The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for being the only route that offers overnight stays in mountain huts instead of tents, it provides added comfort and is particularly favorable during the rainy season.
This classic Kilimanjaro route follows a well-established, scenic trail that passes through all of the mountain’s major ecological zones—from lush tropical rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and the breathtaking glaciers near the summit. Its gentle gradients and well-trodden paths make it appealing to many trekkers, including beginners.
Because Marangu is both popular and budget-friendly, it can become crowded during peak trekking months, especially from July to September and December to March.
While both 5-day and 6-day itineraries are available, the 6-day Marangu Route is highly recommended to allow better acclimatization, increasing your chances of a successful and enjoyable summit.
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later in the evening, your head mountain guide will join you for a comprehensive trek briefing, gear check, and final preparations for the climb.
Overnight in Moshi (Hotel).
Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration and permits. The trek begins on a well-maintained trail through lush tropical rainforest, home to blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and diverse birdlife. The path is steady and shaded, gradually ascending to Mandara Hut, located in a beautiful forest clearing.
Overnight at Mandara Hut.
Distance: 12 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail continues through forest before entering the heather and moorland zone, offering expansive views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You will pass the Maundi Crater viewpoint for spectacular panoramas over northern Tanzania and Kenya.
Arrive at Horombo Hut, perched on a broad plateau.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Optional Hike: Zebra Rocks (4,020m)
Habitat: Moorland / Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
A full day dedicated to acclimatization, significantly improving your chances of a successful summit. After breakfast, you will take a short acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks, a volcanic formation with striking black-and-white streaks.
Return to Horombo Hut for relaxation and an early night.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trail gradually climbs through the sparse high-alpine desert, crossing the famous Saddle—a vast desert-like expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo. The landscape becomes barren and silent as you approach Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt.
Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the midnight climb.
Overnight at Kibo Hut.
Distance: 22 km | Hiking Time: 10–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic → Alpine Desert → Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Your summit push begins around midnight. Follow the steep zigzag trail up loose volcanic scree toward Gilman’s Point (5,685m). From here, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for dinner and a well-deserved sleep.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Distance: 20 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland → Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Descend through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to take you back to Moshi for a hot shower, rest, and celebration.
You will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight.
Alternatively, Auresta Tanzania Travel can arrange unforgettable safari extensions to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, or a relaxing beach escape in Zanzibar.
✅ 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (Bed & Breakfast)
✅ Private transport to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
✅ Qualified, professional mountain guides and full support crew
✅ All Kilimanjaro National Park fees (conservation, camping & crew fees)
✅ 18% VAT on all tour services
✅ All camping accommodations on the mountain
✅ High-quality, four-season mountain tents
✅ All ground transport to and from the trailhead
✅ Rescue fees as required by the park authority
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
✅ Guide and porter accommodations plus their mountain entry fees
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit carried by the lead guide
✅ Emergency oxygen cylinder for altitude-related issues
✅ Sleeping mats and sleeping bags
✅ Treated, safe drinking water throughout the trek
✅ Fair wages for guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority
❌ International flights
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
❌ Private portable toilet (available for $120 per group)
❌ Laundry services