Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Hike
8 days—Experience the classic Marangu Route with comfortable hut accommodations, scenic trails, and a rewarding summit at Uhuru Peak.
$1920-2450 USD
pp
Safari summary
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most popular and established path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), Africa’s highest peak. Unlike other routes, Marangu offers hut accommodations, providing extra comfort for trekkers who prefer not to camp. This 6-day itinerary includes an additional acclimatization day, giving climbers a higher chance of reaching the summit safely and successfully.
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport and a transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. After a pre-climb briefing with your experienced mountain guide, you’ll be well-prepared for the journey ahead. Over the next several days, the trail takes you through Kilimanjaro’s five unique climate zones — from lush rainforest alive with monkeys and tropical birds, to rolling moorlands dotted with giant heathers, through the stark alpine desert, and finally to the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak.
Highlights of the climb include the peaceful Mandara Hut surrounded by forest, the stunning views of Mawenzi peak from Horombo Hut, and the challenging yet rewarding midnight summit push from Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak. Standing on the Roof of Africa at sunrise, with sweeping views of glaciers and endless landscapes below, is a life-changing moment you’ll never forget.
This trek is fully supported by professional guides, porters, and cooks, ensuring your safety and comfort every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-time high-altitude trekker or an experienced adventurer, the Marangu Route provides a perfect balance of challenge, cultural discovery, and natural beauty.
About this tour
Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
Main focus | None | |
Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
Best months | All months | |
Countries | ||
Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Hot air balloons
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Laundry
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Spa treatments
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Arrival in Tanzania
Kilimanjaro
As you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will be waiting with a sign displaying your name, ready to give you a warm welcome. You’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for dinner and overnight stay. In the evening, you’ll meet your mountain guide for a detailed pre-climb briefing and equipment check.
Hotel in Moshi/Arusha
Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut
Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate (1,860m). Once registration is complete, begin your trek through lush rainforest filled with monkeys, birds, and rich vegetation. Arrive at Mandara Hut (2,700m) after 4–5 hours of hiking. Optionally, hike to Maundi Crater for panoramic views of northern Tanzania and Kenya. Hiking Distance: 8 km Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Starting Altitude: 1,860m Ending Altitude: 2,700m
Mandara Hut
Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut
Kilimanjaro
Continue trekking through heath and moorland zones, where giant lobelias and groundsels dominate the landscape. Clear views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks appear as you approach Horombo Hut (3,720m). Hiking Distance: 12 km Hiking Time: 6–7 hours Starting Altitude: 2,700m Ending Altitude: 3,720m
Horombo Hut
Acclimatization at Horombo Hut
Kilimanjaro
Spend an extra day at Horombo Hut to help your body adjust to higher altitudes. Take a hike towards Mawenzi Hut (4,300m) for great views of Mawenzi Peak, then return to Horombo for lunch and relaxation. Hiking Distance: 5 km (optional acclimatization hike) Hiking Time: 3–4 hours Starting Altitude: 3,720m Ending Altitude: up to 4,300m (then return)
Horombo Hut
Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut
Kilimanjaro
Today’s trek crosses the alpine desert, known as the saddle, between Mawenzi and Kibo. The trail is long and gradual, offering spectacular views. Arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700m) for an early dinner and rest before the midnight summit push. Hiking Distance: 10 km Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Starting Altitude: 3,720m Ending Altitude: 4,700m
Kibo Hut
Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
Kilimanjaro
Wake just before midnight and start the climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point. Hike past Gilman’s Point (5,685m) and Stella Point (5,756m) before reaching the summit at sunrise. After celebrating, descend to Kibo Hut for rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut (3,720m). Hiking Distance: 22 km (ascent + descent) Hiking Time: 11–15 hours Starting Altitude: 4,700m Highest Altitude: 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) Ending Altitude: 3,720m
Horombo Hut
: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate
Kilimanjaro
Descend through heathland and rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,870m). Successful climbers will receive a summit certificate. From here, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest. Hiking Distance: 20 km Hiking Time: 6–7 hours Starting Altitude: 3,720m Ending Altitude: 1,870m
Hotel in Moshi/Arusha
Departure
Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey or flight back home. Accommodation: None (unless arranged) Meal Plan: Breakfast
None
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