Overview (Highlight)
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and most established trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its comfortable hut accommodations, gradual slopes, and scenic variety, it is one of the most accessible routes for trekkers aiming to conquer Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Over six days, you will journey through lush rainforests, sweeping moorlands, striking alpine deserts, and finally the snow-capped summit zone. Professional guides, well-structured acclimatization, and steady ascent profiles make this route ideal for climbers seeking a supported, classic Kilimanjaro experience.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania – Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi, where you will meet your mountain guide for a full trek briefing and gear check. Any missing climbing equipment can be rented at this time. This evening is dedicated to rest and preparation.
Accommodation Options:
- Chanya Lodge
- Bristol Inn
- Babylon Lodge
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,800m) → Mandara Hut (2,700m)
After breakfast, you will be driven to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate for registration and final preparations. Begin trekking through the beautiful montane rainforest, home to birds, primates, and lush vegetation. The cleared ridge trail leads you to Mandara Hut, a wooden A-frame camp nestled in a forest clearing. Settle in and enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Accommodation Options:
- Mandara Hut
Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,700m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Today’s trek takes you from rainforest into open moorland landscapes with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. The trail passes the base of the Maundi Crater—an excellent viewpoint for panoramic photo opportunities. By early afternoon, arrive at Horombo Hut, your base for the next two nights. 5
Accommodation Options:
- Horombo Hut
Day 3: Acclimatization Day – Horombo Hut (Optional hike to Mawenzi Hut 4,600m)
This day is dedicated to acclimatization, essential for increasing your summit success. You may take an optional hike to Mawenzi Hut (4,600m), offering dramatic views of Mawenzi Peak and the saddle area. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon back at Horombo Hut, where meals and rest support your adaptation to altitude.
Accommodation Options:
- Horombo Hut
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Leaving Horombo, trek through the stark and beautiful alpine desert, following a gradual incline across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Reach Kibo Hut, your base for the summit. Have an early dinner and prepare your gear for the midnight ascent before resting for a few hours.
Accommodation Options:
- Kibo Hut
Day 5: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Your summit push begins around midnight. Ascend a steep trail of volcanic scree toward Hans Meyer Point (5,250m) and continue zigzagging up to Gillman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. From here, follow the snowy ridge to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebration, descend to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing downhill to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain. 8
Accommodation Options:
- Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate (1,980m) → Moshi
Today you make your final descent through moorland and lush rainforest until reaching Marangu Gate. After receiving your official Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi to relax and celebrate your achievement.
Accommodation Options:
- Chanya Lodge
- Bristol Inn
- Babylon Lodge
Day 7: Departure
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or continue your adventure with a Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach holiday.
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
Included in the Package:
- Private airport transfers
- Two nights’ accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
- Transportation to/from Marangu Gate
- Kilimanjaro National Park & camping fees
- Kilimanjaro rescue fees
- Professional guides, cooks & porters
- All meals on the mountain (3 per day)
- Treated & filtered drinking water
- Emergency oxygen & first-aid kit
- Government taxes
Excluded from the Package:
- Meals & drinks at the hotel
- International flights & travel insurance
- Personal climbing gear & toiletries
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters
Optional Add-Ons:
- Maasai Village cultural tour
- Materuni Waterfall hike & coffee tour
