The 7-day Marangu Route offers a well-paced and comfortable approach to summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu is the only path with hut accommodations, making it ideal for climbers who prefer more shelter and structure. This itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut to increase your chances of a successful summit. Trekking through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zones, you’ll experience Kilimanjaro’s dramatic ecological diversity. With gradual elevation gain, professional mountain guides, and a scenic yet direct trail, this route is an excellent choice for those seeking a classic Kilimanjaro experience with added comfort and acclimatization time.
7 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE
Mount Kilimanjaro
TREK OVERVIEW
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Distance: ~8 km | Time: 4–5 hours
Climate: Rainforest – humid and warm
Acclimatization: First gradual altitude gain
Terrain: Dense forest trails with gentle inclines
Begin your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and vibrant birds. Overnight in Mandara huts.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: ~12 km | Time: 6–8 hours
Climate: Transition from rainforest to moorland – cooler, breezy
Acclimatization: Significant gain; pace is essential
Terrain: Open moorland with giant heathers and volcanic rock
Enjoy wide views as you climb past Maundi Crater and continue toward Horombo with views of Mawenzi Peak. Overnight in Horombo huts.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
Distance: Optional 5–8 km to Zebra Rocks (3,980m)
Climate: Cool and dry
Acclimatization: Crucial day for adjusting to altitude
Terrain: Rocky slopes with sparse vegetation
A short hike to Zebra Rocks enhances acclimatization. Return to Horombo for rest and prep for higher altitude.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Distance: ~10 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Climate: Alpine desert – dry, windy, colder
Acclimatization: Slow pace helps avoid altitude sickness
Terrain: Barren, rocky paths with little vegetation
Trek through a moonscape passing the “Last Water Point.” Arrive at Kibo for an early dinner and summit briefing.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut
Distance: ~6 km up + 15 km down | Time: 12–16 hours
Climate: Arctic at the summit – freezing temps, wind
Acclimatization: Challenging ascent – steady rhythm needed
Terrain: Steep switchbacks on loose scree to crater rim, then snowy paths to summit
Start at midnight and reach Gilman’s Point, then Uhuru Peak for sunrise. Celebrate and descend to Horombo for a well-earned rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Distance: ~20 km | Time: 6–7 hours
Climate: Warmer as you descend into rainforest
Acclimatization: No longer needed – rapid descent
Terrain: Forest trails, possibly muddy
Descend through moorland and back to the forest. At the gate, receive your certificate and say goodbye to the crew. Transfer to hotel.
Day 7: Departure / Optional Extension
Distance: N/A
Climate: Depends on your post-climb destination
Acclimatization: N/A
Terrain: N/A
Relax at your hotel or head to Kilimanjaro Airport. Optional extensions include safari adventures or a Zanzibar beach holiday.
END OF TREK
- Guiding Fee
- Transport during the trip
- Drinking Water
- Hiking and safety equipment
- Permit and Entrace Fees
- Group Porters (transport of tents, cooking equipments etc for the group)
- Accommodation
- Air Port Transfers
- International Flights ( From / To Home )
- Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Alcohol Drinks
- Rescue Fee
- Climbing Gear
GREEN HILLS SAFARIS
