6 Days Marangu Route

Mount Kilimanjaro - A true trekking and mountaineering paradise

Trekking Overview

6 Days Marangu Route is the most popular, least difficult and the shortest way to Uhuru Peak. This 6 Days Marangu Route is also called the Tourist Route or the Coca Cola Route. 70% of all climbers choose this route, because most of the route consists of easy hiking. This route is fairly easy but the final part to the summit is still difficult. Although this rout is the easiest, it has the highest failure rate due to bad preparation. It is advised to take this route seriously enough, to be well organized and to take all possible safety measures.

Known as the ‘Coca Cola Route’ because of its popularity and its relative ease, the Marangu route is the most popular route by which to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit.

For those who are pressed for time, the five-day option is a rushed, but achievable way to conquer the Roof of Africa

Kilimanjaro

Marangu Route Map

Itinerary

DAY 1: MARANGU GATE – MANDARA HUTS:

Elevation: 1905m/6250ft to 2723m/8934ft
Altitude gained: 818m

Leaving from Arusha, a scenic two-hours drive will transport you through the Village of Marangu to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Upon arrival, we will patiently await the issuance of our permits, observing the lively activity as numerous crews prepare for their upcoming journeys. Amidst the stunning rainforest scenery and winding trails, your guide will provide insights into the local flora, fauna, and wildlife. It's important to note that at these lower elevations, the trail may become muddy and slippery, so we strongly advise the use of gaiters and trekking poles for added stability and safety.

DAY 2: MANDARA HUTS – HOROMBO HUTS:

Elevation: 2723m/8934ft to 3721m/12,208ft
Altitude gained: 998m

Following a restful night's sleep and a satisfying breakfast, we depart from the rainforest and proceed along an ascending path, transitioning through heathland in search of towering lobelias and groundsels. As we ascend further, we enter open moorlands characterized by small shrubs as the predominant vegetation. We pause midway through the journey for lunch, offering a chance to relish the breathtaking views of Mawenzi. By late afternoon, we arrive at the Horombo Huts nestled beneath the awe-inspiring viewpoint of Kibo Summit. As the day progresses, temperatures begin to decline.

DAY 3 – HOROMBO HUT

You have the option to extend your stay at Horombo for a full day and an additional night. During this time, you can opt to either relax at the huts or embark on a leisurely stroll up to the Mawenzi base camp before returning to Horombo. This extra day is beneficial for acclimatization and enhances your familiarity with the mountain's weather and altitude. Following this pause, you'll proceed to the Kibo Huts on your fourth day in preparation for your midnight start towards the summit.

DAY 4: HOROMBO HUTS- KIBO HUTS:

Elevation: 3721m/12,208ft to 4714m/15,466ft
Altitude gained: 993m

Following breakfast, our journey progresses through the diminishing heathland, gradually transitioning into a lunar-like landscape as we enter the expansive saddle linking Mawenzi and Kibo. As we pause for lunch, and later traverse this unexpectedly vast saddle, you'll have the opportunity to observe the summit ascent route up Kibo, which you'll embark on in just a few hours.

DAY 5: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT:

Elevation: 4714m/15,466ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1181m
Descent to 3721m/12,208ft
Altitude lost: 2174m

As the morning approaches, excitement builds with an early departure between midnight and 2 a.m., marking the most mentally and physically demanding phase of the trek. Continuing our ascent towards the summit in a zigzag pattern, we strive to stay warm and focused, anticipating the remarkable sense of achievement ahead.

Progressing through a series of switchbacks, we ascend through challenging scree and possibly encounter snow en route to Gillman’s Point on the crater rim, where a breathtaking sunrise awaits during a brief rest. Swifter hikers may even catch the sunrise from the summit itself. The final hour's ascent to Uhuru Peak is likely to involve continuous snow cover.

Congratulations, step by step, you have now reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire African continent! Following moments of photography, celebrations, and perhaps some tears of joy, we take a brief pause to savor this incredible accomplishment. The journey continues with a steep descent to Horombo Hut.

DAY 6: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – ARUSHA:

Elevation: 3721m/12,208 to 1905m/6250ft
Altitude lost: 1816m

Following breakfast and a sincere ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to bid farewell. We resume our descent, pausing at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to express gratitude to your guides, cooks, and porters, as you will be parting ways with them here.

Upon reaching the Marangu Park Gate, you will receive your summit certificates. Given the significantly warmer weather, the terrain becomes wet, muddy, and steep, so we highly recommend wearing gaiters and using trekking poles for added stability. A vehicle will be waiting at the gate to transport you back to your hotel in Arusha.
What is Included
  • Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
  • Professional, English-speaking
  • Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
  • Airport Transfers
  • Meals according to the itinerary
  • Drinking water and Full Board Meals
  • All National Park & Hut Fees or Camping fee
  • Gate Transfers
What is Not Included
  • International flights
  • Airport taxes
  • All meals and drinks not specified
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature

Looking for a little more trekking choice? A little more luxury?