Kilimanjaro Trek via Marangu Route - 6 Days
Tour Overview
Kilimanjaro Climb via Marangu Route – 6 Days
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest, most well-established path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, known as Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet). It is one of the most popular routes, especially among first-time trekkers, due to its relatively gentle gradient and comfortable accommodations. Unlike other Kilimanjaro routes that require camping, Marangu offers permanent wooden huts with dormitory-style beds and basic solar lighting, providing shelter and convenience in an otherwise wild and remote environment.
Trekkers following this route begin their journey in the lush rainforest zone, filled with tall trees, moss, and vibrant birdlife. As the trail gains altitude, the landscape shifts to moorland and then to alpine desert, before reaching the cold, windswept arctic zone near the summit. The route typically takes 5 to 6 days to complete, with an optional acclimatization day at Horombo Huts to increase summit success rates.
Despite its reputation for being “easier,” the Marangu Route still poses a significant challenge due to the high altitude. It’s also the only route that uses the same path for both ascent and descent, which can make the trail feel more crowded compared to other options. However, its mix of comfort, scenic variety, and historical significance continues to attract trekkers from around the world.
Safari Highlights
Only route with hut accommodation – sleep in solar-powered mountain huts with beds and shared facilities
Gradual and steady ascent – easier acclimatization for beginners
Scenic diversity – pass through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the arctic summit zone
Panoramic views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks
Optional acclimatization day at Horombo Hut to improve summit success
Cultural and historical significance – the original route used by early explorers
Type: Hut Accommodation Trek
Route: Marangu Route
Duration: 6 Days on the Mountain / 2 Nights at Hotel in Moshi/Arusha (optional)
Difficulty: Moderate
Success Rate: Moderate to High
Best For: Beginners, those seeking more comfort and a shorter trek.
Price - Based on2 Pax $ 2,115 Per Person
Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), you’ll be warmly greeted by a representative from Travencia Safaris. After a friendly welcome and short briefing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. As you drive through the foothills of Kilimanjaro, keep an eye on the horizon, on clear days, the mountain may reveal itself briefly before retreating behind clouds. This first glimpse of Africa’s tallest peak often stirs a mix of excitement and awe.
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast.
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) → Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins! After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate to register, meet your mountain team, and start the trek. Today’s trail winds gently upward through a lush rainforest teeming with monkeys, birds, and exotic flora. You’ll arrive at Mandara Hut — your first mountain home — nestled in the heart of the forest. Optional short hike to Maundi Crater for scenic views over Kenya.
- Distance: ~8 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Day 2: Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Leave the rainforest behind as the trail opens into heather and moorland. You’ll pass giant lobelias and heathers while enjoying expansive views of the twin peaks — Mawenzi and Kibo. The air becomes crisper as you gain elevation, and by the time you reach Horombo Hut, you’ll feel the adventure deepening.
- Distance: ~11 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Today is all about giving your body time to adjust to the altitude a crucial step for summit success. You’ll stay another night at Horombo Hut, but can take a short hike to Zebra Rocks, named for their distinctive volcanic stripes. The scenery here is absolutely worth the effort, and this hike helps your body “climb high, sleep low,” a proven strategy to acclimatize effectively.
- Distance (Optional): ~5–6 km round trip
- Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Day 4: Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Today you trek across the dramatic alpine desert known as “the Saddle,” a barren, windswept expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo. It’s dry, cold, and awe-inspiring. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut in the early afternoon, where you’ll rest, hydrate, and enjoy an early dinner. Try to sleep early — summit night begins just after midnight.
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 5: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
The big day is here. Just before midnight, you’ll begin your summit push under the stars. Step by step, you’ll ascend steep switchbacks through scree and stone until you reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From there, it’s a final push along the snowy path to Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa!
Take a few unforgettable moments at the summit for sunrise, photos, and celebration, then begin your descent back to Horombo Hut via Kibo. It’s a long, challenging day — but you’ll end it with the sweet satisfaction of standing on top of Africa.
- Distance: ~6 km up + 16 km down
- Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Day 6: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate (1,860m)
Enjoy your final morning on the mountain. As you descend through moorland and into rainforest, take in the last views and breathe in the rich forest air. At Marangu Gate, you’ll sign out and receive your official summit certificate — proof that you made it to the top!
Your driver will be waiting to return you to Moshi/Arusha for a warm shower, a hot meal, and some well-deserved celebration.
- Distance: ~20 km up + 16 km down
- Hiking Time: 5 -7 hours
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast.
PRICING INCLUDES
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
- All Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
- Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
- Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
- Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
- Drinking water (filtered and treated)
- Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
- Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
- Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- Pre-climb briefing with your guide
PRICING EXCLUDES
- International airfare to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania entry visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel)
- Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required)
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry)
- Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol)
- Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek
- Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost)
- Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices
Inquire This Tour
Acclimatization Considerations – Marangu Route 6 Days.
The 6-day Marangu Route offers a more forgiving itinerary compared to the 5-day version, giving trekkers an extra day to acclimate before the final summit push. While still a relatively fast route, this additional day significantly increases comfort, safety, and the chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) successfully.
Extra Day Improves Altitude Adaptation
Unlike the 5-day itinerary, the 6-day version includes two nights at Horombo Hut (3,720m). This gives your body additional time to adjust before ascending to higher elevations, helping to reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Still Limited “Climb High, Sleep Low” Options:
Though improved, the route still lacks built-in “climb high, sleep low” opportunities found on other trails. However, optional acclimatization hikes from Horombo Hut (e.g. toward Zebra Rocks or Mawenzi Ridge) can simulate this strategy and further aid acclimatization.
Hydration, Nutrition & Slow Pacing Remain Vital:
Even with the extra day, altitude can still pose a challenge. Trekkers should focus on drinking plenty of water, eating well, and walking slowly, especially as they approach Kibo Hut (4,700m) and prepare for the summit push.
More Accessible for a Wider Range of Trekkers:
The 6-day Marangu Route is a better choice for:
- First-time high-altitude hikers
- Trekkers with moderate fitness who want hut accommodations instead of tents
- Climbers concerned about altitude adjustment on a shorter itinerary
- Anyone seeking a balance between comfort and summit success
Preventive Measures Still Recommended
acclimatization day, altitude medication such as Diamox (consult your doctor) may still be helpful. Being aware of AMS symptoms and communicating with your guide early is essential for safety.
Experience & Support
- Led by expert Travencia Safaris mountain guides, certified in Wilderness First Response (WFR).
- Supported by a full mountain crew – including guides, porters, and cooks
- Emergency preparedness – oxygen, oximeters, and access to park rescue services
- All meals provided – hot, nutritious meals prepared daily
- Accommodation – huts with beds and basic shared facilities (no camping required)
Frequently Asked Questions – Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek
Is the Marangu Route the easiest way to climb Kilimanjaro?
Yes, the Marangu Route is widely considered one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Its gradual incline and well-maintained trail make it physically less demanding than routes like Machame or Lemosho.
Unlike other routes that require camping, Marangu provides dormitory-style hut accommodations, which adds comfort and convenience. However, “easy” is relative — Kilimanjaro is still a high-altitude mountain, and proper acclimatization and physical preparation are essential.
Why is it called the "Coca-Cola Route"?
The Marangu Route earned the nickname “Coca-Cola Route” because, historically, climbers could buy Coca-Cola and snacks at the huts along the way.
It also refers to the route’s greater accessibility and comfort — climbers sleep in huts instead of tents, and the trail is well-established. Compared to the more rugged “Whiskey Route” (Machame), Marangu offers a smoother and more social trekking experience.
Do I sleep in tents on the Marangu Route?
No, you do not need to camp on the Marangu Route. It’s the only route on Kilimanjaro with permanent hut accommodations at each overnight stop: Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo huts.
Each hut provides wooden bunk beds with mattresses, and most have solar lighting and shared toilets (either Western-style or squat toilets, depending on the camp). While the huts are simple, they offer shelter from the cold and rain, making this route ideal for those who prefer not to camp.
How long is the Marangu Route trek?
The Marangu Route typically takes 6 days, which includes an important acclimatization day at Horombo Hut on Day 4. The full route covers around 72 kilometers (45 miles) round-trip.
There is a 5-day version, but we strongly recommend the 6-day itinerary for a safer and more enjoyable climb, as it allows your body time to adjust to the altitude, which significantly increases your chances of reaching the summit.
Is an acclimatization day included in the 6-day trek?
Yes, the 6-day Marangu itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization day at Horombo Hut on Day 4. This is a key feature that sets it apart from the shorter 5-day version.
During this day, climbers can take a short hike to Zebra Rocks (3,980m) and return to Horombo for another night of sleep at the same altitude. This “climb high, sleep low” method is highly effective in preparing your body for the high-altitude push to the summit.
What is the success rate for the Marangu Route?
The summit success rate on the 6-day Marangu Route is typically around 75–80%, especially when the acclimatization day is used properly. In contrast, the 5-day version has a lower success rate (~50–60%) due to the faster ascent and reduced time for the body to adjust.
While the trail itself is not technically difficult, the altitude (up to 5,895m / 19,341 ft) is the biggest challenge. Going slow, staying hydrated, and listening to your guides will greatly improve your success.
What are the toilet and bathroom facilities like?
Each hut along the Marangu Route has shared bathroom and toilet facilities. While they are basic, they are more comfortable than outdoor bush toilets or portable camp toilets used on other routes.
Toilets vary between western-style and squat latrines, and cleanliness can vary depending on the number of trekkers. It’s a good idea to bring toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and hygiene wipes for personal comfort.
Can I rent hiking gear for the Marangu Route?
Yes, many local outfitters in Moshi and Arusha offer high-quality rental gear for your trek. This includes items such as:
- Waterproof jackets and pants
- Hiking boots
- Sleeping bags (if needed for warmth in huts)
- Trekking poles
- Gaiters and gloves
- Headlamps and duffel bags
Renting gear can save you money and reduce luggage weight when flying. It’s always best to coordinate gear rental with your tour operator in advance.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route?
The best times to trek the Marangu Route (and Kilimanjaro in general) are during the dry seasons:
- January to mid-March: Warm, clear conditions; fewer crowds
- June to October: Cool, dry weather; most popular and stable season
Avoid the rainy seasons (April–May and November), as trails become slippery and visibility is often poor. Regardless of the season, nights at higher camps are cold year-round, especially near the summit.
Do I need previous trekking experience to do this?
No previous trekking experience is required to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, but you should be in moderate physical condition and comfortable hiking for several hours per day.
This route is great for first-time trekkers or travelers new to high-altitude hiking, thanks to its gradual incline and structured setup. We recommend doing a few practice hikes at home and staying active in the weeks before your trip. Mental resilience, pacing (“pole pole”), and a positive mindset are just as important as physical training.
