6 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
6 Days
Tour Starts & Ends: Arusha/kilimanjaro International Airport
Combination with e.g. Safari possible!
TRIP OVERVIEW
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only path on Mount Kilimanjaro that offers hut accommodations, making it a popular and comfortable option for climbers. This six-day trek provides a gradual ascent, allowing for better acclimatization while passing through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and the breathtaking snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The route follows the same path up and down, offering a well-maintained trail with stunning scenery. This itinerary includes an arrival day in Moshi, providing time for final preparations before embarking on the trek.
Our Tanzania Iternary
Day 0: Arrival in Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, you’ll meet your guide for a detailed trek briefing, gear check, and safety instructions. If time allows, you can explore Moshi town, visit local markets, or relax at the hotel. The evening will be spent preparing for the adventure ahead. A good night’s rest is essential before starting the climb. Overnight at a comfortable lodge in Moshi, with dinner provided.
Accomodation:
Luxury Or Midrange Hotel
- Arusha Accommodation Options
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Arusha Legendary Lodge
Day 1: Moshi – Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut
After breakfast, a drive takes you to Marangu Gate for registration and the start of your trek. The journey begins with a gradual ascent through the lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. The well-defined trail leads to Mandara Hut (2,720m), where you’ll rest for the night. A short side trek to Maundi Crater offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape. Dinner is served at Mandara Hut, where you’ll sleep in dormitory-style accommodations.
Highlights
Elevation: 1,870m to 2,720m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Accomodation: Mandara Hut
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail opens up to moorland filled with giant lobelias and everlasting flowers. As you ascend, the air becomes cooler, and the views become more expansive. The hike continues through rolling hills with occasional sightings of Mount Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest peak. Arriving at Horombo Hut (3,720m), you’ll settle into your accommodation and enjoy a hot meal. The evening is spent resting and acclimatizing in preparation for the higher altitude.
Highlights
Elevation: 2,720m to 3,720m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Accomodation: Horombo Hut
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
To improve your chances of reaching the summit, today is dedicated to acclimatization. A short hike to Zebra Rocks (4,020m) helps your body adjust to the altitude while offering incredible views. This is a crucial day for climbers, as proper acclimatization reduces the risk of altitude sickness. After exploring the area, you’ll return to Horombo Hut for relaxation, meals, and an early bedtime. This extra day significantly increases your success rate for summiting.
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut
The terrain changes dramatically as you enter the alpine desert zone. The trail becomes steeper as you approach the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The dry, rocky landscape offers stunning views of the looming summit. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut (4,703m) in the afternoon, where you’ll rest and have an early dinner. The night is short, as summit preparations begin at midnight. Hydration and rest are essential for the upcoming push to Uhuru Peak.
Highlights
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Accomodation: Kibo Hut
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
The final ascent begins at midnight under the starlit sky. The steep climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is the most challenging part of the trek. After a short rest, the trek continues along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Witness the breathtaking sunrise and take celebratory photos before descending. The descent to Kibo Hut allows for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut, where a well-earned meal and sleep await.
Highlights
Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (Summit), then back to 3,720m
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Accomodation: Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi
The final descent takes you back through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your summit certificates before being transferred back to Moshi for a celebratory meal and a relaxing night at your hotel.
Highlights
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,870m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Accomodation: Luxury Or Midrange Hotel at Moshi/Arusha
