Aghakhan Road
1 Day
Mountain & Adventure
21 persons
Kilimanjaro
TOUR OVERVIEW
The 6-day Marangu route is one of the most popular trekking options for those looking to reach the summit of Africa’s highest peak. Commonly referred to as the Coca-Cola route, many climbers favour it because it offers a shorter trekking duration than other routes and features comfortable overnight stays in permanent huts at the designated campsites.
This six-day Marangu route takes trekkers through diverse landscapes, from the lush rainforest at the base to the alpine desert near Kibo Hut and the arctic conditions at the summit. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak begins from Kibo Hut, passing through Gilman’s Point, which offers breathtaking views before reaching the mountain's highest point. The 6-day Mount Kilimanjaro climb via the Marangu route allows less time for acclimatization, which may lead to a lower summit success rate compared to longer routes.
-Distance: 8 km
-Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
-Habitat: Rain Forest
After breakfast, we head to the National Park gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The trail climbs through a tropical rainforest near the upper edge of the forest line (keep an eye out for blue monkeys). The trail then widens to reveal beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
-Elevation: 2700m to 3700m
-Distance: 12 km
-Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
-Habitat: Health.
Our second day on the trail begins with a steep yet non-technical ascent through the forest, eventually opening into high moorland. If the weather permits, we may catch our first glimpses of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, two of the three volcanic summits that comprise the highest point, Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: Horombo Hut
-Elevation: 2700m to 3700m
-Distance: 10 km
-Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
-Habitat: Health.
This extra day allows for acclimatization and can be spent hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers inspiring views of Kibo Mawenzi.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 3700m to 4700m
-Distance: 10 km
-Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
-Habitat: Alpine Desert.
Today, we climb gradually and then cross the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach our campsite located at the base of the Kibo crater wall. Once we arrive at camp, we rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next day.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
-Elevation: 4700m to 5895m to 3700m
-Distance: 22 km
-Hiking Time: 10-13 hours
-Habitat: Arctic
Leaving very early in the morning (around midnight), we continue our journey to the summit, hoping to catch the sunrise. The trail consists of a series of switchbacks up a steep scree slope, with climbers extending into the darkness, visible only by headlamps. Focusing on breathing and foot placement is essential. The views from the summit are dramatic and immense. After spending a few moments appreciating the plains of Africa and your accomplishments, we descend to Horombo Hut.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
-Elevation: 3700 to 1860m
-Distance: 20 km
-Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
-Habitat: Rain Forest.
Today, we will embark on a long, mostly downhill trek. Once we reach the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, we will pick up our certificates proving our achievement. Then, we will transfer to the hotel for a celebration. This marks the end of your six-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Marangu route.
Depart Tanzania.
The day is left open to unwind after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times, you can explore Moshi town and pick up some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
*Safari, Zanzibar, and other add-ons are available to continue exploring Tanzania.