Why Choose Marangu Route?

Hut Accommodations

The only route with dormitory-style huts featuring beds and mattresses, providing more comfort than camping.

Moderate Difficulty

Known as the "Coca-Cola Route" for being the most gradual ascent, making it ideal for first-time trekkers.

Same Path Up & Down

The only route that follows the same path for ascent and descent, offering familiarity on the way down.

Pricing Options

Choose the duration that fits your schedule and budget

6 Day Trek

Recommended

Includes acclimatization day for better success rates and comfort

Good success rate (75-80%)
Includes acclimatization day
More comfortable hut accommodations

Prices:

1 person: $2,000
2-5 persons: $1,600/person
6+ persons: $1,500/person

5 Day Trek

For experienced hikers with limited time

Lower success rate (65-70%)
Faster ascent
More challenging

Prices:

1 person: $1,700
2-5 persons: $1,500/person
6+ persons: $1,400/person

Route Overview

Days

72km

Distance

65-80%

Success Rate

Moderate

Difficulty

Route History

The Marangu Route, nicknamed the "Coca-Cola Route," is one of Kilimanjaro's oldest and most established paths. It was the first route developed for tourism and remains popular due to its hut accommodations and gradual ascent profile.

This route has been used for decades and is known for its comfortable huts and relatively gentle slopes. While it's considered the easiest route, proper acclimatization is still crucial for summit success.

Why Marangu Stands Out

What makes Marangu special is its unique hut accommodations and the fact that it's the only route where you sleep in dormitory-style huts rather than tents. The route offers a more comfortable experience with beds and communal dining areas at each stop.

Pro Tip

The 6-day Marangu itinerary includes a crucial acclimatization day at Horombo Hut. This extra day significantly improves your chances of reaching the summit by allowing your body to adjust to the altitude before the final push.

Detailed Itinerary

6-day Marangu Route schedule with elevation profile

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you'll be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you'll meet your guide and have a pre-climb briefing to discuss the adventure ahead.

Kilimanjaro International Airport

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Begin your trek from Marangu Gate (1,870m), walking through dense rainforest to reach Mandara Hut (2,700m). Marvel at the lush vegetation and spot wildlife such as blue monkeys.

Duration

5-7 hours

Distance

8 km

Elevation Gain

+830m

Hut Altitude

2,700m

Mandara Hut

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Trek through a unique forest and enter the moorland zone as you reach Horombo Hut (3,720m). Enjoy views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks along the way.

Duration

6-8 hours

Distance

12 km

Elevation Gain

+1,020m

Hut Altitude

3,720m

Horombo Hut

Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

Spend the day at Horombo Hut to adjust to the altitude. Optionally, hike to Zebra Rocks (3,980m), known for their striking black and white formations. This day significantly improves your chances of summit success.

Activity

Acclimatization

Optional Hike

Zebra Rocks

Hike Elevation

+260m

Hut Altitude

3,720m

Horombo Hut Area

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Trek across the alpine desert to Kibo Hut (4,700m). The landscape becomes more barren as you ascend. Rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt in the basic dormitory accommodations.

Duration

6-8 hours

Distance

10 km

Elevation Gain

+980m

Hut Altitude

4,700m

Kibo Hut

Summit Day: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Hut

Begin the climb at midnight to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After taking in the sunrise, descend back to Kibo Hut for a rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.

Duration

10-16 hours

Distance

21 km total

Elevation

4,700m → 5,895m → 3,720m

Hut Altitude

3,720m

Uhuru Peak - Highest Point in Africa

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Descend through the rainforest back to Marangu Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates. Celebrate your achievement and transfer back to Moshi.

Duration

5-7 hours

Distance

20 km

Descent

-1,850m

Gate Altitude

1,870m

Marangu Gate - Journey's End

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Two nights accommodations in Moshi
Transfer to and from the mountain
18% VAT (Value Added Tax) on tour fees and service
Park fees
Hut accommodations (shared dormitory style)
Three hot meals daily on the mountain
Hot water for washing
Fair wages for the mountain crew: guides, cook, and porters
Emergency oxygen tank

Exclusions

Visa fees
Flights
Travel insurance
All items of personal nature
Lunch, dinner, and drinks at your hotel
Tips for the team: guides, cooks, and porters

Recommendation Tips:

Guide: $20-$25/day
Cook: $15-$20/day
Porters: $10/day

Additional Costs

Private toilet: $100 for the entire trek
Extra hotel night in Moshi: Double room $100, Single $80
Extra porters for excess gear: $10/day

Requirements:

Good physical condition (for hiking and safaris)
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
Visa
Appropriate clothing for hot and cold temperatures
Camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing (Optional)

Pricing Information

Our Kilimanjaro pricing is subject to availability and may change without notice. The price is only guaranteed once paid for in full or in installments. Prices quoted are subject to changes outside our control, which may increase the cost of the product or service.

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