Itinerary
Overview
Easiest Path to Africa's Summit
The Marangu Route, nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the go-to trail for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro—both the most popular and the least grueling. It’s unique with its cozy sleeping huts, ditching tents for a comfier vibe, which makes it a perfect pick for newbies or anyone wanting a less taxing trek. The well-worn path winds through thick rainforests, stark alpine deserts, and up to Kilimanjaro’s famous snow-dusted summit.
You can knock it out in 5 days, but tossing in an extra day for acclimatization is a smart move to up your odds of hitting the top. Whether you’re a hardcore explorer or just dipping your toes into trekking, Marangu blends creature comforts with the rush of conquering Africa’s highest peak. What’s drawing you in—the ease or that summit glory?
Itinerary
Day by day
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our team will scoop you up and drop you off at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Chill out and get ready for the climb ahead, with your mountain guide swinging by that evening for a rundown of what’s in store.
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
Day 1: Arusha/Moshi to Marangu Gate – Mandara Huts
After breakfast, you’ll roll out from Arusha or Moshi to Marangu Gate to sign in. Then, it’s go-time—trekking into the lush rainforest, where Colobus monkeys and flashy birds might pop up along the way. By mid-afternoon, you’ll hit Mandara Huts, with a quick side trip option to Maundi Crater for some sweeping views to cap the day.
Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts
You’ll push through the rainforest into the heathland zone, where the scenery cracks open to show off stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. The day wraps at Horombo Huts, giving you a spot to kick back and let your body tune up to the altitude.
Day 3: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts
Post-breakfast, you’ll set out for Kibo Huts, cutting through the barren alpine desert and the wide saddle stretching between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Keep an eye out for altitude sickness signs—this leg’s got a hefty elevation jump.
Day 4: Summit Day! Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Huts
You’ll kick off at midnight, grinding up the steep scree to hit Gilman’s Point as the sun rises. From there, trace the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s rooftop—then soak in the victory. After that, drop back to Kibo Huts for a breather before trekking down to Horombo Huts to wind down the day.
Day 5: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha
You’ll head down through the vibrant forest, pausing for lunch at Mandara Huts before pushing on to Marangu Gate. There, snag your summit certificate and give a nod—and some tips—to your guides and porters. Then, it’s back to Moshi or Arusha for some well-deserved downtime.
Optional Add-On: Keep the adventure rolling with a safari to Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, or unwind with a beach escape to Zanzibar—your pick!
What's Included?
- 6-day Marangu Route climb
- Accommodations in mountain huts (Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut)
- All meals and drinking water (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Park Fees (implied, as it’s a standard inclusion for Kilimanjaro climbs)
- Guiding Services (implied, as guides are mentioned in the context of the climb)
- Transportation (from Moshi to Marangu Gate and back, as indicated by “Leave Moshi at 8am for Marangu Gate”)
- Hotel Stay (2 nights, as mentioned in “MARANGU CLIMB” section, including a hot shower and fresh clothes on the last day)
What's Excluded?
- Travel & Health Insurance
- Visa Fees (for entry into Tanzania, if required)
- International Flights (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport)
- Personal Climbing Gear (hiking boots, clothing, sleeping bag, etc.)
- Tips & Gratuities (for guides, porters, and hotel staff)
- Additional Nights (beyond the included 2 hotel nights)
- Food and Drinks in Town (except for the last day’s breakfast)
- Optional Activities or Equipment Rentals (not specified in the provided results)
Rates
Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently