The Classic Kilimanjaro Experience

Duration: 5 Days | Optional Acclimatization Day | Hut Accommodation

The Marangu Route, often nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route”, is the oldest and most established trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Unique among the climbing routes, it features cozy mountain huts with shared dining areas, offering a more comfortable trekking experience — especially ideal for those seeking a straightforward and scenic ascent. This is the only route that uses the same path to both ascend and descend the mountain.

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Arusha or Moshi to Marangu Gate, nestled at the foot of the mountain. After registration and meeting your guide and crew, begin your trek through lush rainforest teeming with birdlife and curious colobus monkeys. After a gentle 2- to 3-hour hike, you’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop surrounded by forest mist.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,700 m)

Leaving the forest behind, the trail ascends into heath and moorland. As you hike for 4 to 5 hours, the landscape transforms into a surreal mix of giant lobelias and volcanic terrain. Settle in at Horombo Hut, with sweeping views of both Mount Mawenzi and Kibo Peak.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

Continue your climb through the alpine desert zone toward Kibo Hut, the base for your summit attempt. This leg of the journey takes around 5 to 6 hours across a hauntingly beautiful lunar landscape. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for your midnight ascent to the Roof of Africa.

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Down to Horombo Hut

Your summit push begins just after midnight. Trek under a starlit sky, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) in approximately 5 hours, then continue another hour and a half along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak — Africa’s highest point. After celebrating your achievement and taking in the spectacular sunrise, begin your descent back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Civilization

Enjoy a final breakfast on the mountain before descending through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. After receiving your summit certificate, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Marangu Village, full of memories that will last a lifetime.

Optional Acclimatization Day

Add an extra day at Horombo Hut to improve your acclimatization and increase your chances of a successful summit. You can enjoy a short hike toward Zebra Rocks or the Mawenzi Saddle before returning to camp.

Why Choose the Marangu Route?

• Comfortable hut accommodation
• Gentle ascent profile
• Great for first-time climbers
• Scenic, historic, and iconic trail