6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via Marangu Route
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Route: Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)
Destination: Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
Start/End: Arusha or Moshi
Accommodation: Mountain Huts
Meal Plan: Full Board (FB)
Overview, 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
The Marangu Route, commonly known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most classic and well-established path up Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route offering accommodation in comfortable mountain huts, making it a great choice for climbers who prefer extra comfort and shelter.
This 6-day program offers a more gradual ascent and an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, significantly increasing your chance of reaching the summit successfully. The route passes through lush rainforests, open moorlands, alpine deserts, and the glaciated summit zone — providing an unforgettable range of landscapes and ecological zones.
Day 1: Arusha / Moshi – Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Mandara Hut (2,700m)
After breakfast, you will be driven from Arusha or Moshi to Marangu Gate, where you will complete the registration formalities. The trek begins through the dense and vibrant rainforest, home to blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various bird species. The trail gradually ascends through towering trees draped with moss, crossing small streams and wooden bridges.
You will reach Mandara Hut in the afternoon. After settling in, you may take a short hike to Maundi Crater for spectacular panoramic views of Kenya’s plains. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Mandara Hut.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 8 km | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720m), 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
Today’s trek takes you from the lush rainforest into the heath and moorland zone, where vegetation becomes more open and the air cooler. The trail passes through rolling hills covered with giant heathers and other unique alpine flora. Clear views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks often appear as you climb higher.
You will arrive at Horombo Hut in the afternoon, where you can relax and enjoy the mountain views. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 12 km | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (3,720m), 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
This is a very important acclimatization day, which greatly improves your chances of successfully reaching the summit. After breakfast, take a short acclimatization hike towards the Mawenzi Ridge (4,300m). The walk offers stunning views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks and helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Return to Horombo Hut for lunch, rest, and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay at Horombo Hut.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours (optional walk) | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,703m), 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
After breakfast, the trail climbs gradually through the alpine desert, passing the Last Water Point before crossing the wide, barren Saddle — a dry plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This stretch is open and scenic, offering a clear view of your final destination, Kibo Hut.
You will arrive in the afternoon and rest as you prepare for your summit attempt. Your guide will brief you on what to expect during the climb to Uhuru Peak. Dinner and early rest at Kibo Hut.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 10 km | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m), 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
You will wake up around midnight to begin your summit ascent. The climb is steep and challenging, leading first to Hans Meyer Cave (5,150m), then continuing on to Gillman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From there, a final effort takes you to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point in Africa.
Reaching the summit at sunrise is a breathtaking and emotional experience. After celebrating and taking photos, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.
Hiking time: 12–14 hours total (7 up / 5 down) | Distance: 21 km | Habitat: Arctic / Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Arusha / Moshi, 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
After breakfast, descend through the moorland and lush rainforest back to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you will sign out and collect your Kilimanjaro summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 18 km | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
End of the 6-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Climb, 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
Congratulations on conquering Mount Kilimanjaro via the historic Marangu Route! This classic climb combines adventure, comfort, and the beauty of Africa’s highest mountain. Optional post-climb extensions are available — including a relaxing night in Arusha, a wildlife safari to Tanzania’s national parks, or a Zanzibar beach holiday.
Package Inclusion & Exclusions
Inclusion, 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
- Guide, Porters
- Park Fees, Tax
- Gate transfer
- Crew wages
- Environment fees
- During the climb you will be camping throughout you climb!
- Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
- Drinking water
- Cook
Exclusion, 6-days Kilimanjaro Climbing Marangu route itinerary.
- Flights
- Tipping the crew
- Visas