6 Days Marangu Route: The Classic Kilimanjaro Experience
The 6-day Marangu Route is one of the most iconic and straightforward trekking experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro. Often referred to as the "Coca-Cola Route," it is the only route with hut accommodations instead of tents, offering trekkers added comfort.
The route takes you through a variety of breathtaking landscapes, from the lush rainforest and heather moorlands to alpine desert and the icy summit of Uhuru Peak. Its direct path and gradual elevation profile make it ideal for beginners, while the 6-day itinerary provides an extra day for acclimatization, improving summit success rates.
This route is perfect for those seeking a well-supported and comfortable trek with a balanced mix of adventure and ease.
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Elevation: 1,870m (6,135 ft) to 2,720m (8,923 ft)
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Begin at Marangu Gate, trekking through the lush rainforest teeming with wildlife such as colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Arrive at Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop. Optional side hike to the Maundi Crater offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 2,720m (8,923 ft) to 3,720m (12,205 ft)
- Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Leave the rainforest behind as the trail opens to heather and moorland. Enjoy stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks as you approach Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205 ft)
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours (optional hikes)
Spend the day at Horombo Hut for acclimatization. You can take a short hike to the Mawenzi Saddle, gaining additional altitude and improving your chances of summit success.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205 ft) to 4,703m (15,430 ft)
- Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
The trail leads through alpine desert as you approach Kibo Hut, the base camp for your summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 4,703m (15,430 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) (descent to 3,720m/12,205 ft)
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
- Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Begin the final ascent just after midnight. Navigate steep and challenging terrain to reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652 ft) before continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement and descend back to Horombo Hut for an overnight rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205 ft) to 1,870m (6,135 ft)
- Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Descend through the moorland and rainforest, returning to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate and enjoy a transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
Tour Inclusions:
- Professional and certified mountain guides, porters, and cooks
- Transfers to and from the trailhead
- Park entry, camping, and rescue fees
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping pads, chairs, and dining tables)
- Pulse oximeter for daily health monitoring
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
Tour Exclusions:
- Flights to and from Tanzania
- Personal trekking gear (e.g., boots, jackets, sleeping bags)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Personal expenses, such as snacks and drinks
- Additional hotel stays before or after the trek
Contact US Now!
Arusha – Tanzania
+255 682 009 908
info@kiligatesexpedition.com
kiligatesexpedition@gmail.com