Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights + 2 Nights in Moshi or Arusha
Route Type: Hut Accommodation
From: $2,195 USD per person
Best For: First-time trekkers seeking comfort and a non-camping route to the summit

Overview

Nicknamed the "Coca-Cola Route," Marangu is the most popular and straightforward path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s also the only route that offers the comfort of dormitory-style huts at every campsite—equipped with beds, solar lighting, and shared dining areas.

Ideal for trekkers who prefer to avoid camping, the Marangu Route offers a sociable atmosphere with international climbers gathering in cozy mountain huts. Bathrooms and cold running water are available at the lower huts, while basic latrines are provided at higher camps.

While this route is often completed in 5 days, an optional 6th day for acclimatization is recommended and can be added at Horombo Hut.

Trip Highlights

• Hut accommodation with beds, solar lighting, and dining huts
• Gentle ascent profile with steady altitude gain
• Ideal for first-time trekkers or those seeking a more comfortable experience
• Trek through rainforest, moorlands, alpine desert, and summit glaciers
• All private departures available year-round – start any day
• Follow with an optional Tanzania safari or Zanzibar beach extension

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Transfer to Moshi or Arusha

A warm welcome awaits at Kilimanjaro International Airport. After clearing customs, your driver will transfer you to your hotel in Moshi (approximately 45 minutes). Settle in, meet your mountain guide for a trek briefing, and finalize your gear. Rental equipment is available if needed.

Meals: None
Accommodation: hotel or Lodge (Mid-Range)

Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate (1 hour), register with park authorities, and begin your trek through lush rainforest toward Mandara Hut. Keep an eye out for black-and-white colobus monkeys and exotic birdlife. A short detour to Maundi Crater offers sweeping views of Tanzania and Kenya.

• Elevation Gain: 1,860m to 2,700m (6,100ft to 8,875ft)

• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Montane Forest

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Mandara Hut

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Leaving the forest behind, the trail climbs steadily through heath and moorland. You’ll enjoy expansive views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks and may spot giant lobelias and groundsels along the way. Altitude effects may begin here.

• Elevation Gain: 2,700m to 3,700m (8,875ft to 12,200ft)

• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Habitat: Heathland

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

The vegetation thins as you ascend into the alpine desert. Cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, and prepare for summit night at Kibo Hut. Early dinner and early bedtime.

• Elevation Gain: 3,700m to 4,700m (12,200ft to 15,500ft)

• Distance: 9 km / 5.5 miles

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Kibo Hut

Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Horombo Hut

Begin your final ascent in the early morning darkness, climbing slowly up scree slopes to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. Push on to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Kibo Hut for a brief rest, then continue to Horombo Hut.

• Elevation Gain: 4,700m to 5,895m (15,500ft to 19,340ft), then down to 3,700m (12,200ft)

• Distance: 6 km up / 15 km down

• Hiking Time: 6–8 hours up / 6–8 hours down

• Habitat: Arctic to Heathland

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi or Arusha

After breakfast, begin your descent through moorland and forest to Mandara Hut, then continue to the park gate. You’ll be met by your driver for a return transfer to Moshi or Arusha. Celebrate your summit success with a well-earned rest.

• Elevation Loss: 3,700m to 1,700m (12,200ft to 5,500ft)

• Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Meals: B, L
Accommodation: Hotel or Lodge (Mid-Range)

Day 7: Departure Day

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight or begin your optional safari or beach extension.

Meals: B

Combine With a Safari or Zanzibar Getaway

Maximize your Tanzania adventure by pairing your climb with a wildlife safari or a beach escape. Ask us for a custom combo itinerary!

Included

• 2 nights in Moshi or Arusha (3-star hotel, upgrade available)

• All park fees and rescue fees

• Kilimanjaro mountain staff: certified English-speaking guide(s), cook, and porters

• Shared hut accommodation on the mountain

• All meals on the trek (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

• Water purification, first aid kit, and emergency oxygen

• Airport arrival transfer

• Transport to/from trailhead

Not Included

• International and domestic flights

• Visa, travel insurance, vaccinations

• Sleeping bag and pad (available to rent)

• Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (budget $400–$600 per person)

• Personal expenses, extra beverages, or snacks

• Portable toilet (optional upgrade)