6-Day Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro Trek

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the 6-day Marangu Route with Big 7 Safari Tours. Enjoy comfortable hut accommodations, expert guides, and scenic views on this popular “Coca-Cola” trekking route.

Overview

The Classic “Coca-Cola” Path to Africa’s Highest Peak

Known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, the Marangu Route is the most established and comfortable path to the Roof of Africa. It’s the only route that offers permanent hut accommodation, making it ideal for trekkers who prefer a bit more comfort during their Kilimanjaro adventure.

This 6-day itinerary is perfect for first-time climbers, offering a gradual ascent and an extra acclimatization day, which significantly boosts your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, diverse ecosystems, and a well-supported trek with experienced guides.

✅ Comfortable hut accommodation (no camping!)

✅ High success rate due to better acclimatization

✅ Stunning views of volcanic peaks and crater walls

✅ Unique alpine scenery and rich biodiversity

✅ Great for beginners and those seeking a less rugged route

Day to Day Itinerary

Trek Through the Rainforest

  • Elevation: 1,860m to 2,700m (6,046 ft to 8,858 ft)

  • Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours

  • Habitat: Rainforest

After breakfast in Moshi, drive to the Marangu Gate where you’ll complete registration formalities. Begin your journey through a tropical rainforest, alive with birds and monkeys. Keep an eye out for blue monkeys as you ascend through lush terrain toward Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop.

💡 Stay hydrated and listen to your body. This is your first day at altitude.

Overnight: Mandara Hut (wooden cabins with bunk beds)
Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

Out of the Forest Into Moorland

  • Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m (8,858 ft to 12,205 ft)

  • Distance: 12 km / 7 miles

  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

  • Habitat: Heath / Moorland

Leave the forest canopy behind as the trail opens into wide moorland valleys with giant lobelias and rolling hills. If weather permits, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Kibo and Mawenzi, two of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Climb High, Sleep Low

  • Elevation: 3,720m to 4,400m (12,205 ft to 14,400 ft)

  • Distance: 5 km / 3 miles

  • Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

  • Habitat: Heath / Alpine Desert

This day is dedicated to acclimatization—a crucial factor for summit success. Take a short hike to Mawenzi Ridge, offering dramatic views and surreal alpine landscapes. After exploring the area, return to Horombo Hut for a restful evening.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Alpine Desert Crossing

  • Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m (12,205 ft to 15,430 ft)

  • Distance: 10 km / 6 miles

  • Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Cross the barren Saddle, a lunar-like desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The air thins as you ascend, so pace yourself and take regular breaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut, your final base camp before the summit push.

⚠️ Get to bed early—summit night begins before midnight!

Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Summit Day – Conquer the Roof of Africa!

  • Ascent: 4,703m to 5,895m (15,430 ft to 19,341 ft)

  • Descent: 5,895m to 3,720m (12,205 ft)

  • Distance: 6 km up / 16 km down (4 miles up / 10 miles down)

  • Time: 6–8 hours up / 5–6 hours down

  • Habitat: Arctic to Heath

Your summit attempt begins before dawn—a steep climb over scree and ice to Gilman’s Point (5,681m). Witness an unforgettable sunrise over Mawenzi Peak, then continue along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point.

Celebrate briefly, take your photos, then descend to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest and hearty dinner.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Final Descent Through the Forest

  • Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m (12,205 ft to 6,046 ft)

  • Distance: 20 km / 12 miles

  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

  • Habitat: Rainforest

Descend through moorland and lush rainforest, ending your journey at Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to return you to your hotel in Moshi for a hot shower and celebration.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Map Overview !

Marangu_Route_map

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