6-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
The 6-Day Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular and well-established paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). This route is unique for its comfortable hut accommodations, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a well-supported climb without camping.
Starting from Arusha, the trek ascends through lush rainforest, scenic moorland, and stark alpine desert landscapes. An acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks improves altitude adaptation and summit success. The climb culminates in a spectacular sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak, followed by a descent through verdant forest to Marangu Gate and return to Arusha.
Marangu Route Highlights
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Only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations
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Well-established and well-supported trekking route
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Acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks
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Scenic transition through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert
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Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
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Descent via the same route for familiarity and comfort
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Ideal for trekkers seeking a structured and comfortable climb
Included/Excluded
- Airport transfers
- Pre-climb briefing and full equipment check
- Park fees, camping fees, and conservation fees
- Kilimanjaro rescue and emergency support fees
- Professional, certified mountain guide(s)
- Full mountain crew (assistant guides, cook, and porters)
- All meals on the mountain as specified in the itinerary
- lean, safe drinking water throughout the trek
- Quality tents and sleeping mattresses
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- All government taxes and VAT
- Summit certificate (green or gold certificate upon successful ascent)
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
- Personal trekking gear ( hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Optional equipment rental (available on request)
- ips for mountain crew (guides, cooks, and porters)
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional accommodation before or after the trek (unless specified)
- Emergency evacuation costs not covered by park rescue services
Tour Plan
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Later, meet your professional mountain guide for a full trek briefing, safety orientation, and equipment check in preparation for the climb.
Overnight: Arusha
Meals: Dinner
After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration and park formalities. Begin the trek through lush rainforest, home to waterfalls, birdlife, and colobus monkeys. Reach Mandara Hut for your first overnight stay on the mountain.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 1,860m → 2,700m
Overnight: Mandara Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue trekking through open moorland with giant heathers and sweeping views of the mountain. The gradual ascent allows time for acclimatization as you arrive at Horombo Hut, a spacious and comfortable base with excellent views of Mawenzi Peak.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 2,700m → 3,720m
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy an acclimatization hike to the famous Zebra Rocks, named for their black-and-white striped appearance. Explore the surrounding alpine terrain before returning to Horombo Hut to rest and prepare for higher altitude.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 3,720m → 4,050m → 3,720m
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo through stark alpine desert terrain. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged as you approach Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for the midnight ascent.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 3,720m → 4,700m
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the summit attempt around midnight, climbing steadily through the night. Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise, the highest point in Africa, and enjoy breathtaking views. After celebrating your achievement, descend carefully back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha for relaxation and celebration.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Arusha
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey home, marking the end of your Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
