6 Days Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro Climbing
Kilimanjaro Mountain
- 6 Days
- Tanzania
- Private
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Trip Overview
6 Days Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, famously known as the “Coca-Cola Route” because soft drinks are available at each hut, is the only Kilimanjaro route that offers overnight stays in mountain huts. This unique feature makes it more comfortable and affordable compared to camping routes, as it requires fewer crew members and less equipment.
As the oldest and one of the most established routes on Kilimanjaro, Marangu offers scenic beauty and a more sheltered trek, making it especially favorable during the rainy season. It is also the most budget-friendly option for those who wish to climb Kilimanjaro without compromising safety and experience.
The Marangu Route can be completed as either a 5-day/4-night or a 6-day/5-night climb. The 6-day itinerary is highly recommended, as it includes an extra acclimatization day, significantly increasing the summit success rate. Experienced trekkers accustomed to high altitudes may opt for the more challenging 5-day version, but for most climbers, the 6-day climb provides a safer and more enjoyable journey.
Unlike other routes, the Marangu offers hut accommodations instead of tents. Each hut features communal dining areas, shared washrooms, and simple toilets—flush toilets are available at lower elevations, while long-drop latrines are used at higher camps. Accommodation is in shared dormitory-style huts, which some climbers prefer for comfort and convenience over camping.
For those seeking a more affordable, structured, and less equipment-heavy climb, the 6 Days Marangu Route remains one of the most accessible and popular ways to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Huts
Distance: 8.3 km / 5 miles | Hiking time: 4–5 hours | Zone: Rainforest
Elevation: 1,905m / 6,250ft → 2,723m / 8,934ft
Altitude gained: 818m
After breakfast in Moshi, enjoy a scenic 1 hour drive through the Marangu village to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. While permits are being processed, you’ll witness the lively atmosphere as climbing crews prepare for their journeys. The trek begins through lush rainforest, following winding trails where your guide will point out unique flora, fauna, and wildlife. Expect a muddy, slippery trail—trekking poles and gaiters are highly recommended. Overnight at Mandara Huts.
Day 2: Mandara Huts – Horombo Huts
Distance: 12.5 km / 7.8 miles | Hiking time: 6–8 hours | Zone: Moorland
Elevation: 2,723m / 8,934ft → 3,721m / 12,208ft
Altitude gained: 998m
After a restful night, the trail leaves the rainforest and climbs steadily through heathland, where giant lobelias and groundsels are common. Lunch is enjoyed en route with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Horombo Huts, located beneath the dramatic Kibo Summit. Temperatures here begin to drop significantly.
Day 3: Acclimatization at Horombo Huts
Today is reserved for rest and acclimatization. You may relax at Horombo Huts or take an optional acclimatization hike to Mawenzi Base Camp before returning. This extra day helps your body adapt to altitude, significantly increasing your chances of summit success.
Day 4: Horombo Huts – Kibo Huts
Distance: 10.5 km / 6 miles | Hiking time: 6–8 hours | Zone: Semi-desert
Elevation: 3,721m / 12,208ft → 4,714m / 15,466ft
Altitude gained: 993m
The trail gradually transitions from heathland into a barren semi-desert moonscape, crossing the vast Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Lunch is taken en route, and the day ends at Kibo Huts, where you’ll rest before the midnight summit push.
Day 5: Kibo Huts – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Huts
Ascent: 6.25 km / 3.9 miles | 5–7 hours | Zone: Glaciers & Summit
Descent: 15.75 km / 9 miles | 5–6 hours
Elevation: 4,714m / 15,466ft → 5,895m / 19,341ft (Uhuru Peak)
Descent to: 3,721m / 12,208ft
Altitude gained: 1,181m | Altitude lost: 2,174m
Summit day begins between midnight and 2:00 a.m.—the most challenging part of the climb. In slow, steady switchbacks, you ascend over scree and snowfields toward Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, where a breathtaking sunrise awaits. From there, it’s about an hour’s climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement with photos and a moment of reflection before descending to Horombo Huts for overnight rest. Trekking poles and gaiters are essential on the steep descent.
Day 6: Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Moshi
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles | Hiking time: 6–7 hours | Zone: Rainforest
Elevation: 3,721m / 12,208ft → 1,905m / 6,250ft
Altitude lost: 1,816m
After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to your mountain crew with a celebration and tipping ceremony. The descent continues through the rainforest, with a stop at Mandara Huts for lunch. At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before a short drive back to Moshi. Enjoy a hot shower, dinner, and a well-earned rest at your hotel.
- All airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Arusha/Moshi (before & after climb)
- Park entry fees, camping/hut fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, certified mountain guides, cooks, and porters
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Drinking water (treated & safe for climbing)
- Accommodation in mountain huts/tents during the climb
- Kilimanjaro trekking permits and government taxes
- Emergency oxygen cylinder and first aid kit
- Fair and ethical treatment of porters (following KPAP guidelines)
International flights to/from Tanzania
Tanzanian entry visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory, must cover high-altitude trekking)
Personal climbing gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, boots, clothing, etc.)
Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (customary in Tanzania)
Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, snacks, souvenirs)
Additional accommodation and meals not specified in the itinerary
Optional excursions or activities before/after the climb
Price
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