6-Day Marangu Route - Kilimanjaro Climbing

Introduction and Overview

Embark on an epic 6-day adventure to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, known as the "Coca-Cola Route" for its relative comfort and hut accommodations. This scenic trail takes you through lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glacial zones to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point at 5,895 meters. With an extra acclimatization day to boost your summit success, our expert guides, porters, and cooks ensure a safe and memorable climb. Perfect for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike, this journey with Safe and Love Safaris offers breathtaking views and a true sense of achievement.

Climb Highlights

• Reach Uhuru Peak, the rooftop of Africa at 5,895 meters
• Stay in comfortable mountain huts with bunk beds
• Explore diverse ecosystems, from rainforest to arctic summit
• Extra acclimatization day at Horombo for better summit success
• Guided by experienced Kilimanjaro professionals
• Stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks

Day 1: Arusha to Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

After breakfast in Arusha, drive (approx. 2 hours) to Marangu Gate (1,860m). Meet your climbing team, register, and begin your trek through dense rainforest, alive with birds and monkeys. The 8km hike to Mandara Hut (2,700m) takes 4-5 hours at a gentle pace. Enjoy a warm dinner and settle into the cozy huts for your first night on Kilimanjaro.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Mandara Hut

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Start with breakfast, then trek 11km (6-7 hours) from Mandara to Horombo Hut (3,720m). Move through rainforest into heath and moorland, with views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The trail offers stunning landscapes and chances to spot unique flora. Arrive at Horombo Hut, your base for two nights, for dinner and rest in comfortable huts.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

Spend a day at Horombo Hut to acclimatize, reducing altitude sickness risks. Take a 3-4 hour hike to Zebra Rocks (4,000m) for panoramic views, then return to Horombo for lunch. Relax in the afternoon, enjoy the scenery, and prepare for the ascent ahead. A hearty dinner fuels you for the next leg.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Trek 10km (6-7 hours) from Horombo to Kibo Hut (4,700m), crossing the lunar-like Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain shifts to alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and dramatic vistas. Arrive at Kibo Hut by afternoon, eat an early dinner, and rest before the midnight summit push.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Kibo Hut

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Begin at midnight, climbing 6km (6-8 hours) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Ascend steep scree to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) by dawn, then continue to the summit for sunrise views over Africa. After celebrating, descend 16km (5-7 hours) to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for a well-earned dinner and rest.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Arusha

After breakfast, descend 19km (5-6 hours) from Horombo to Marangu Gate (1,860m) through moorland and rainforest. Collect your summit certificate, bid farewell to your team, and drive back to Arusha, arriving by evening for your departure or optional hotel stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: None (optional stay in Arusha)

Tour Price

The total cost for the 6-Day Marangu Route trek is $1,850 per person (based on double occupancy). This includes hut accommodations, meals, park fees, and full support as listed in the itinerary.