CONTACT US

Mount Kilimanjaro

6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Marangu Route

  • Overview
mt kilimanjaro
mt kilimanjaro
mt kilimanjaro
mt kilimanjaro
The Marangu Route, affectionately known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most established and comfortable path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Unlike other trails, Marangu features hut accommodations, making it a great option for trekkers seeking shelter from the elements. With its gradual slope and well-maintained path, it’s often chosen by beginner climbers, though the challenge of altitude remains real. This 6-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, significantly increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak successfully. The route begins at the lush rainforest of Marangu Gate, ascends through moorland and alpine desert zones, and culminates at the icy summit of Africa’s highest peak before descending the same way. Along the way, you’ll traverse a variety of landscapes dense forest alive with birds and colobus monkeys, expansive moorlands, and surreal high-altitude deserts. Each day presents a new view and a deeper connection with the mountain. With expert guides and proper pacing, the Marangu Route is both an iconic and rewarding Kilimanjaro adventure.
  • Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860 m) to Mandara Hut (2,700 m)
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 8 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
  • Overnight: Mandara Hut (shared dormitory)

Your journey starts at the Marangu Gate where you complete registration formalities. The hike begins through a lush rainforest, rich with wildlife like blue monkeys and colorful birds. The trail gently climbs up to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop. Along the way, enjoy shaded paths and occasional clearings offering glimpses of the towering summit above. After reaching the hut, take time to rest or explore the nearby Maundi Crater for panoramic views.

  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Distance: 12 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Moorland
  • Overnight: Horombo Hut (shared dormitory)

Departing Mandara, you enter the heather and moorland zone. The trail gradually ascends, offering views of Mawenzi Peak in the distance and possibly Kilimanjaro’s summit on a clear day. The air becomes crisper and the terrain more open as you traverse alpine meadows filled with lobelias and giant groundsels. This is a longer day, but the pace is steady, and your guides ensure ample rest and hydration breaks. Arrival at Horombo Hut is followed by a warm meal and early rest.

  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours (optional hike) 
  • Altitude: 3,720 m to 4,000 m and back
  • Overnight: Horombo Hut

Today is a crucial acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude. You’ll take a light hike toward Zebra Rocks (4,000 m), a scenic rock formation named for its black-and-white stripes. The short hike helps prepare your body for the higher elevation ahead. Afterward, return to Horombo Hut for lunch and relaxation. Use the day to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the stunning views around you, including sunsets over the cloud layers.

  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours | Distance: 10 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
  • Overnight: Kibo Hut (shared dormitory)

You now enter the high alpine desert, a stark, moon-like landscape with little vegetation. The path ascends gradually, crossing the “Saddle,” a vast plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. This stretch is dry and windy, and it’s vital to conserve energy. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest, eat an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight summit push. Final equipment checks are done before retiring early for the night.

  • Hiking Time: 12–16 hours
  • Distance: 6 km ascent, 16 km descent
  • Vegetation Zone: Arctic to Moorland
  • Overnight: Horombo Hut

Your summit day begins just after midnight. Climbing by headlamp, you ascend steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), then traverse the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. Witness the sunrise from the roof of Africa before beginning your descent. The journey down to Kibo Hut is tough on the knees, and after a brief rest, you continue to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest and celebration.

  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 20 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Moorland to Rainforest

The final day is a long descent through moorland and back into the lush rainforest. It’s a chance to reflect on your journey and spot some of the wildlife you may have missed on the way up. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate a symbol of your incredible achievement. After signing out, a vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower and well-deserved rest.
End of climb.

  • Included in this Tour
  • Transportation from/to your Hotel 
  • Park Entry Fee
  • Professional Guide
  • Airport Transfers
  • Full Board Accommodations
  • Government Applied VAT
  • Not Included in this Tour
  • Tipping & Gratitude
  • Arrival & Transit Visas
  • Medical & Travel Insurance
  • Drinks at the Hotel
  • Drones Usage
  • International Flight

ENQUIRY FORM

  • Related Tours

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Rongai Route

  • calendar-color 6 Days / 5 Nights

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp Hiking Time: 4–5 hours |

View Tour

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Rongai Route

  • calendar-color 7 Days / 6 Nights

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Nalemuru Gate (1,990m) to Simba Camp (2,625m) Hiking Time: 4–5

View Tour

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route

  • calendar-color 6 Days / 5 Nights

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp Hiking Time: 5–7 hours |

View Tour

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route

  • calendar-color 7 Days / 6 Nights

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m) Hiking Time: 3–4

View Tour

9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route

  • calendar-color 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

View Tour