The Marangu route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the most popular and frequently chosen path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route on the mountain that offers overnight stays in huts, which makes it a great option for those trekking during the rainy season.

This well-established trail takes you through all of Kilimanjaro’s climate zones, ranging from tropical rainforests to the ice-capped summit offering a scenic view of Africa’s diverse landscapes.

While the Marangu route is the least expensive and most popular option, it can get crowded during peak seasons (July-September and December-March). For better acclimatization, a 6-day itinerary is strongly recommended over the 5-day option.

Arrive in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, your experienced guide will brief you on the trek and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear. You will spend the night at your hotel before beginning your trek.

Day 1 – Marangu Gate (1860m) to Mandara Hut (2700m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel at around 8:00 AM and driven to Marangu Gate. After completing registration formalities, you’ll begin the 5-hour trek to Mandara Hut at an altitude of 2,700m. As you hike through the lush rainforest, keep an eye out for wildlife such as blue monkeys and Colobus monkeys.

Day 2 – Mandara Hut (2700m) to Horombo Hut (3720m)

Distance covered: 12 km
Approximate time taken: 8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your trek to Horombo Hut, located at 3,720m. This 4-6 hour hike will take you through the moorland zone, offering panoramic views of Mount Kibo and Mawenzi. The trail will get progressively steeper, but the spectacular views make the effort worthwhile.

Day 3 – Horombo Hut (3720m) to Kibo Hut (4700m)

Distance covered: 9 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, you’ll begin a beautiful day’s trek through the alpine desert zone. The first part of the hike will take you across the moonscape-like saddle connecting Mawenzi and Kibo. After a lunch break and crossing the large saddle, you’ll be able to see Kibo Summit, the final stretch of your journey. This is a long day, but after an early dinner, you’ll rest up for the summit attempt later.

Day 4 – Kibo Hut (4700m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) and down to Horombo Hut (3720m)

Distance covered: 21 km
Approximate time taken: 13 hours
Habitat: Glacier / Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

This is the day you’ve been preparing for. You’ll wake up at 1:00 AM and begin the trek to the summit. The first leg takes about 4-5 hours to reach Gilman’s Point (5681m) on the crater rim, where you’ll witness the first rays of the sun warming the land. From there, it’s an additional 1.5-hour hike to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Spend some time celebrating your achievement and capturing the breathtaking sunrise. Afterward, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a hot lunch and a short rest, before continuing down to Horombo Hut for your final overnight on Kilimanjaro.

Day 5 – Horombo Hut (3720m) to Marangu Gate (1860m)

Distance covered: 21 km
Approximate time taken: 13 hours
Habitat: Moorland / Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

After breakfast, it’s time for the final descent. You’ll pass through the moors and rainforest as you head down to the Mandara Hut, where you’ll enjoy a hot lunch. From there, continue your descent to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your climbing certificate. Once park formalities are completed, a vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved warm shower and celebration.

Then – Depart Tanzania / Other Destinations in Tanzania

Later in the evening or the following day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight. If desired, We can arrange a cultural tour or a safari to one of Tanzania’s top wildlife parks, such as Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.

End of the Trip