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6 Days Marangu Route
Overview
Often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” the Marangu Route is Kilimanjaro’s most popular path and is considered the most approachable in terms of physical challenge. With comfortable hut accommodations and a gentle ascent, this route offers a great introduction to high-altitude trekking. Despite its reputation as the “easiest,” Marangu should not be underestimated—summiting Africa’s highest peak still demands proper preparation, acclimatization, and determination.
KLA Adventures offers both 5-day and 6-day options, but we recommend the 6-day itinerary to allow for a crucial acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, significantly increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak successfully.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 0: Arrival in Arusha or Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a KLA representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a comprehensive climb briefing and gear check.
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Elevation: 1,980m to 2,700m
- Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Start your Kilimanjaro adventure with a scenic trek through lush tropical rainforest. Along the way, spot blue monkeys, exotic birds, and towering trees draped in moss. Arrive at Mandara Hut, where you’ll settle into your cozy mountain lodge for the night.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m
- Distance: 15 km
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours Today, the trail opens up to rolling moorland with views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks on clear days. The air becomes cooler and thinner as you reach Horombo Hut, where you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and panoramic mountain views.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 3,720m This day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization. Take a light hike to the striking Zebra Rocks (approx. 3,980m) to help your body adjust to the altitude. Return to Horombo for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation, soaking in the mountain silence and fresh alpine air.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 3,720m to 4,700m
- Distance: 15 km
- Hiking Time: 4–6 hours The terrain becomes barren and dramatic as you cross the Saddle, a lunar landscape between Mawenzi and Kibo. Arrive at Kibo Hut by afternoon and rest before your midnight summit push.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) then down to 3,720m
- Distance: 6 km ascent, 21 km descent
- Hiking Time: 13–15 hours At midnight, begin your challenging trek under the stars. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) in time for a breathtaking sunrise, then push on to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Kibo for a short break and lunch, then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Elevation: 3,720m to 1,980m
- Distance: 27 km
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours Descend through changing vegetation zones back to the Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From here, your driver will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, where a hot shower and soft bed await!