Best 6 Days Marangu Route Trek
- Mt. Kilimanjaro
6 Days Trek
Starting from
N/A
per person*
- +255 762 982 004
Best 6 Days Marangu Route Trek
- The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, is the only Kilimanjaro trail with hut accommodations instead of tents. The journey begins in the lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife, before transitioning into the moorland zone with giant lobelias. As you climb higher, you’ll traverse the alpine desert before reaching the glacier-covered Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
- The 6-day Marangu Route includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, which improves your chances of reaching the summit. The steady ascent and “climb high, sleep low” strategy at Mawenzi Ridge (4,310m) help your body adjust to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Follow your guide’s pace, stay hydrated, and listen to your body for a successful trek.
- The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is challenging but rewarding. You’ll start the climb around midnight, navigating steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) before continuing to Stella Point (5,756m) and finally reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise. Witnessing the golden dawn over the glaciers and the vast Tanzanian plains is an unforgettable moment.
- Experience diverse While the Marangu Route is known for its gradual ascent, the descent can be tough on the knees. Trekking poles will help reduce strain as you descend from the summit back to Horombo Hut, then through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Proper footwear and endurance training will make this trek more comfortable.ecosystems, from colobus monkeys in the rainforest to unique plants like giant lobelias and everlasting flowers in the moorland zone.
- Unlike other Kilimanjaro routes that require camping, the Marangu Route provides shared huts with bunk beds, offering a warmer and more comfortable stay. The huts are equipped with mattresses, pillows, and communal dining areas, making this route ideal for trekkers who prefer a less rugged experience while still conquering Africa’s highest peak.
Trip Overview
The 6-Day Marangu Route is one of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its hut accommodations, gradual ascent, and scenic beauty. This route begins in the lush rainforest, where you might spot colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife. As you ascend, the landscape transitions into moorland, followed by the rugged alpine desert, leading to the final climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa.
With a well-structured itinerary and an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, the 6-day trek enhances your chances of reaching the summit. The steady ascent and “climb high, sleep low” approach help in altitude adjustment, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a balanced challenge. The Marangu Route also offers a less rugged experience, as it is the only route with mountain huts instead of tents, providing added comfort.
If you’re looking for a scenic, well-supported, and rewarding Kilimanjaro trek, the 6-Day Marangu Route is a great option!
Trip Itinerary
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Arrival
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Lemali Tours and Safaris representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel, as per your package. The hotel offers cozy rooms, hot showers, attentive staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access for a comfortable stay. In the evening, our team will conduct a detailed briefing to ensure you are fully prepared for your climb.
Private tour packages include shared airport transfers for your group. Additional individual transfers can be arranged at an extra cost. To minimize charges, we recommend coordinating your group’s arrival and departure times. -
Accommodation
Hotel in Arusha or Moshi
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Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut (2,700m/8,858ft)
Your adventure begins at Marangu Gate with registration before trekking through the lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and exotic birds. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Mandara Hut, where you’ll rest and explore the nearby Maundi Crater for spectacular views. Elevation Gain: 1,860m (6,102ft) to 2,700m (8,858ft), Hiking Distance: 8km (5mi), Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
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Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,205ft)
Leaving the forest, you’ll enter the moorland zone, passing giant lobelias and groundsels. The trail offers panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. After 5–7 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, where you’ll rest before the next ascent. Elevation Gain: 2,700m (8,858ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft), Hiking Distance: 12km (7.5mi), Hiking Time: 5–7 hours, Habitat: Moorland.
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Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
This day is dedicated to acclimatization, essential for reducing altitude sickness risks. You’ll take a short hike to the Mawenzi Ridge (4,310m/14,140ft) before returning to Horombo Hut to rest and prepare for the climb ahead. Elevation Gain: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,310m (14,140ft) and back, Hiking Distance: 5km (3mi), Hiking Time: 3–4 hours, Habitat: Moorland.
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Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,703m/15,430ft)
The trail continues through the sparse alpine desert, passing the Saddle, a vast barren stretch between Kibo and Mawenzi. The air is noticeably thinner as you reach Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit push. You’ll have an early dinner and rest before the midnight ascent. Elevation Gain: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft), Hiking Distance: 9km (5.5mi), Hiking Time: 5–6 hours, Habitat: Alpine Desert.
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Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) to Horombo Hut
Your summit attempt begins at midnight, ascending steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft). From here, a final push leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, you’ll descend via Kibo Hut and continue down to Horombo Hut for the night. Elevation Gain: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft), then down to 3,720m (12,205ft), Hiking Distance: 6km (3.5mi) up / 15km (9mi) down, Hiking Time: 10–14 hours, Habitat: Arctic (Summit) → Alpine Desert → Moorland.
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Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860m/6,102ft)
The final descent takes you back through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. After celebrating your successful Kilimanjaro climb, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Elevation Loss: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,860m (6,102ft), Hiking Distance: 20km (12.5mi), Hiking Time: 5–7 hours, Habitat: Moorland → Rainforest.
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Accommodation
Hotel in Arusha or Moshi
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Departure
Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.
Trip Includes
- Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
- Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
- Airport Transfers
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Meals according to the itinerary
- All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
- Gate Transfers
Trip Does Not Includes
- Flights
- Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendations
- Visa fees
- Medication
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
- Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
- Gamow Bag
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