Overview:

The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is one of the most popular routes up Mount Kilimanjaro due to its ease of access and well-established infrastructure. Over the course of 5 days, trekkers experience varying ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and the moonscape near the summit. It is considered one of the shorter routes for summiting Kilimanjaro but still requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization. The route is ideal for those who want a direct and scenic route with comfortable huts for overnight stays, making it suitable for a variety of climbers.

Details:

• Duration: 5 days, 4 nights on the mountain
• Starting Elevation:1860m/6100ft (Marangu Gate) - Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging - Best Season: January to March and June to October

ITINERARY :

Arrival Day
On arrival in Moshi, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, we will conduct a detailed orientation and gear check to ensure you are well-prepared for the climb. You’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary, safety protocols, and answer any questions. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and rest for the adventure ahead.

Day 1: Hotel to Mandara Hut
Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast and a briefing, you’ll drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1 hour), register, and start the climb. The first section takes you through the rainforest to the Mandara Hut. On the way, you’ll have the chance to take a side trip to Maundi Crater, which offers great views of northern Tanzania and Kenya. The rainforest is home to towering Eucalyptus trees, diverse bird life, and Colobus monkeys.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends onto the open moorlands, offering incredible views of Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Summit. As you continue, you’ll pass giant lobelias and groundsel plants. At this altitude, you may begin to feel the effects of the higher elevation.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
The path now leads you onto the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi, with the terrain becoming more desolate, resembling a moonscape. Vegetation begins to fade as you ascend. This is your last stop before your summit push the next day.

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft (Summit) to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 6-8 hours down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
You’ll start your summit attempt in the early hours of the morning (midnight to 2 am). The route is steep, with scree or snow as you make your way to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. From here, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The views are breathtaking, and you'll have time to take photos at the summit. Afterward, descend to Kibo Hut for a rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Moshi
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
The descent begins with a steady walk through moorland, then continuing through lush forest paths to the Marangu Gate at the bottom. The lower elevations may be wet and muddy, so wearing gaiters and trekking poles is helpful. Once you reach the gate, a vehicle will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour).

PRICE (USD)

PRICE INCLUDES

- Dedicated Customer Satisfaction Associate: Personalized assistance throughout your climb, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

- Airport Pickup and Drop-off: Convenient transport to and from the airport at the start and end of your journey.

- Hotel Accommodation: One night before and one night after the climb in a comfortable hotel.

- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during, the climb, including water on the mountain.

- Park Fees and Taxes: All applicable national park entry fees and taxes are covered.

- Transportation: Transfers between the hotel and the trailhead for the start and end of your climb.

- Camping Equipment: High-quality, 3-person mountaineering tents, sleeping mats, and a private toilet tent for your comfort.

- Support Team: A professional team of certified guides, porters, and cooks to assist and support you throughout the trek.

- Kilimanjaro SAR Evacuation Insurance: Comprehensive search and rescue evacuation coverage for peace of mind during your climb.

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Airfare to and from Tanzania
• Personal travel insurance
• Visa
• Tips for the support team
• Sleeping bags and other personal gear
• Rental gear
• Lunch and dinner at the hotel
• Drinks and snacks