Overview:

The Marangu Route, affectionately known as the "Coca-Cola Route", is one of the oldest, most established, and most popular trekking routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers hut accommodations instead of tents, making it a more comfortable option for climbers who prefer solid shelter, foam mattresses, and shared facilities over camping.
Marangu is widely considered the easiest route in terms of trail gradient, thanks to its gentler slopes and direct path to the summit. However, its shorter itinerary and rapid elevation gain present a real challenge in terms of altitude acclimatization, which is why proper preparation and a good fitness level are still essential.
Over the course of 6 days, climbers travel through Kilimanjaro’s five distinct climate zones, from the rich rainforests at the base to the stark, icy summit zone at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft) — the highest point in Africa.

Details:

Key Details of the Marangu Route:
• Duration: 6 Days
• Distance: Approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles)
• Starting Elevation: 6,046 ft (1,843 m)
• Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (5,895 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Hut Lodges
• Best Time to Climb: June to October and December to March

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: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
• Elevation: 6,046 ft (1,843 m) to 8,858 ft (2,700 m)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest
Your trek begins with a drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for registration. The hike starts through a dense rainforest with chances to spot colobus monkeys. You’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, where you’ll spend your first night in shared hut accommodations.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
• Elevation: 8,858 ft (2,700 m) to 12,205 ft (3,720 m)
• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
After breakfast, you’ll leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. The trail offers beautiful views and fascinating flora, including giant lobelias and groundsels. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, where you’ll rest and acclimatize.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Zebra Rocks and Return to Horombo Hut (Acclimatization Day)
• Elevation: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) to 13,123 ft (4,000 m) and back
• Distance: 5 km (3 miles) round trip
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
This is an acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude. You’ll take a short hike to Zebra Rocks, named for their distinctive black and white striped appearance, before returning to Horombo Hut for another night.

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
• Elevation: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) to 15,430 ft (4,703 m)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
The trail to Kibo Hut passes through the Saddle, a barren stretch of alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The air becomes thinner as you gain altitude, and you’ll arrive at Kibo Hut by late afternoon. You’ll rest, prepare for the summit attempt, and have an early dinner before heading to bed.

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
• Elevation: 15,430 ft (4,703 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) and back to 12,205 ft (3,720 m)
• Distance: 22 km (14 miles)
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
• Habitat: Arctic, then Moorland
You’ll begin your summit attempt around midnight, climbing steeply towards Gilman’s Point (18,652 ft/5,685 m) along the crater rim. From there, it’s another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
• Elevation: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) to 6,046 ft (1,843 m)
• Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland, then Rain Forest
On your final day, you’ll descend through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you’ll collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and celebrate your climb.

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