The best 6-Days Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route to Summit-2025
Best 6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: Marangu Route to Summit (2025, 2026, 2027)
Why Choose the 6-Day Marangu Route?
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most classic path for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s a perfect choice for climbers looking for a steady, comfortable ascent, thanks to its gradual slope and well-defined path. With overnight stays in mountain huts, this route offers a unique experience not available on other Kilimanjaro routes. The six-day option gives you an extra day for acclimatization, significantly increasing your chances of reaching the summit.
The Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel in Moshi for an overnight stay.
Pre-climb briefing by your guide, covering essential tips and gear checks.
Day 2: Moshi – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Mandara Hut (2,720 m)
After breakfast, a transfer to Marangu Gate for registration.
Trek through dense rainforests, keeping an eye out for Colobus monkeys, to Mandara Hut.
Overnight at Mandara Hut.
Distance: 8 km | Trekking time: 4-5 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Day 3: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Continue through moorlands, experiencing the change in vegetation as you ascend.
Stop at Maundi Crater for panoramic views before arriving at Horombo Hut.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Distance: 12 km | Trekking time: 6-8 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Acclimatization Day
Spend an extra day at Horombo for acclimatization.
Take a short hike towards Mawenzi Hut, then return to Horombo for the night.
Optional Hike: 5 km (round trip) | 3-4 hours
Day 5: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,703 m)
Cross the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, entering the alpine desert.
Reach Kibo Hut, resting before the final summit push.
Overnight at Kibo Hut.
Distance: 10 km | Trekking time: 5-7 hours | Habitat: Alpine desert
Day 6: Kibo Hut – Summit (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut
Start the midnight trek to Uhuru Peak, passing Gilman’s Point (5,681 m).
Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and enjoy the incredible sunrise.
Descend back to Horombo Hut for the night.
Distance: 19 km (total) | Trekking time: 12-16 hours | Habitat: Arctic
Day 7: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi
Final descent back to Marangu Gate where you will receive your summit certificate.
Transfer to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
Distance: 20 km | Trekking time: 5-7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Day 8: Departure
Depending on your flight, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey home.
Inclusions
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Clean, purified drinking water
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
All meals while on the Mountain
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Sleeping Mattress
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
Exclusions
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Tanzania Visa
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
Tips and gratuities
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Hotel (available as an optional addon)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
FAQs About the Marangu Route
What makes the Marangu Route different from other routes? The Marangu Route is the only route that offers hut accommodation instead of camping, providing more comfort and shelter from the elements.
How difficult is the Marangu Route? While the terrain is less challenging compared to other routes, the final ascent is still demanding, especially the midnight trek to the summit.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro? The best times to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route are during the dry seasons: January to March and June to October.
Why Book the 6-Day Marangu Route with Us?
Expert Guides: Our experienced guides have a deep understanding of the Marangu Route and will ensure your safety and success.
Comprehensive Support: We provide all necessary gear and offer personalized assistance to meet your individual needs.
Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy the unique hut system, which offers beds and blankets, making your climb more comfortable than camping routes.
Unmatched Success Rate: The additional acclimatization day dramatically increases your chances of reaching the summit.
