6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route

OVERVIEW

The 6-day Marangu Route — affectionately known as the “Coca-Cola Route” — is the most classic and comfortable way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s the only route offering accommodation in mountain huts with solar power and shared dining areas, making it ideal for climbers who prefer added comfort. The extra day for acclimatization at Horombo Hut increases your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa, at 5,895 meters. The trail takes you through dense rainforest, open moorlands, and alpine desert before arriving at the majestic snowcapped summit. With professional guides, delicious meals, and spectacular scenery, this 6-day climb offers the perfect blend of adventure, challenge, and comfort — a timeless journey to Africa’s highest peak.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our representative meets you and transfers you to your lodge in Moshi. The day is reserved for rest and preparation. Your lead guide will meet you for a full briefing, equipment check, and introduction to the crew. Spend the evening relaxing, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and preparing for the climb ahead. Dinner and overnight in Moshi.

Accommodation Mara Mbugani Tented Camp
Meal Plan Dinner
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Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate (1,860 m) to register and meet your climbing team. The trek begins through a lush rainforest filled with birds and monkeys. The path is gradual but humid, offering a good warm-up for the climb ahead. Reach Mandara Hut after 4–5 hours and settle in for dinner and overnight. A short evening walk to Maundi Crater provides a lovely view over Kenya’s plains.

Trek time: 4–5 hours

Accommodation Mandara Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

After breakfast, leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone. The vegetation changes dramatically, with tall grasses and hardy alpine plants dotting the landscape. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut in the afternoon for dinner and rest in the cool mountain air.

Trek time: 6–7 hours

Accommodation Horombo Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Day 4: Acclimatization at Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Spend an extra day at Horombo Hut to help your body adjust to the altitude. After breakfast, take a short acclimatization hike toward Mawenzi Ridge (approximately 4,200 m) before returning to camp for lunch. The afternoon is free to relax, explore, and enjoy the views. This rest day greatly increases your summit success rate.

Trek time: 3–4 hours (short acclimatization walk)

Accommodation Horombo Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,703 m)

Continue the ascent through the alpine desert. The air thins as you cross the Saddle — a wide, arid plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut by early afternoon for an early dinner and rest. Your guides will brief you on the upcoming summit attempt.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation Kibo Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Day 6: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut

Wake around midnight to begin your summit push under a starry sky. The climb is steep and demanding, with steady progress up to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m). From here, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa. Witness the sunrise from the summit, then descend to Kibo Hut for rest and lunch before continuing to Horombo Hut for the night.

Trek time: 10–12 hours

Accommodation Horombo Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

After breakfast, descend through the moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Collect your summit certificate and say farewell to your guides and porters. Transfer back to Moshi for a hot shower, rest, and a celebration dinner.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation Moshi Hotel
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Included (typical safari)

  • Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport

  • Two nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before and after the climb)

  • Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate

  • Park entrance fees and camping fees

  • Rescue fees and government taxes

  • Professional mountain guides, assistant guides, and experienced porters

  • Full board meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • Treated drinking water throughout the climb

  • Quality mountain tents, sleeping mats, and dining equipment

  • Oxygen cylinder and first aid kit for emergencies

  • Fair wages and proper care for the mountain crew

Not included

  • International flights and travel insurance

  • Tanzania entry visa

  • Personal climbing gear such as sleeping bag, boots, and clothing

  • Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary

  • Tips for guides, porters, and cook (customary but not included)

  • Extra night at the hotel before or after the climb if needed

  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs

Book This Tour

    BOOKING PROCESS & PAYMENT

    Inquiry

    Tell us your travel dates, interests, group size and budget.

    Proposal

    We send a tailor-made itinerary and quote.

    Confirmation

    30% deposit (or as agreed) secures bookings and permits; balance due before travel.

    Final details

    We provide a detailed travel pack with meeting points, packing list and permit info.

    HEALTH, SAFETY & PRACTICALS

    vaccine

    Vaccinations

    Yellow fever certificate may be required for some routes/entries; check up-to-date requirements.

    GUARD

    Malaria

    Malaria prophylaxis recommended in many areas — consult your doctor.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance

    Strongly advised for medical, evacuation and trip cancellation.

    654090

    Kilimanjaro

    Good fitness and proper acclimatization required. We provide trained guides and support crew.

    RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL & CONSERVATION

    • We follow strict wildlife viewing distances and codes of conduct.
    • We work with trusted local suppliers and invest in community projects where possible.
    • We minimize waste, avoid single-use plastics where practical and support park conservation initiatives.

    PACKING LIST

    • Lightweight breathable clothing, warm layer for early mornings
    • Sturdy walking shoes or boots, hat, sunglasses
    • Rain jacket (seasonal), sunscreen, insect repellent
    • For Kilimanjaro: thermal layers, down jacket, gloves, headlamp, trekking poles
    • Valid passport, copies, travel insurance, necessary permits/visas

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