Kilimanjaro Marangu Route (5 or 6 Days)
The classic Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodation — simple, scenic, and comfortable.
- Tanzania
- 6 Days
- From $1645 Per Person
Overview
The Marangu Route is the most established and comfortable way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Often called the “Coca-Cola Route”, it’s the only route with mountain huts, meaning you sleep in solid shelters instead of tents.
This climb follows a gentle, well-defined trail through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and up to the icy summit of Uhuru Peak. It’s ideal for first-time climbers, travelers who prefer beds over camping, and anyone looking for a straightforward path to Africa’s highest point.
With Safari Vibes Africa, this trip stays flexible — you can choose 5 or 6 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs. The 6-day option adds an extra night at Horombo Hut, improving comfort and summit success.
Highlights
- Classic and most popular Kilimanjaro route
- Hut accommodation (beds, mattresses, dining halls)
- Gradual ascent — great for beginners
- Beautiful scenery from rainforest to glaciers
- Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point
- Option to climb in 5 or 6 days
- Professional mountain guides and porters
Itinerary
(5 or 6 Days – Adjusted for acclimatization needs)
Day 1: Moshi / Arusha – Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut
After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate (1,870m) for registration and briefing.
Begin your hike through lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys and tropical birds.
A steady walk brings you to Mandara Hut (2,700m) for dinner and overnight.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut
Leave the forest behind and climb into open moorland with wide views of Mawenzi Peak.
The trail is gradual, allowing your body to adjust to altitude.
Arrive at Horombo Hut (3,720m) — a scenic and social resting point.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut (6-day option)
This extra day greatly improves summit success.
You’ll take a short hike toward Zebra Rocks, then return to Horombo Hut to rest.
Your body adapts better, and you’ll feel stronger for summit night.
Optional but highly recommended
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut
The landscape changes to alpine desert — dry, open, and dramatic.
The walk is steady but long as you cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo.
Reach Kibo Hut (4,700m), eat early, rest, and prepare for summit night.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
Around midnight, begin the final ascent under the stars.
Pass Gilman’s Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the roof of Africa.
After photos and sunrise, descend carefully back to Horombo Hut.
Hiking time: 10–14 hours (summit + descent)
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi / Arusha
Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate.
Receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate, then transfer back to your hotel.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Includes
- Kilimanjaro park, camping & rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides
- Porters & cooks
- All meals on the mountain
- Tents, sleeping mats & dining tent
- Treated drinking water
- Pre-climb briefing & safety checks
- Ethical porter support standards
Excludes
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Domestic flights (e.g., Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha) unless added to your package
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees and personal travel documents
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips & gratuities for driver/guide (customary but discretionary)
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
FAQ
Is the Marangu Route good for beginners?
Yes. It’s the most beginner-friendly route due to its gradual trails and hut accommodation. However, good fitness and preparation are still important.
Should I choose 5 or 6 days?
We strongly recommend 6 days. The extra acclimatization day increases your chance of reaching the summit and makes the climb more comfortable.
Do I sleep in tents?
No. Marangu is the only route with mountain huts, each with bunk beds, shared dining halls, and toilets.
How hard is the summit night?
Summit night is the most challenging part due to altitude and long hours. Our guides keep a slow, steady pace and monitor your health closely.
What is the success rate on Marangu Route?
- 5 Days Marangu Route: approximately 60–65% summit success rate
- 6 Days Marangu Route: approximately 80–85% summit success rate
At Safari Vibes Africa, our climbs are led by experienced, licensed mountain guides who monitor oxygen levels, walking pace, hydration, and overall health throughout the trek — all key factors in maintaining a high summit success rate while prioritizing safety.
What’s the best time to climb?
The best months are January–March and June–October, when weather conditions are more stable.
Do I need prior climbing experience?
No technical climbing experience is required. This is a high-altitude trek, not a mountaineering climb.
