6 Days Trekking via Marangu Route

Route Overview

The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most popular and easiest route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route with hut accommodations, making it a great option for those seeking a more comfortable trek. The Marangu Route is ideal for trekkers who prefer a straightforward ascent with the convenience of sleeping indoors. Despite its reputation for being easier, proper acclimatization is key to ensuring a successful summit.

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut

After an early breakfast and a briefing, you'll drive from Arusha to the Marangu Gate (1,870m). Once at the gate, you'll complete registration formalities before starting your trek through the lush rainforest to Mandara Hut. Along the way, you may spot wildlife like blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. Upon arrival at Mandara Hut (2,720m), relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Optional hike to Maundi Crater for a panoramic view of Northern Tanzania.

Elevation: 1,870m to 2,720m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Overnight: Mandara Hut

Meals: Lunch & Dinner included

Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

After breakfast, you will leave the rainforest behind and enter the heather and moorland zone. The trek to Horombo Hut is moderate but scenic, with beautiful views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll start to feel the effects of the altitude, so take it slow to allow for proper acclimatization.

Elevation: 2,720m to 3,720m
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Heathland

Overnight: Horombo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

This day is dedicated to acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching the summit. You can rest or take a short hike to Zebra Rocks (4,000m) for better acclimatization. This will help you adjust to the altitude and prepare for the next leg of the trek.

Elevation: 3,720m
Optional Hike: 3,720m to 4,000m
Habitat: Heathland

Overnight: Horombo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut

Today’s trek leads through a lunar-like landscape as you enter the alpine desert zone. You’ll cross the Saddle, a barren plain between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. The distance is long but the gradient is manageable. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut (4,703m) in the afternoon, where you will rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.

Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Overnight: Kibo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

You’ll wake up around midnight for a hot drink before starting the final ascent. The first stage of the trek is steep, and you’ll reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) at the crater rim just before dawn. From there, it’s a gradual climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. You’ll take photos, admire the view, and then begin the descent back to Horombo Hut, passing by Kibo Hut.

Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (Summit) then down to 3,720m
Hiking Time: 13-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic/Alpine Desert

Overnight: Horombo Hut

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Arusha

After breakfast, you'll descend through the heather and moorland zone back to Mandara Hut and continue down through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you'll receive your certificates for successfully summiting Kilimanjaro. You'll then be driven back to Arusha for a well-deserved rest or celebration.

Elevation: 3,720m to 1,870m
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included

These inclusions and exclusions provide a comprehensive overview of what’s covered and what’s not in a trekking package.