6 Days Marangu Route
Overview
There are six established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro – Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame, and Umbwe routes all approach from the south of the mountain. The Lemosho and Shira routes approach from the west. The Rongai route approaches from the north near Kenya. All routes except Marangu and Rongai descend via Mweka.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via The Marangu Route
Marangu Route, commonly known as the Coca Cola route is more popular because it can be done in fewer days and has permanent sleep huts at the campsites.
Summit night from Kibo Hut is steep and passes Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. It is a shorter route with a steeper incline and less time for acclimatization it tends to have a lower summit success rate. This is the only route where the ascent and descent route is shared, thus creating more traffic.
Duration: 5 or 6 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Good
Traffic: High
DAY 1: MARANGU GATE – MANDARA HUTS: 8.3km /5mi | 4-5 hrs | Rainforest
Elevation: 1905m/6250ft to 2723m/8934ft
Altitude gained: 818m
Departing from Moshi a 1-hour drive will take you through the Village of Marangu to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles here.
DAY 2: MANDARA HUTS – HOROMBO HUTS: 12.5km/7.8mi | 6-8hrs | Mooreland
Elevation: 2723m/8934ft to 3721m/12,208ft
Altitude gained: 998m
After a good nights sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rain forest and continue on an ascending path, through heathland, looking for giant lobelias and groundsels. Continue up into open moorlands where small shrubs are the main vegetation. Stop halfway for lunch, to enjoy amazing views of Mawenzi. Arrive at the Horombo Huts late afternoon beneath the spectacular Kibo Summit viewpoint. Temperatures begin to drop.
DAY 3: HOROMBO HUTS
You can spend a full day and a second night at Horombo. On this day, you can either rest at the huts or take a stroll up to the Mawenzi base camp then return to the Horombo Huts. This extra day will help your acclimatization, and further your understanding of the mountains weather and altitude. After your pause, you will continue up to the Kibo Huts on your fourth day for your midnight start to the summit.
DAY 4: HOROMBO HUTS- KIBO HUTS: 10.5km/6mi | 6-8hrs | Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3721m/12,208ft to 4714m/15,466ft
Altitude gained: 993m
After breakfast, we continue on through the dwindling heathland that blends into a moonscape as you enter the sweeping saddle connecting Mawenzi and Kibo. Here while we stop for lunch, and later when you cross this surprisingly large saddle, you can examine the summit climb up Kibo that you will be starting in just a few hours.
DAY 5: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT: 6.25km /3.9 mi up | 5-7hrs | – HOROMBO HUTS: 15.75km /9mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit
Elevation: 4714m/15,466ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 1181m
Descent to 3721m/12,208ft
Altitude lost: 2174m
Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.
We continue our way to the summit in a switchback formation through trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion, we ascend through heavy scree and possibly snow towards Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.
Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!
After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment. We begin our steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for uncooperative loose gravel and volcano ash terrain. Well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain. Overnight Mweka Camp.
DAY 6: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – MOSHI: 20km/12.5mi |6-7hrs | Rainforest
Elevation: 3721m/12,208 to 1905m/6250ft
Altitude lost: 1816m
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here. You return back to the Marangu Park Gate and receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 45 minutes). Enjoy a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!
REQUEST FREE QUOTE
Our Whatsapp chat available 24/7
Short Important Information
Acclimatization is Key
Altitude sickness is the biggest challenge on Kilimanjaro. Our itineraries are designed to help your body adjust gradually with the “pole pole” (go slow) approach. Longer routes have higher summit success rates.Proper Gear is a Must
The weather can change quickly, from hot to freezing cold. Pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, thermal sleeping bags, and quality hiking boots. A complete packing list will be provided after booking.Physical Fitness Helps
You don’t need to be an athlete, but good physical preparation is essential. We recommend cardio exercises and long walks or hikes before your trip. Mental strength is just as important as physical fitness.Weather Conditions
Expect a variety of climates as you climb—starting from tropical forests to arctic zones near the summit. Nights can be extremely cold, especially above 4,000 meters. Always be prepared for rain and wind.Guides and Porters Included
All our packages include experienced guides, porters, and a cook for your comfort and safety. They’ll carry your heavy bags and set up camp or arrange hut stays. Tips for the crew are highly appreciated and customary.Medical and Safety Measures
Our team carries a first aid kit, pulse oximeters, and oxygen cylinders for emergencies. Your health is monitored daily during the trek. In case of severe altitude sickness, emergency descent will be arranged.Park Fees and Permits Covered
All government park fees, rescue fees, camping or hut charges are included in your package. No hidden costs. Your climb is fully authorized and compliant with Kilimanjaro National Park regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How difficult is it to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, meaning no ropes or climbing gear are needed. However, the altitude and long hiking days make it physically and mentally demanding. Proper preparation and acclimatization are key to a successful summit.What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months are January–March and June–October. These are the driest and most stable weather periods, offering better visibility and a safer trekking experience.Do I need prior climbing experience?
No technical experience is required. Many first-time climbers successfully reach the summit each year. Good physical fitness and mental determination are enough.What if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained in altitude sickness response and will monitor your health daily. We carry oxygen and first aid, and if needed, emergency descent will be arranged immediately.What should I pack for the climb?
You’ll need warm layers, waterproof gear, hiking boots, a sleeping bag, a headlamp, and basic personal items. A detailed packing list will be shared after booking.Is Wi-Fi or mobile network available on the mountain?
Mobile signal is available in some areas, but it is unreliable. Some camps may have limited Wi-Fi (for a fee), but we recommend using this time to disconnect and enjoy nature.How much weight do porters carry?
Porters are limited to carrying 15 kg (33 lbs) of your personal luggage. You’ll carry a small daypack with your essentials like water, snacks, camera, and jacket.Are meals and drinking water provided?
Yes, all meals are freshly prepared by our mountain chef. Clean, treated drinking water is provided daily. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000 meters), emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation.How do I prepare for the trek?
Begin training at least 6–8 weeks before your trek with hikes, walking, cardio workouts, and strength training. The goal is to build endurance and get used to long hours on your feet.
Includeds
Park fees and rescue fees
Accommodation in mountain huts or tents during the climb
Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
Meals during the climb (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
Excludeds
International and domestic flights
Visa and travel insurance
Personal gear and equipment (e.g. sleeping bag, hiking boots)
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Extra nights at hotels before or after the climb (unless specified)