The Best Five-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route to Summit in 2025, 2026, and 2027
Itinerary Overviews
The Best Six-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route to Summit in 2025, 2026, and 2027
Introduction to the Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola” route, is one of Kilimanjaro’s most popular paths due to its relatively moderate slopes and comfortable hut accommodations. It is the only route where climbers sleep in mountain huts rather than tents. This six-day variation allows for more acclimatization, improving your chances of reaching the summit successfully. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or an experienced climber, this route is a classic choice for a memorable ascent to the Roof of Africa.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Trek Preparation
Arrival in Moshi/Arusha: After landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha. Our experienced guides will conduct a thorough briefing to ensure you’re prepared for the climb.
Overnight Stay: Moshi/Arusha
Day 2: Moshi to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,015 meters
Your adventure begins at the Marangu Gate (1,840m), where you’ll enter the lush rainforest and start your ascent. As you hike through the forest, keep an eye out for unique wildlife like the colobus monkeys. After 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Mandara Hut for your first overnight stay.
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,020 meters
The day’s journey takes you through the heath and moorland zone, offering stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s twin peaks, Kibo and Mawenzi. The terrain becomes more rugged as you approach Horombo Hut, where you’ll stay for two nights.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
Optional Hike: Walk to the Zebra Rocks (4,000m)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
This acclimatization day is crucial for helping your body adjust to the altitude. You’ll take an optional hike to the nearby Zebra Rocks, an iconic rock formation that offers beautiful panoramic views. After returning to Horombo Hut, you’ll have time to rest and prepare for the challenging days ahead.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Elevation Gain: 983 meters
Leaving Horombo Hut, you’ll pass through an alpine desert zone known as “The Saddle,” a barren yet striking landscape between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon, where you will rest and gear up for the early morning summit attempt.
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Summit (Uhuru Peak – 5,895m), then Descend to Horombo Hut
Summit Hike Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Hiking Time to Uhuru Peak: 6-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,192 meters
Descent Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
Descent Time: 5-6 hours
Your summit attempt begins just after midnight. The climb to Gillman’s Point is steep and demanding, but your efforts are rewarded as you reach the rim of the crater. From there, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise. After celebrating your accomplishment, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Descent Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
Descent Time: 6-7 hours
On the final day, you’ll trek back down to the Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. You’ll then be driven back to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha for a well-deserved celebration.
Why Choose the Six-Day Marangu Route?
Extra Acclimatization: The additional day at Horombo Hut improves your chances of reaching the summit by helping your body adjust to the altitude.
Hut Accommodation: With the comfort of sleeping in huts, you’ll have a more restful experience compared to tented routes.
Moderate Difficulty: The Marangu Route’s relatively gentle slopes and well-maintained paths make it a great option for first-time climbers.
Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro in 2025, 2026, and 2027
Recommended Seasons: The ideal months for climbing are January to March and June to October. These periods provide the most stable and favorable weather conditions, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trek.
What’s Included in the Package?
Accommodation: Overnight stays in mountain huts, as well as hotel accommodations before and after the trek.
Meals: Nutritious meals throughout the trek, ensuring you stay energized from start to finish.
Guides, Porters, and Support Staff: Expert guides, porters, and chefs will accompany you throughout the journey, providing assistance and ensuring your safety.
Call to Action
Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro? Book your Six-Day Marangu Route adventure for 2025, 2026, or 2027 today! This extended trek gives you the best chance of a successful summit while enjoying the comfort of hut accommodation. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most iconic treks in the world. Reserve your spot now and make your Kilimanjaro dream come true!
Package Inclusion & Exclusions
Inclusion
Guide, Porters
Park Fees, Tax
Gate transfer
Crew wages
Environment fees
During the climb you will be camping throughout you climb!
Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
Drinking water
Cook
Exclusion
Flights
Tipping the crew
Visas
