6-Day Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking

Join Alvin African Safaris for a 6-day climb via the Marangu Route, Kilimanjaro’s classic trail known as the “Coca-Cola Route.” Enjoy hut accommodations and a rewarding summit to Uhuru Peak.

6 Days / 5 Nights (mountain), plus hotel stays

Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Zebra Rock, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak, Marangu Gate

Trekking Overview

Kilimanjaro’s Legendary “Coca-Cola Route”

The Marangu Route is Kilimanjaro’s oldest and most historic trail, starting at Marangu village, home to the Chagga people. Often nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” it’s famed for being perceived as one of the easier paths—but don’t be fooled, this climb still challenges every trekker!

The route is unique because it offers hut accommodations (dormitory-style with beds and solar lighting), unlike the tented camps on other routes. It’s a round-trip trail (ascend and descend the same way), typically completed in 5 to 6 days. This 6-day itinerary includes a valuable acclimatization day at Zebra Rock to help boost your summit success.

Full Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Hotel

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport, where your Alvin African Safaris guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Later, attend a full briefing to review gear, route details, and safety tips.

Meals: Dinner on your own
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,980m) to Mandara Hut (2,720m)

After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate to begin your trek. Hike through the lush rainforest, where you might spot blue monkeys and colorful birds, arriving at Mandara Hut by early afternoon.

  • Habitat: Forest Zone

  • Distance: 8 km

  • Time: 3-4 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mandara Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Today’s hike climbs through the heather and moorland zone, with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. Enjoy lunch en route before settling into Horombo Hut for dinner and a health check.

  • Habitat: Heather & Moorland

  • Distance: 11 km

  • Time: 5-6 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 4: Acclimatization Day – Hike to Zebra Rock (4,000m)

Take an acclimatization hike to the distinctive Zebra Rock, a great way to help your body adjust to the altitude. Return to Horombo Hut to relax, enjoy the scenery, and capture great photos.

  • Habitat: Heather & Moorland

  • Time: ~3 hours round-trip

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,720m)

After breakfast, continue your climb into the alpine desert zone, reaching Kibo Hut—your base for the summit attempt. After lunch, rest and prepare your gear for the early morning start.

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

  • Distance: 9 km

  • Time: 4-5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Horombo Hut

Summit day! Begin your climb just after midnight, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise—a life-changing moment. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Horombo Hut for rest and recovery.

  • Distance: 6 km ascent, 16 km descent

  • Time: 6-7 hours up, 4-5 hours down

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,980m) and Transfer to Hotel

After breakfast, descend through the forest back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Celebrate with your team before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

  • Distance: 18 km

  • Time: 5-6 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 8: Departure – Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Your adventure concludes with a transfer to the airport, ready for your onward journey—until next time!

Meals: Breakfast

Why Choose Alvin African Safaris?

  • Personalized itineraries built around your interests and travel style

  • Expert local guides who bring Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife to life

  • Handpicked lodges and camps for comfort and authenticity

  • Private vehicle and flexible schedules for a more personal experience

  • Trusted, family-run company with deep local knowledge and care for your journey

What’s Included

  • Accommodation as per itinerary

  • Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast at town hotels; Full Board during the Kilimanjaro climb

  • Porters to carry your luggage

  • Salaries and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks

  • Trekking poles and sleeping bag

  • Professional English-speaking mountain guide

  • Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to your hotel in Arusha

  • Drop-off at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) after the trek

  • Transfers to/from Marangu Gate for the climb

  • Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and rescue fees

  • 18% VAT for park fees

What’s Included

  • Tanzania entry visa

  • Medical insurance

  • International and domestic flights

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Non-alcoholic drinks not listed in the itinerary

  • Personal items (e.g., laundry, phone calls)

  • Tips for guides, porters, and camp staff

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