6 Day Marangu Route

The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular paths to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for being the only route that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations. 

Key Notes:

• • The Marangu Route is considered less challenging than other routes but still requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization.

  • The 6-day itinerary includes an acclimatization day, which increases your chances of reaching the summit.

  • Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially during the summit night.

Kilimanjaro Climbing – Marangu Route Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel in Moshi for an orientation and gear check.
  • Meet your guide and team for a pre-climb briefing.
  • Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

• • Elevation: 1,860m (6,100ft) to 2,700m (8,858ft)
  • Distance: 8km (5 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration.
  • Begin your trek through the lush rainforest to Mandara Hut.
  • Overnight at Mandara Hut.

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

• • Elevation: 2,700m (8,858ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
  • Distance: 12km (7.5 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Trek through the rainforest into the moorland zone.
  • Enjoy views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding landscape.
  • Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

• • Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude.
  • Optional hike to Zebra Rocks or Mawenzi Ridge for stunning views.
  • Rest and hydrate to prepare for the higher ascent.
  • Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

• • Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft)
  • Distance: 10km (6 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Trek across the barren alpine desert to Kibo Hut.
  • Rest and prepare for the summit attempt.
  • Overnight at Kibo Hut.

Day 6: Summit Day (Uhuru Peak) to Horombo Hut

• • Elevation: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) and back to 3,720m (12,205ft)
  • Distance: 22km (14 miles)
  • Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
  • Habitat: Arctic
  • Begin the summit attempt around midnight.
  • Reach Gilman’s Point (5,681m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
  • Descend to Horombo Hut for rest.
  • Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

• • Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,860m (6,100ft)

  • Distance: 20km (12 miles)

  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

  • Habitat: Rainforest

  • Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate.

  • Receive your summit certificate (for those who reached Uhuru Peak or Gilman’s Point).

  • Transfer back to Moshi for celebration and rest.

  • Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8: Departure

• • Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.

Includes

• • 3 meals a day
  • 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi, breakfast included
  • Airport Pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport
  • All Ground Transfers
  • Accommodation while trekking
  • National Park Entry Fees
  • Fully-licensed, English-speaking guide
  • Porter service on the trek
  • First aid kit
  • Trip completion certificate
  • Farewell Dinner