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Kilimanjaro Climb
Marangu Route
The Only Hut-Based Kilimanjaro Trail
About
The Marangu Route takes its name from a Chagga village on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro. Commonly referred to as the "Coca-Cola Route," it is the oldest and most established path on the mountain and the only route that provides hut accommodation, where climbers sleep in shared dormitories with beds and mattresses.
Mandara and Kibo Huts each offer around 60 bunk beds, while Horombo Hut has approximately 120. Facilities include dining areas and basic washrooms. Although less scenic than other routes, it is favoured for its comfort and straightforward nature. The shorter duration can make acclimatisation more challenging.
Key Information
Duration
5 or 6 days
Best Season
January – March, June – October
Starts At
Moshi, Tanzania
Success Rate
85%
Group Size
1–8 people
Itinerary
Day 1 of 6
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Marangu Gate (1,843m), approximately 124 km away. Following registration and gear checks, the trek begins around midday.
The trail passes through lush rainforest, the second ecological zone of Kilimanjaro, rich in unique plant species and wildlife. After a steady 4-5 hour walk at a relaxed pace ("pole pole"), you will arrive at Mandara Hut located at the forest edge.
Your crew will already be at camp preparing your meal. Dinner will be served, followed by overnight rest.
1,905m to 2,704m
8km
4-5 hours
Lunch & Dinner
Hut
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
The day begins with a short walk through the remaining forest before transitioning into the heath and moorland zone. As the vegetation opens up, you may get your first clear views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
The trek continues gradually uphill to Horombo Hut, with a lunch stop along the way. You will reach camp in the afternoon, where refreshments will be served followed by dinner and rest.
2,704m to 3,719m
12km
6-8 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hut
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Today's trek begins with a steady ascent before crossing the Saddle - a vast, dry plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This section offers a unique, almost lunar landscape with wide open views.
As you approach Kibo Hut, the air becomes noticeably thinner. This camp serves as your base for the summit attempt. After arrival, you will rest, have an early dinner, and prepare for the night climb.
3,719m to 4,714m
10km
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hut
Night 3: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (Summit Attempt)
Around midnight, you begin your summit push. The climb takes place in darkness, with frequent short breaks to manage energy and altitude.
After about 5-6 hours, you reach Gilman's Point on the crater rim. From here, if timing allows, you can witness a spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi Peak.
The trek continues to Stella Point (5,745m), and finally to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the highest point in Africa.
4,714m to 5,895m
7-8 hours
Day 4: Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
After celebrating at the summit and taking a short rest, you begin your descent via Kibo Hut and across the Saddle back to Horombo Hut.
In the evening, enjoy your final dinner on the mountain and a well-deserved rest after a long and demanding day.
5,895m to 3,719m
6-7 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
The final day involves a long descent through moorland and back into the rainforest. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you will receive your summit certificates.
A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you for a celebratory lunch and then back to your hotel. This marks the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
3,719m to 1,905m
20km
5-6 hours
Breakfast & Lunch
Pricing
Per person in USD.
| Group Size | 5 Days |
|---|---|
| 1 person | USD 3,164 |
| 2 people | USD 2,364 |
| 3 people | USD 2,095 |
| 4 people | USD 1,889 |
| 5 people | USD 1,838 |
| 6 people | USD 1,791 |
| 7 people | USD 1,835 |
| 8+ people | USD 1,785 |
| Group Size | 6 Days |
|---|---|
| 1 person | USD 3,522 |
| 2 people | USD 2,677 |
| 3 people | USD 2,383 |
| 4 people | USD 2,161 |
| 5 people | USD 2,108 |
| 6 people | USD 2,056 |
| 7 people | USD 2,099 |
| 8+ people | USD 2,046 |
Prices include all services listed under "What's Included". International flights and personal equipment are not included.
What's Included
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Two nights accommodation in Arusha on a bed & break fast basis (one night before the trek and one night after the climb)
- Airport pick-up and drop-off transfers
- Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- All Kilimanjaro National Park fees and permits
- Camping or hut accommodation fees (depending on the route selected)
- Crater camping fees (where applicable)
- Emergency rescue service fees
- Premium-quality four season mountain tents
- Comfortable high-density sleeping mattresses
- Experienced, professional and friendly mountain crew, including certified Wilderness First Responder guides, cooks and porters
- Three freshly prepared and nutritious meals per day during the trek
- Safe, filtered, and treated drinking water throughout the climb
- Hot water for basic washing during the expedition
- Fair wages and Ethical treatment of all mountain staff in accordance with KINAPA & KIPAP standards
- All government taxes and statutory charges
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
- Certified English-speaking mountain guide (other language available upon request)
- Pulse Oximeter and first aid kit
- Private portable toilet with privacy tent
- Mountain communication radio for safety and emergency support
- Official Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Not Included
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania visa fee (approx. $50–100 depending on nationality)
- Travel insurance (altitude coverage required)
- Personal trekking gear and equipment rentals
- Tips for guides and porters (recommended $300–450 per participant)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Photos
FAQ
What makes the Marangu Route unique?
It is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodation — trekkers sleep in bunk beds with mattresses instead of tents, making it a more comfortable option for those who prefer not to camp.
Is the Marangu Route suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trail is well-defined and follows a gradual gradient. However, the 5-day version offers limited acclimatisation time, which can reduce summit success. We recommend the 6-day option for first-time climbers.
What is the difference between 5 days and 6 days on the Marangu Route?
The 6-day version includes an extra acclimatisation day at Horombo Hut (Day 3), allowing your body more time to adjust to the altitude. This significantly improves summit success rates.
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Quick Facts
- Duration5 or 6 days
- Best SeasonJanuary – March, June – October
- Starts AtMoshi, Tanzania
- Success Rate85%
- Group Size1–8 people