6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025 which is also known as the coca cola route is the least expensive route to the summit. This is also the only route with the comforts of sleeping huts at every camp site with solar lights and comfortable beds. The huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow. There are 60 beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 beds at Horombo Hut. Bathrooms and running water are available at the two lower huts. Mens’ and ladies’ latrines are available at the last camp but are very basic.
All climbing groups, often from several countries around the world, share meals in dining huts providing a jovial and energetic atmosphere. This route is usually done in 5 days (shortest route to the summit) but can be done in 6 days for better acclimatization. The extra day can be spent resting at Horombo or climbing the small peak of Mawenzi.
The 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025 offers a slightly longer climb compared to the 5-day version, giving you an extra day for acclimatization. This extra time can be beneficial in reducing the risk of altitude sickness while still allowing you to experience the iconic “Coca-Cola” route with hut accommodations. Here’s a detailed itinerary for the 6-day Marangu Route.
The Detailed Day by Day 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025 Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Elevation: 1,860m to 2,700m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Arrive at the Marangu Gate, where you’ll check in and begin your climb. The first day’s trek takes you through dense rainforest, where you may spot various types of birds and monkeys. The well-maintained trail leads to Mandara Hut, which provides the first night’s rest at 2,700 meters.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut, 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
On the second day, you’ll ascend from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut at 3,720 meters. The trail begins in the rainforest but gradually transitions to moorland, where you’ll get your first views of the mountain’s surrounding valleys and peaks. Horombo Hut is the largest hut on the Marangu Route and provides a comfortable spot for acclimatization.
Day 3: Horombo Hut (Acclimatization Day) , 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,200m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Today is your acclimatization day. You’ll hike up to Zebra Rocks or a higher elevation point at around 4,200 meters before returning to Horombo Hut. This helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude. You’ll spend the afternoon relaxing at Horombo and preparing for the next phase of the climb.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut, 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,700m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
On this day, you will ascend from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut at 4,700 meters. As you climb, the terrain becomes increasingly arid and rocky, characteristic of the alpine desert zone. The trail is long and challenging, and you’ll be walking through a barren landscape with little vegetation. After reaching Kibo Hut, take the afternoon to rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (Summit) to Horombo Hut, 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 3,720m (Horombo Hut)
Distance: 6 km ascent, 15 km descent
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent, 6-7 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert
The most challenging day of the climb begins around midnight. You will start the trek to the summit via Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa (5,895 meters). The final section of the ascent is steep and can be cold, but the experience of reaching the summit is unforgettable. After spending a short time at the top, you’ll begin your descent to Horombo Hut. The descent takes several hours and provides a welcome break from the altitude.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
On the final day of the trek, you’ll descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. The path is easier as you descend through the lush rainforest once again. Upon reaching the gate, you will be awarded your summit certificate (if you reached Uhuru Peak) and transferred back to your hotel for some much-needed rest.
Key Points to Note for the 6-Day Marangu Route:
Acclimatization: The additional acclimatization day at Horombo Hut makes the 6-day Marangu Route safer than the 5-day version and gives your body more time to adjust to the altitude.
Comfort: The route features hut accommodations, making it a more comfortable option compared to camping routes like Machame or Lemosho.
Pace: The 6-day itinerary provides a slightly more relaxed pace, which can help reduce fatigue and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Weather: The weather varies as you ascend, with rainforest conditions at the lower elevations and Arctic-like conditions near the summit.
This 6-day Marangu Route itinerary offers a balanced approach, providing the extra time for acclimatization and reducing the risk of altitude sickness. It’s perfect for climbers who want to reach the summit while enjoying a bit more comfort and preparation.
Package Inclusion & Exclusions
Inclusion, 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Guide, Porters
Park Fees, Tax
Gate transfer
Crew wages
Environment fees
Camping throughout you climb!
Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
Drinking water
Cook
Exclusion, 6-days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route 2025
Flights
Tipping the crew
Visas