The Marangu Route is also known as the "Coca Cola" or "tourist" route. It is the easiest and shortest route to the summit. This is also the only route with the comforts of sleeping huts at every camp site with solar lights and comfortable beds. The huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow.

There are 60 beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 beds at Horombo Hut. Bathrooms and running water (cold) are available at the two lower huts. Mens and womens latrines are available at the last camp but are very basic.

All climbing groups, often from several countries around the world, share meals in dining huts providing a jovial and energetic atmosphere. Soft drinks, bottled water, and beer may be for sale at the huts. Bring small Tanzanian bills to purchase these items (prices increase with elevation).

This route is usually done in 5 days but can be done in 6 days for better acclimatization. The extra day can be spent resting at Horombo or climbing the small peak of Mawenzi.

All our Kilimanjaro treks are offered as a private trip, starting on any day. We also offer group departures on select dates. Follow your Kilimanjaro trek with a safari!

Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro Airport, Transfer to Arusha city

Day 2: Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Marangu Gate, Hike to Mandara Hut (BLD)

Day 3: Hike Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (BLD)

Day 4: Hike Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (BLD)

Day 5: Hike Kibo Hut to Summit, and down to Horombo Hut (BLD)

Day 6: Hike Horombo Hut to trail head, drive to Arusha city (BL)

Day 7: Depart Arusha city (B)

Day 1: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha city. Meet your guide for a full briefing and equipment check.

• Meals included: None

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha city at Mvuli Lodge or Outpost Lodge

Day 2: 5-Day Marangu Route Trek Begins – Arusha to Marangu Gate, Hike to Mandara Hut (BLD)

After breakfast and a final briefing, you will drive from Arusha to the Kilimanjaro National Park Marangu Gate (approximately 2–2.5 hours). After registration, your adventure begins. The day’s hike leads you through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut.

A short side hike to Maundi Crater offers fantastic views across northern Tanzania and into Kenya. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys, birdlife, and towering eucalyptus trees.

• Elevation: 1860m / 6100ft → 2700m / 8875ft

• Distance: 8 km / 5 mi

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Montane Forest

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Mandara Hut (Budget)

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (BLD)

Today’s trail leaves the rainforest and enters the open moorlands. As you ascend toward Horombo Hut, enjoy spectacular views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, along with the region’s unique high-altitude vegetation such as giant lobelias and groundsels. Altitude effects may begin to be felt.

• Elevation: 2700m / 8875ft → 3700m / 12,200ft

• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Habitat: Heathland

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Budget)

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (BLD)

Your trek continues upward past the last water point, crossing the expansive saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Vegetation gradually fades into a rocky, lunar-like alpine desert. Arriving at Kibo Hut, you will have an early dinner before resting and preparing for your summit attempt.

• Elevation: 3700m / 12,200ft → 4700m / 15,500ft

• Distance: 9 km / 5.5 mi

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Kibo Hut (Budget)

Day 5: Summit Attempt – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, Descent to Horombo Hut (BLD)

Your summit push begins shortly after midnight. The climb to Gilman’s Point is strenuous, following steep switchbacks over scree or snow. Once at the crater rim, you will continue to Uhuru Peak (5895m / 19,340ft)—the highest point in Africa. Celebrate with photos at the summit before descending to Kibo Hut for a rest and lunch, then continue on to Horombo Hut.

This is the toughest day of the trek, with cold temperatures and a long climbing duration. Moving slowly (pole pole) and maintaining a positive mindset are key.

• Elevation: 4700m / 15,500ft → 5895m / 19,340ft (summit), then down to 3700m / 12,200ft

• Distance: 6 km / 4 mi up; 15 km / 9 mi down

• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours up; 5–6 hours down

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Budget)

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, Return to Arusha (BL)

After breakfast, you will descend through the heather zone to Mandara Hut, then continue through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. Expect muddy sections in lower elevations. Your driver will meet you at the gate for the return drive to Arusha (approximately 2–2.5 hours). Upon arrival at your hotel, the celebration begins! Don’t forget to tip your guides and porters in appreciation for their hard work.

• Elevation: 3700m / 12,200ft → 1700m / 5500ft

• Distance: 20 km / 12.5 mi

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

• Habitat: Forest

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha city at Mvuli Lodge or Outpost Lodge

Day 7: Depart Arusha city (B)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to your next adventure. If you are beginning a safari, your guide will collect you at the hotel. Airport transfers to Kilimanjaro International Airport can also be arranged.

• Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

• Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook

• All meals and purified drinking water during the trek

• Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees

• Tents and camping gear

• Pre- and post-climb hotel accommodation

• Airport and trailhead transfers

• Emergency oxygen and first aid kit

What’s Not Included

• International flights

• Tanzania visa fees

• Tips (approx. $350–$400 per climber)

• Personal trekking equipment (available for rent)

• Extra hotel nights if needed

• Portable toilet (available on request)

• Bottled and alcoholic beverages