Mount Kilimanjaro 6-Day Climbing Tour via Marangu Route Known as the 'Coca-Cola' Route

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Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, the Marangu route is a classic trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the oldest, most well-established route. Many favor the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope. It is also the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations.

Duration: 6 days

Cancellation: 24 hours

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Highlights

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
The journey begins with a departure from Moshi to Marangu Gate, where necessary formalities are completed before starting the trek. The trail ascends through a stunning tropical rainforest….

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

The journey begins with a departure from Moshi to Marangu Gate, where necessary formalities are completed before starting the trek. The trail ascends through a stunning tropical rainforest. At the upper edge of the forest, there is a chance to spot blue monkeys. The path then broadens, revealing beautiful hillsides until reaching Mandara Hut.

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation (ft): 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Heath

The day begins by continuing through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. This section may offer the first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, two of the three volcanic peaks forming Kilimanjaro’s summit.

Horombo Hut - Mawenzi Ridge - Horombo Hut

Mount Kilimanjaro - Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,400 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Heath

Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut
Elevation (ft): 14,400 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Heath

This additional day is designed for acclimatization and can be spent hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape provides inspiring views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After exploring the area, the return to Horombo Hut follows.

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 10 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The climb continues gradually, crossing the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. The camp, Kibo Hut, is located at the base of the Kibo crater wall. Here, rest and an early dinner prepare for the summit day.

Kibo Hut - Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut

Mount Kilimanjaro - Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak
Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft
Distance: 16 km/10 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Heath

The summit push begins very early in the morning (around midnight). This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. The wind and cold at this altitude and time can be intense. The ascent is made in darkness for several hours with frequent, short breaks. At Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft), a breathtaking sunrise over Mawenzi Peak awaits. Finally, reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and in Africa, is a remarkable achievement.

After a brief moment to appreciate the African plains and the accomplishment, the descent to Horombo Hut begins. The evening is spent enjoying the last dinner on the mountain and a well-deserved rest.

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Mount Kilimanjaro - Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km/12 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

The final day involves a long trek, mostly downhill, through the tropical rainforest. Upon reaching the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, summit certificates are collected. A vehicle will be waiting to transport everyone back to the hotel in Moshi.

What's Included