marangu Route Itinerary
8 Days | 7 Nights
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only path on Mount Kilimanjaro offering hut accommodation instead of camping. It is the most popular and budget-friendly option, typically completed in 5 to 6 days. However, its shorter duration allows less time for acclimatization, resulting in a lower summit success rate than longer routes. The ascent and descent follow the same trail, passing through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert.
Start your journey
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
An Africa Nature Photography representative will greet you at JRO and transfer you to your hotel. Rest in comfort, enjoy hot showers, Internet, and a swimming pool. In the evening, meet with our managers for a pre-climb briefing.
Private packages include shared airport transfers. Coordinate times to avoid extra fees.
PLEASE NOTE: Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
DAY 2 Trekking from Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate for permits and registration. Trek through lush rainforest, home to colorful birds and monkeys, to Mandara Hut. Optional afternoon walk to Maundi Crater for panoramic views.
Trekking time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
DAY 3 Trekking from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
The trail ascends into heath and moorland, offering views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut for an overnight stay.
Trekking time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles).
DAY 4 Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
This day is reserved for acclimatization. A common hike is to Zebra Rocks, gaining about 300 m in altitude before returning to Horombo.
Trekking time: 2–4 hours (optional)
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles, optional)
Lodgings
Canopy Migration Camp - Ndutu
DAY 5 Trekking from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Ascend steadily through the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks to reach Kibo Hut. Rest early for your summit bid.
Trekking time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
DAY 6 Summit to Uhuru Peak, then descent to Horombo Hut
Depart before midnight for the steep climb to Gilman’s Point and onward to Uhuru Peak. After celebrations and photos, descend to Kibo for a break, then continue to Horombo Hut.
PLEASE NOTE: Fatigue is high on descent — stay alert.
Trekking time: 12–16 hours
Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
DAY 7 Descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Final descent through rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive summit certificates and transfer to your hotel.
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
DAY 8 Descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Breakfast and airport transfer.
PLEASE NOTE: Check-out at 11:00 AM; late check-out available for an extra fee.
