What is the Marangu Route?
The Marangu Route is the oldest and most famous route to the summit of Kilimanjaro. It is also known as the "Coca-Cola Route" because there are simple huts along the way where soft drinks used to be available.
Why choose the Marangu Route?
*More comfortable than camping.
*Clear path and not technically difficult.
*Suitable for people who prefer sleeping in a bed.
*Popular choice for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers.
*Overnight stay in mountain huts (no tents)
the various stages:
Marangu Gate (1,870 m) – Start of the trek.
Mandara Hut (2,720 m) – Through the rainforest.
Horombo Hut (3,720 m) – Heath and moorland.
Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Alpine landscape.
Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – The highest point in Africa.
Return via the same route.
Although the 6-day route is possible, we recommend the 7-day variant. An extra acclimatization day increases the chance of reaching the summit safely and successfully.
The route is not technically difficult, but the altitude poses the greatest challenge.
Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 7 days
Day 1:
You will be warmly welcomed by our driver, who will take you to your accommodation. At the hotel, you will enjoy a delicious meal and a pre-trekking briefing led by our experienced coordinators, who will prepare you for the adventure ahead. The trek begins from Moshi and takes you through the stunning landscapes of Kilimanjaro, starting in the rainforest and gradually ascending to higher altitudes as you make your way to the summit. Each day we give you the chance to acclimatize at various camps, while our team ensures your safety and comfort. The ultimate highlight of the trek is the ascent of Uhuru Peak, where you will stand at the highest point in Africa. After this amazing journey and the achievement of reaching the summit, the descent offers one last opportunity to enjoy the diverse landscape.
Day 2 Hiking distance: 8 km:
After a good night's sleep and a delicious breakfast, you depart from Moshi for a 1-hour drive to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you complete the necessary registration formalities before starting your trek through the lush rainforest. Gradually, you climb to your first camp hut. Along the way, you may spot monkeys and other wildlife. Upon arrival, you are greeted with a warm meal and stay in comfortable A-frame huts. In the evening, you have the opportunity to take a short acclimatization walk to the Maundi Crater, from where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Day 3: Hiking distance: 12 km
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before continuing your trek through the lush rainforest and moving on to the heath zone. As you climb higher, the vegetation gradually changes, revealing a more rugged and open landscape. The 6-hour hike to the next camp offers breathtaking views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks along the way. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a warm meal and given the opportunity to relax and acclimate to the higher altitude. In the evening, your guide will give a briefing for the next day's trek, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Height 3,720 m
Day 4 Hiking distance: 10 km:
You walk through an expansive, moonlike desert known as the “Saddle,” a barren and rugged landscape that stretches between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The views of the impressive peaks on either side are truly breathtaking. The hike lasts about 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the vastness of the landscape. Upon arrival, you will prepare for an early meal and rest, conserving your energy for the upcoming summit attempt. In the evening, your guide will give a detailed briefing to prepare you for the final ascent, which will begin just before midnight. Height 4,700 m
Day 5 Hiking distance: 22 km
Around midnight, you will begin the final climb to Uhuru Peak. The trek to Gillman’s Point, at 5,685 meters, is steep and demanding, usually taking about six hours of steady climbing. This challenging section will test your endurance, but of course, you will have the support of your guide. Once you reach Gillman’s Point, you will traverse the crater rim towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. If the weather cooperates, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the continent. After celebrating your incredible achievement at the top, you will begin the descent. Height 5,895 m
Day 6 :Hiking distance: 20 km
After breakfast, you begin your descent through the various heath and lush rainforest zones, back to the Marangu Gate. As you make your way down, you can enjoy the last views of the landscape and reflect on what you have accomplished. Upon reaching the gate, you will receive your well-deserved summit certificate as proof of your achievement. From there, you will be taken back to your accommodation in Moshi, where a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await you. If you are interested in extending your adventure, you can extend your stay after a day of rest with another fantastic experience, namely an exciting wildlife safari or a relaxing trip to the beautiful surroundings. We would be happy to provide you with more information about that.
Day 7:
After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. If you wish to extend your adventure, you can choose to add a day trip to your itinerary, exploring nearby attractions or immersing yourself in the local culture. Check out our day trips page. Alternatively, you can continue your journey with a visit to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Explore our Zanzibar page to find the perfect package for your next excursion. If you are interested in adding a safari experience, visit our safari page for more information on our exciting safari options.
INCLUDED:
*Two nights accommodation in Moshi double or triple occupancy (before and after the climb)
*Includes dinner & breakfast
*Qualified guides with mountain crew
*Pulse oximeters
*National park fees
*Boiled water on the mountain
*Hut/camping fees and tents
*Tents foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and (Cutlery / Crockery) eating utensils.
*Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
*First aid kit
*Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
*Meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner
*Airport transfers (JRO – Kilimanjaro International Airports)
*Guides, porters, waiter, cook accommodation and entry fees on the mountain
NOT INCLUDED:
*Extra activities (waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
*Visa fees
*Travel insurance
*Flight tickets.