Overview

The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and most established path up Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers hut accommodation instead of tents, making it popular among trekkers who prefer more comfort on the mountain. Dormitory-style huts provide mattresses and pillows, with communal dining halls and basic washrooms available.

Marangu is considered the easiest route in terms of trail gradient, with a gradual and direct ascent. However, the short duration provides limited time for acclimatisation, which can affect summit success rates. This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast, following the same trail for both ascent and descent.

This itinerary combines the 6-day Marangu trek with 2 nights in a comfortable hotel in Moshi, ensuring a smooth start and finish to your adventure.

Day 01 :

Arrival – Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi (42 km, 55 minutes)

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Relax, explore the town if you wish, and attend a pre-climb briefing with your guide in the evening.
Meals: Dinner

Day 02 :

Moshi – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

Transfer to Marangu Gate for registration and begin trekking through lush rainforest. Spot black-and-white colobus monkeys before arriving at Mandara Hut. Optional walk to Maundi Crater for stunning views of Kenya.
Distance: 8 km | 3–4 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03 :

Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)

Ascend through heathland and moorland with views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The trail offers sweeping panoramas of the Maasai Steppe below. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Distance: 12 km | 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04 :

Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

A long, steady climb through alpine desert. Cross the “Saddle,” the high-altitude plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo. Overnight at Kibo Hut, with an early rest before summit night.
Distance: 10 km | 5–6 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05 :

Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)

Begin your summit attempt at midnight. Climb slowly past Hans Meyer Cave to Gilman’s Point (5,715 m) as dawn breaks, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut.
Distance: 19 km | 12–14 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert / Arctic Zone
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 06 :

Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Moshi

Descend through moorland and rainforest, with a stop at Mandara Hut for lunch. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, bid farewell to your trekking crew and transfer to Moshi for a hot shower and well-earned rest.
Distance: 20 km | 6–7 hours | Habitat: Moorland / Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07 :

Moshi – Kilimanjaro Airport

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Alternatively, extend your trip with a safari, cultural excursion, or a beach holiday in Zanzibar, Mafia, or Fanjove.
Meals: Breakfast