6 Days Kilimanjaro Trek – Marangu Route
Trip Highlights
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is Kilimanjaro’s most established trail, famous for its comfortable hut accommodations instead of camping. This 6-day trek includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, greatly increasing your chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Trek through lush rainforests, open moorlands, and alpine deserts, before standing triumphantly on the Roof of Africa. With expert guides, scenic landscapes, and cozy huts, this route is ideal for first-time climbers, those seeking a slightly less rugged adventure, and anyone who enjoys comfort combined with breathtaking mountain scenery.
Day-by-Day
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1
Moshi/Arusha – Marangu Gate (1,843m) – Mandara Hut (2,700m)
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred from Moshi or Arusha to Marangu Gate for registration and a briefing on the trek ahead. Begin your journey through lush rainforest, keeping an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and other wildlife along the trail.
The hike gradually ascends, offering refreshing views of surrounding valleys and distant peaks, before reaching Mandara Hut, where you’ll enjoy your first night on the mountain surrounded by the serene forest environment. This gentle introduction to Kilimanjaro sets the tone for the adventure to come.
Accommodation | Mandara Hut (Dormitory-style)
- Hiking distance: ~8 km / 5 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2
Day 2
Mandara Hut (2,700m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Hike through open moorland with scenic vistas of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks on the horizon. As the vegetation thins and the terrain opens up, you’ll experience the stunning contrast between rainforest and alpine landscapes.
Arrive at Horombo Hut, a comfortable base for acclimatization, and enjoy the spectacular mountain views while resting for the next day’s optional hike or summit preparations. This section of the trek gives trekkers a real sense of climbing Africa’s highest peak.
Accommodation | Horombo Hut (Dormitory-style)
- Hiking distance: 12 km / 6–8 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 3
Day 3
Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Today is dedicated to acclimatization, helping your body adjust to the higher altitude and increasing your summit success rate. Take an optional hike towards Mawenzi Ridge, where panoramic views of rugged peaks, volcanic craters, and alpine desert landscapes await.
Return to Horombo Hut for lunch and relaxation, enjoying the calm of the mountain and interacting with fellow trekkers. This day allows you to rest, hydrate, and prepare mentally and physically for the challenging summit day ahead.
Accommodation | Mawenzi Tarn Camp (Tented)
- Hiking distance: 5 km / 2–3 hours (optional hike)
- Habitat: Moorland & Alpine Desert
Day 4
Day 4
Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Trek across the stark and lunar-like alpine desert, leaving the moorlands behind as you approach Kibo Peak. Along the way, pass the “Last Water Point” and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
Arrive at Kibo Hut, the base for your final summit attempt, and spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and mentally preparing for the early-morning ascent to the Roof of Africa. The evening provides time to savor the mountain’s quiet beauty and reflect on the adventure so far.
Accommodation | Kibo Hut (Dormitory-style)
- Hiking distance: 9 km / 6–8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5
Day 5
Kibo Hut (4,703m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Around midnight, start the final ascent with headlamps illuminating the steep trail. Climb through the arctic zone, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681m), and continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you can watch a breathtaking sunrise over the continent.
After celebrating your achievement and taking photos, descend to Kibo Hut for a short break before continuing to Horombo Hut. This long, challenging day is rewarded with the unparalleled sense of accomplishment and spectacular mountain views.
Accommodation | Horombo Hut (Dormitory-style)
- Hiking distance: 16 km / 10–14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic Zone, Alpine Desert, Moorland
Day 6
Day 6
Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Marangu Gate (1,843m) – Moshi/Arusha
Descend through moors and lush rainforest, witnessing the dramatic shift in landscapes from alpine desert to tropical forest. Celebrate your achievement at Marangu Gate with a summit certificate, commemorating your successful climb of Kilimanjaro.
Return to Moshi or Arusha in a comfortable transfer, reflecting on the incredible journey, the friendships formed, and the memories of Africa’s highest peak.
Hiking distance: ~20 km / 5–7 hours | Habitat: Moorland & Rainforest | Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha (optional)
Prices Per Person Sharing
| 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax |
|---|---|---|
|
$1,570 |
$1,550 |
$1,510 |
Price Includes
- Transfers from Moshi or Arusha to Marangu Gate and back
- Professional mountain guides and porters
- All park fees, hut accommodations, and government taxes
- Three meals per day on the mountain
- Summit certificate
- Sleeping bags and basic gear provided
Price Excludes
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Personal hiking gear and clothing
- Tips for guides and porters
- Hotel accommodation in Moshi/Arusha (can be arranged)
- Drinks, snacks, or personal expenses
Enquire This Tour
Enquire This Tour
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