Overview
The Marangu Route, famously known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only Kilimanjaro trail offering comfortable hut accommodation, making it an excellent choice for climbers seeking both adventure and convenience. This 5-day trek approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the eastern side, following a steady ascent through diverse landscapes. Along the way, you’ll journey through lush rainforest, scenic moorlands, alpine desert, and rugged volcanic terrain. The adventure culminates at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. This trek offers a wonderful balance of comfort, value, scenic beauty, and unforgettable adventure.
Tour Features
Hut Camping
This trek uses huts
Private Tour
This safari is arranged privately for your group.
Solo Travelers
Suitable for solo travelers.
Customizable
This itinerary can be customized.
Children Policy
Minimum age accepted is 12.
Start Date
This safari can start on any day.
Highlights
Marangu Gate (1,870m) → Mandara Hut (2,720m) – Rainforest Trek
Mandara Hut (2,720m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Moorland Trek
Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Kibo Hut (4,703m) – Alpine Desert Trek
Kibo Hut (4,703m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Summit Day
Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Marangu Gate (1,870m) – Descent & Departure
Your Safari Map
Mandara Hut
Horombo Hut
Kibo Hut
Uhuru Peak
Marangu Gate
Safari Itinerary
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi and transferred to Marangu Gate for registration and final preparations. Once the formalities are complete, your Kilimanjaro adventure begins. Trek approximately 8 km through the lush rainforest, surrounded by towering trees, tropical vegetation, colorful birds, and playful monkeys. After approximately 4–5 hours, arrive at Mandara Hut, where you will settle in, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
- Accommodation: Mandara Hut
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation
Mandara Hut
After breakfast, continue your ascent toward Horombo Hut, covering approximately 12 km over 6–7 hours.The rainforest gradually gives way to the beautiful moorland zone, characterized by giant lobelias, groundsels, open valleys, and spectacular mountain scenery. Enjoy views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks as you steadily gain altitude. The gradual ascent also provides valuable time for acclimatization. Upon reaching Horombo Hut, enjoy dinner and a well-deserved rest.
- Accommodation: Horombo Hut
- Meals: All meals included
Accommodation
Horombo Hut
After breakfast, begin the trek toward Kibo Hut, covering approximately 10 km over 6–7 hours. As you climb higher, vegetation becomes increasingly sparse and the landscape transforms into an impressive alpine desert, with volcanic rocks and open, rugged terrain. Enjoy magnificent views of Kibo Peak, Mawenzi Peak, and the Saddle separating the two summits. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon and spend the evening resting and preparing for your summit attempt. An early dinner and sufficient rest are essential before beginning the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- Accommodation: Kibo Hut
- Meals: All meals included
Accommodation
Kibo Hut
Today you will have most challenging and rewarding day begins around midnight. Under the starlit African sky, begin the steep ascent toward Gilman's Point, continuing along the crater rim toward Stella Point before making the final climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After approximately 6–8 hours of climbing, reach the summit and celebrate your achievement while enjoying spectacular sunrise views over Tanzania. After taking photographs and enjoying your time at the summit, begin the descent to Kibo Hut for a short rest and refreshments. Continue descending to Horombo Hut, arriving after approximately 10–14 hours of trekking in total.
- Accommodation: Horombo Hut
- Meals: All meals included
Accommodation
Horombo Hut
After breakfast, begin your final descent toward Marangu Gate, covering approximately 20 km over 5–6 hours. The trail takes you back through the beautiful rainforest, where you can enjoy the warmer climate, lush vegetation, birds, and monkeys. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, collect your Kilimanjaro summit certificate and celebrate your successful ascent of Uhuru Peak. After saying goodbye to your mountain crew, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation details are available on request for this part of the itinerary.
Tanzania