up to the rim of the Maundi Crater will lead you to great views of the Kibo Crater, with Kibo, Kilimanjaro’s second volcanic glacial peak, visible in the distance.

Today you will ascend significantly more than the first day and the challenges of the altitude may become apparent. Hydration, snacks and rest are key to acclimatization, so be sure to take many stops at the variety of viewpoints.

Towards the end of the day, you will reach the second set of triangular wood cabins – this time, at a much higher altitude and with great views of Mawenzi. On particularly clear days, it is possible to see all the way to the city of Moshi! As the sun sets, you will pull on layers and again cozy in for an evening meal and an early night.

Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Today is an optional acclimatization day with day hikes from Horombo Hut, which is strongly recommended for this route, given the rapid ascent. Leaving your belongings at Horombo, today will be spent ascending and descending on an scenic alternate route. The trail carries hikers through the distinct Zebra Rocks to a stunning vantage point between Kibo and Mawenzi. This hike takes roughly 3 hours and is gives your body a nice rest at the halfway point.

The rest of the day can be spent relaxing around Horombo Huts, giving your legs a rest in preparation for the challenges and excitement ahead!

Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,750m)

As the peak of Kilimanjaro grows near and the temperatures drop, you will wake today knowing that the time to summit is near! Today’s hike will travel 9.5km and will ascend another 1000m over 5- 7 hours. Hikers can choose to retrace their steps from the previous day, going slightly further on the upper route – or to take the secondary and easier lower route for some new vistas.

On both routes you will notice a thinning of vegetation as you pass into the Alpine desert. Water sources will become sporadic until you reach the final water source before the summit. The highlight of today will be finally reaching the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This dramatic and windswept landscape leads you for another two hours across increasingly steep paths ultimately ending at the Kibo Huts. As the day winds to a close, you will fall asleep early to a clear picture of the summit that lies ahead. It will be early to sleep tonight since it is an especially early start to the day tomorrow in order to catch the sunrise!

Day 6: Uhuru Peak (5,896m)

Sometime around midnight, you will wake up to tea and biscuits before beginning the final ascent. Though early, the anticipation of watching the sunrise from the top of Africa is motivation enough to push through this chilly and challenging hike. A rocky path will carry hikers to the Hans Meyer Cave which is a welcome sheltered resting point. From there, it is a zigzagged trail to Gillman’s Point, which sits on the crater rim. It is the most challenging aspect of the entire route, but with time and mental stamina, it is entirely possible. As snow forms on the ground and you approach the glaciers, sheer exhilaration will overtake the exhaustion – the summit and sunrise is near! The weather conditions will determine the amount of time you are able to spend at the top – and this is often unpredictable.

The final ascent is a total of 5.5km and lasts 1 – 2 hours before reaching Uhuru (“Freedom”) peak – the absolute roof of Africa. Rest while you can and soak in the spectacular view and impressive accomplishment of having summited, and then descend down the glacier to avoid the very chilly winds.

As the elation passes, it is time for a much easier descent to Horombo Huts. The descent takes between 5 – 6 hours before you reach the familiar camp for a meal and a soft drink. Horombo Huts is often the busiest camp on the mountain, and you can look forward to regaling other hikers with stories of your adventure as they set out on their own.

Day 7:Kilimajaro or Arusha

Today, your tired bodies will make the final 6-hour descent to the Marangu Gate where your vehicle will await your arrival. You will follow the same trail as you did on your ascent, passing through the moorland and montane forests. The total descent is roughly 20km and takes approximately 5 hours to do – though many do it faster.

At the bottom, hikers are rewarded with summit certificates before heading back to your hotel for a hot shower, hot meal and celebrations before collapsing in a soft warm bed. Again, we will provide a variety of lodging options for you to select from, depending on your preferences.

Day 8: Onwards!

Having recovered from the hike today you will either begin your journey home – or onwards to another fantastic location in Tanzania! We strongly recommend coupling a hike up Kilimanjaro with a few days unwinding and relaxing on the tranquil shores of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Aventura will coordinate either a transfer to your outbound airport, or transfers on to additional packages.

No matter where you choose to continue on to, today you can feel incredibly proud of yourself for conquering the tallest mountain in Africa. Congratulations!Kwaheri na Safari Njema!End of TourKindly consult our team if you’d like to incorporate this Safari with any other of our packages.

Includes

• All accommodation, on a full board basis
• Airport welcome
• All domestic transfers (air and road)
• Some activities, as indicated in your tour package
• Soft drinks, house wine, local spirits, local beers, tea and coffee
• Laundry, communication and internet access are included at some destinations, as noted in your tour package

Excludes

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Premium brand wine, beer and spirits
• Additional activities
• Gratuities
• Costs associated with obtaining visas or passports
• Airport departure taxes and excess baggage charges

CONTENTS

1. Tours with Aventura
2. Visiting Tanzania
3. Travel Logistics
4. Price, Payment and Cash
5. Communication
6. Health and Safety

TOUR WITH AVENTURA

• How far in advance should I book my tour?

Aventura will work to accommodate you whenever you make your booking with us. Provided there is space at our partnering lodges, we can work on very short notice. However, ideally our guests will book roughly 6 months – 1 year in advance of their vacation.

• Do you allow children on Aventura tours?

Definitely! Many of our partnering lodges have accommodation and child friendly options that we will gladly connect you with – just let us know you want to bring children ahead of time. Some of our partnering lodges do have policies that prohibit children on particular activities/locations so we will be sure to work around that.

• Who guides the tours?

Aventura will fully organize your entire tour with various local lodges, and your guides will be provided from these particular lodges. If your tour is to various national parks and lodges, your guide and vehicles will change from location to location, and Aventura will ensure that these transitions are flawless. We have worked thoroughly with each of our partners to ensure every guide and driver is of top quality and able to reflect the values of Aventura.

• Do you provide references from people who have been on tours with you?

Absolutely! You can see some guest testimonials on our website and we are building a profile on Your African Safari, a website devoted to independently reviewing operators across Africa. If you would like to speak directly with past guests, we will also happily make that connection for you.

• Is there electricity? Will I be able to recharge cameras/phones?

Yes, there is electricity though it may not be available 24 hours a day. Many of our partnering lodges run off solar energy or generators, which means they have to conserve usage during certain hours of the day. You will however always have at least a few hours a day where you are able to re-charge camera and cell phone batteries.

• Are there opportunities to meet with local people?

Definitely! Most of our tour packages incorporate at least one visit to a local village, where you can meet with and learn about various Tanzanian tribes and individuals. If you are very interested in a cultural tour of Tanzania, are also able to build you a customized tour that exposes you to the various facets of the population. Check out our Bespoke options for more information!

• Is there laundry?

The majority – though not all – of our partnering lodges do offer a laundry service. The availability and cost differs between locations, and we will provide specifics about access in your particular tour package.

VISITING TANXANIA

• What visa do I need for Tanzania?

The visa required for entry into Tanzania depends on what country you are traveling from. Since immigration policies change frequently, we recommend that you contact the Tanzanian embassy in your home country at least 2 months prior to departure to confirm the most recent requirements.

• When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Hikers climb Kilimanjaro year round, but many prefer to climb it during the driest and warmest months (January – February, July – September). These months do however mean that there are high crowds – if you prefer a quieter hike, June, October and December have moderate temperatures and moderate precipitation. March – May and November are among the coolest and wettest months in the country and consequently the quietest on the mountain.

• How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is the highest ‘walkable’ mountain, meaning that no technical hiking experience is required. In spite of its incredible height, guides recommend only a basic level of fitness and strong motivation. Many say the greatest challenge of the hike is adjusting to the altitude. Depending on your fitness level, we offer four possible trails that vary in difficulty for you to choose between.

• When is the best time to view wildlife in Tanzania?

The dry season in Tanzania (June – October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, since animals concentrate around limited waterholes and there is less vegetation obstructing views. Birding however is better during the northern winter (November – March) when rainfall is high and over 160 species of birds migrate south.

• When is the best time to view the wildebeest migration?

The wildebeest migration follows annual rain patterns that push wildlife to search for greener pastures. This means that specific predictions about when and where the migration will be are difficult. However, in a typical year, guests have the best chance of viewing the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti in June and July. If you are interested in seeing the wildebeest calving, the best time to visit is late January – February.

• When is the best time to visit the islands?

The archipelago is popular year round, with August – October being among the most popular months. There are long rains between March and May that may make the coast somewhat less idyllic.

• Is Zanzibar in the same country as Tanzania?

Yes, they have been part of the same country since 1963, though the region is semi-autonomous.

• What kind of plug is used in Tanzania?

Tanzania uses the same outlets as are found in the United Kingdom – A Type G 3 pronged flat pin plug (see Figure 1). Occasionally Tanzanians also use the Old British plug – A Type D 3 pronged circular pin (see Figure 2). The voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. We recommend purchasing at least one travel adaptor prior to departing for Tanzania.

TRAVEL LOGISTIC

• Do you handle airline tickets?

Airline tickets are not included in the packages we offer, but we can offer support in booking tickets for our guests. Please let us know if you would like assistance here.

• Do you handle travel insurance?

We do not book insurance for our clients; however, we will help you find a provider that suits your particular needs. We recommend all guests read the following document published by ABTA on selecting an insurance provider, and if you would like additional guidance please reach out to us.

• How do we get around once in Tanzania?

Aventura will organize all local transport associated with your tour, beginning with an airport pickup minute you land on Tanzanian soil. All transport costs are included in your package. Depending on your particular package, transport may involve domestic flights, road transfers and boats. Particular details of your transport will be included in your package details upon booking.

• Is there a suggested packing list?

Of course! Once you have selected a package with us, we will email you a packing list that is tailored perfectly to your particular activities. However, in general we recommend the following items:

• • Long loose light coloured clothing, offering protection from insects and sun
  • A fleece sweater for chilly evenings
  • Wide brimmed hat, sunglasses
  • Bathing suit and sarong
  • Comfortable walking shoes, hiking boots if climbing Kilimanjaro
  • Thermal underwear, if climbing Kilimanjaro

• Are there luggage limits?

International airlines will independently set baggage restrictions and it is important you check with your airline prior to departing. Once in Tanzania, baggage restrictions will depend on your particular tour package. We will include customized baggage restrictions with your customized packing list upon booking your flight.

PRICE, PAYMENT & CASH

• What if I have to cancel my reservation?

Cancellation policies vary depending on the lodges in which you are booked and specifics will be provided upon booking.

• What is included in the tour price?

Your tour price includes the following:

• • Meet and greet service upon arrival
  • Transfers as shown
  • Exclusive use of 4×4 safari vehicles with photo roof during the safari portion
  • Services of English speaking drivers and guides
  • Meals and accommodation as specified (varies between packages)
  • All park fees and government taxes
  • One bottle of water per day on game drives

• What is not included in the tour price?

Your tour price does not include the following items:

• • International flights
  • Airport taxes on any flights not booked through Aventura
  • Passport and visa fees
  • Gratuities
  • Activities not included on the itinerary
  • Personal travel, baggage and medical insurance
  • Laundry (varies between packages, as some lodges build this into their cost)
  • Telephone bills and items of a personal nature
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal shopping
  • Select alcoholic beverages
  • Gear (walking stick, flashlight, hat, sunglasses, bed mats etc.)

• Can’t we save money by booking with the lodges directly?

No. The benefit to booking through Aventura is that we are able to use our industry connections to secure discounted rates with various lodges, hotels and transport providers within the country. While you will pay a small service fee to our company, this fee will save you the headache and complications of organizing a trip on your own. This fee also ensure that your entire trip will run smoothly, and that no minute of your vacation is wasted with negotiations, disappointments or frustrations.

• Do you accept credit cards?

Absolutely! We are fully equipped to accept payments online from all major credit cards.

• Do I need to bring cash with me? Which currency should I bring?

Yes, you should bring additional cash for personal purchases. We recommend bringing US Dollars (issued after 2003) and converting them into Tanzanian Shillings upon arrival. It is possible to convert Travellers Cheques in major cities as well, but these are often more hassle than they are worth. You are also able to use local ATMs to make withdrawals off your credit card in our local currency. Be sure you alert your bank if you plan to use your credit card abroad, and that you confirm charges for international transactions and withdrawals.

COMMUNICATION

• What language is spoken in Tanzania?

English and Swahili are the national languages. All tourism operators, and most Tanzanians, will speak English.

• Is there cell phone reception?

Most of our lodges are located in regions of Tanzania that have reception (though of course, not all of them). Lodge staff will always have a means of communicating with our head office.

• Is there internet available?

Internet is available at some of our partnering lodges, though not many. Details regarding internet accessibility will be included in your particular package details. Should you require constant access, we recommend researching data roaming packages with your local cell phone provider.

• What if there is an emergency at home?

We will provide you with an emergency number that you can pass on to friends and family at home. Should there be an in emergency at home, they can contact the Aventura Head Office and we will connect to you – wherever you are – as quickly as possible. Depending on the nature of the emergency, we will take steps to connect you to friends and family at home.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• Is it safe to visit Tanzania?

Tanzania is safe to visit, however there are always risks taken when traveling. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is of paramount importance when designing a tour and we will be sure to have you stay only in reputable locations and provide transport only from trusted sources. We brief every guest on safety policies and procedures, in addition to risk mitigation strategies.

• What vaccinations do I need?

We recommend that all guests visit a local travel clinic prior to departure, where a medical professional can review your medical history and explain the vaccination options. Visitors to Tanzania must be able to show a Yellow Fever vaccination card upon arrival, otherwise you will likely be vaccinated at the airport.

• Is malaria a concern?

Tanzania does have malaria and we strongly recommend guests take appropriate prophylaxis, which can be prescribed by a local travel doctor.

• Where does drinking water come from?

Guests will always have access to ample amounts of treated bottled water.

• Is the food safe to eat?

Yes. We work with lodges that we know intimately, and have reviewed not only for comfort but also for their quality of food. Partnering lodges will serve delicious balanced meals prepared by expert chefs using fresh and safe ingredients.

• I have special dietary needs – will I be accommodated?

Definitely – but please make us aware of any dietary needs as far in advance as possible so that we can work with you and our partnering lodges to develop a tour that accommodates your needs.

Reviews

How to book a safari with us:

You can Email us on: info@aventurasafaris.com, or contact us via phone on: +255 (0)762 493 434 | +44 (0) 800 7561 114 or reach us via our website enquiry form. Giving us as much detail and information as possible about what you are looking for and any extra add-ons you might require.

Let us know the following:

• The month you are interested experiencing the dream come true
• The length of time you will want to enjoy your safari
• Number of people who will share this life experience with you
• Style of lodging you would like to use during your trip – you just mention what and we will arrange it for you
• Extra activities besides wildlife viewing. For example: go up in a balloon, take a walk in the bush, a canoe ride, or night game drives
• Any special requests you have for your wildlife safari

Create you safari plan, then book:

Together we will create your safari as you want it to be. The safari plan will accommodate your interests
and time schedule. We enjoy talking to you about your trip, so please provide us with your phone number.

Once you have agreed to our safari proposal:

By signing our invoice sent to you and accepting the terms and conditions of Aventura Safaris Ltd.

Get your travel dates fixed:

This will give us chance to start checking the availability of the accommodations of your choice. Traveling from/to the Americas and Asia takes about 2 days; from most of Europe, one day.

Confirm your Safari with us:

We will start booking the lodges and camps of choice for your safari. Once we have all the lodges confirmed then you can pay the deposit.

Place a deposit with us:

Once we have confirmed the lodges and activities of your choice, a deposit of 30% is required. The deposit can be made by wire transfer to our bank, by certified check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or PayPal. Your other payments will be specified in the safari plan we will send you – generally at 90 and 45 days before the start of your safari.

Once we have a confirmed itinerary for you and us to work from, you should make your international travel reservations. We also strongly recommend that you obtain adequate travel insurance to protect you against any unforeseen problems.

Following the receipt of your deposit, we will send you a package containing: your confirmed itinerary, acknowledgement of your deposit, and information about safaris and how to prepare for your adventure. We will also provide contact telephone numbers for you to leave with family or friends to use should they need to reach you while on safari.