6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route is one of the most popular and direct paths to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, it is the only route on Kilimanjaro with hut accommodations, providing trekkers with dormitory-style lodging instead of tents. This makes it a comfortable and budget-friendly option for climbers. The extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut improves summit success rates, making it a better alternative than the shorter 5-day version. The route follows a gradual ascent, passing through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts before reaching the icy summit.
Why Choose the 6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route ?
Marangu is ideal for first-time climbers due to its well-maintained paths, gradual slopes, and hut accommodations, which make it less physically demanding than camping routes. While it is one of the shortest routes, the extra acclimatization day allows for better altitude adjustment, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. However, unlike other routes, Marangu follows the same trail up and down, which limits scenic variety but ensures an easier descent.
Detailed 6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,879m) to Mandara Hut (2,720m) – Rainforest Zone, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route
The trek begins with a morning pickup from Moshi or Arusha, followed by a drive to Marangu Gate, where climbers register and meet their guides. The hike starts through lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and tropical birds. The well-maintained trail leads to Mandara Hut, the first overnight stop. Trekkers can take an optional short hike to Maundi Crater, offering stunning panoramic views of Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscapes.
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: 841m
Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,720m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Moorland Zone
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail enters the moorland zone, where vegetation shifts to giant heathers and lobelias. The landscape opens up, revealing spectacular views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The trek continues at a gradual pace, allowing for a steady acclimatization before reaching Horombo Hut, where trekkers will spend the night.
Hiking distance: 12 km
Hiking time: 6-7 hours
Elevation gain: 1,000m
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (3,720m)
An extra acclimatization day is spent at Horombo Hut to improve the chances of reaching the summit. A short hike to Zebra Rocks (4,020m), a striking black-and-white striped rock formation, helps trekkers adjust to the altitude before returning to Horombo Hut to rest. This “climb high, sleep low” strategy is essential for preventing altitude sickness.
Acclimatization hike distance: 5 km
Hiking time: 2-3 hours
Elevation gain: 300m (then descend 300m)
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m) – Alpine Desert Zone
The trek continues across The Saddle, a vast stretch of alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The landscape becomes rocky and barren, with dramatic glacier views. Arriving at Kibo Hut, the final base camp before the summit attempt, trekkers will have an early dinner and rest before the midnight ascent.
Hiking distance: 9 km
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: 983m
Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut (4,703m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
The most challenging and rewarding day begins just after midnight. Trekkers follow steep switchbacks through freezing temperatures as they slowly ascend to Gilman’s Point (5,685m). Upon reaching the crater rim, they will witness a breathtaking sunrise over the glaciers before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating at the summit, trekkers descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut, where they will spend the night.
Hiking distance: 21 km
Hiking time: 12-14 hours
Elevation gain: 1,192m (then descend 2,175m)
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,879m), Return to Moshi/Arusha
The final descent passes back through the moorland and lush rainforest, where trekkers may see wildlife such as blue monkeys and exotic birds. Arriving at Marangu Gate, climbers receive their Kilimanjaro summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of an incredible adventure.
Hiking distance: 20 km
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation loss: 1,841m
Challenges & Considerations of the 6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route
The Marangu Route is one of the easiest trails on Kilimanjaro, but it still presents altitude challenges. The extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut greatly improves success rates, but trekkers must still prepare for cold temperatures, steep ascents, and long trekking days. A potential drawback is that the ascent and descent follow the same path, limiting the variety of scenery compared to routes like Machame or Lemosho.
Why Trek Kilimanjaro via the 6-Day Marangu Route in 2025/2026?
The 6-day Marangu Route is the best option for trekkers who prefer hut accommodations instead of tents. It provides a balance between comfort and adventure, making it ideal for first-time climbers or those looking for a shorter trek with good success rates. The extra acclimatization day increases the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak, and the well-maintained trails make it one of the most accessible routes to the summit.
This 6-day Marangu Route trek for 2025/2026 is the perfect once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a safe, scenic, and comfortable climb to the Roof of Africa. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, this well-structured itinerary ensures an unforgettable adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Inclusions, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Clean, purified drinking water
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
All meals while on the Mountain
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Sleeping Mattress
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Quality Mess tents with table and chairs
Exclusions, 6-days Kilimanjaro in Marangu Route
Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
Tanzania Visa
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
Tips and gratuities
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Meals not listed in the itinerary
Hotel (available as an optional addon)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)