Tour Price
Prices are based on two adults sharing. Solo travelers and private groups, please contact us for a personalized quote.
Trip Info
Overview
The Marangu route, famously known as the “Coca-Cola” route as you can get a bottle of Coca-Cola at each hut, is the original route established to climb Kilimanjaro. It is often billed as one of the easier walking routes – however, according to KINAPA it suffers from the lowest success rate (42%) as too many climbers try to do it in only 5 days and fail because of poor acclimatization. Approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast, the Marangu route uses the same ascent and descent route which means it is less scenic than the other routes.
For climbers who do not wish to camp, then Marangu is the only route that offers dormitory-style hut accommodation. The huts have a communal dining room, simple washrooms and toilets which lower down will be flushable, but as you move higher up the mountain will be “long drop” loos. Although some climbers like the idea of staying in the huts rather than camping you need to remember that on the Marangu route you will be sharing the hut with lots of other climbers in open dormitory accommodation. The hut accommodation also means the Marangu route is one of the best routes to make the attempt on Kilimanjaro during the rainy season.
The Marangu route is a good six day hike for those who have not trekked much at high altitudes, with an effective extra day’s acclimatization, giving a better success rate. Experienced and already acclimatized mountaineers may opt for the more difficult 5 day ascent along the Marangu route.
Destinations:
Itinerary Highligts
Day 1: Marangu Gate - Mandara Hut
Day 2: Mandara Hut - Horombo Hut
Day 3: Acclimatization Day At Horombo
Day 4: Horombo Hut - Kibo Hut
Day 5: Kibo Hut - Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate - Mandara Hut
Departing from Moshi a 60-minute drive will take you through the Village of Marangu to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead enjoy the beautiful rainforest scenery and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and quite slippery. We highly recommend proper rain gear and trekking poles. We will spend our first night at Mandara Hut, a group of wooden A-framed huts set in a forest clearing
- Transport: Private transfer (1 hour, 40 km)
- Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours (7 km)
- Ascent: 720 m
- altitude: 2700 m
- Accommodation: Hut
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 2: Mandara Hut - Horombo Hut
After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, we emerge from the rainforest and continue on an ascending path, through heath land, looking for giant lobelias and groundsels. Continue up into open moorlands where small shrubs are the main vegetation. Stop halfway for lunch, to enjoy amazing views of Mawenzi. Arrive at the Horombo Huts late afternoon beneath the spectacular Kibo Summit viewpoint. Temperatures begin to drop.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (11 km)
- Ascent: 1020 m
- altitude: 3720 m
- Accommodation: Hut
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Acclimatization Day At Horombo
You can spend a full day and a second night at Horombo. On this day, you can either rest at the huts or take a stroll up to the Mawenzi base camp then return to the Horombo Huts. This extra day will help your acclimatization, and further your understanding of the mountains weather and altitude. A hike towards Mawenzi, passing the Zebra Rocks on the way is strongly recommended for acclimatization.
- Hiking time: 2- 3 hours (2 km)
- Ascent: 300 m
- Descent: 300 m
- altitude: 4020 m
- Accommodation: Hut
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Horombo Hut - Kibo Hut
After breakfast, we continue through the dwindling heath land that blends into a moonscape as you enter the sweeping saddle connecting Mawenzi and Kibo. Here while we stop for lunch, and later when you cross this surprisingly large saddle, you can examine the summit climb up Kibo that you will be starting in just a few hours. The last place where water is available is at 4130m. From Kibo Hut, the summit is now a further 1195m of ascent. We will make our summit ascent tonight so we will have to go to bed early to get as much rest as possible.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (10 km)
- Ascent: 980 m
- altitude: 4700 m
- Accommodation: Hut
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Kibo Hut - Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut
Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. We continue our way to the summit in a switchback formation trying to stay warm and focused on the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion, we ascend through heavy scree and possibly snow toward Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way. Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa! Later we shall descend our way back to Kibo have breakfast then head towards Horombo.
- Hiking time: 12 – 14 hours (17 km)
- Ascent: 1195 m
- Descent: 2175 m
- altitude: 5895 m
- Accommodation: Hut
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6: Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here. You return back to the Marangu Park Gate and receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy, and steep and we highly recommend gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 60 minutes).
- Transport: Private transfer (1 hour, 40 km)
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (18 km)
- Descent: 1740 m
- altitude: 3720 m
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Departure
You will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to the airport to catch up your flight back home.
- Meals: Breakfast
Note: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee.
Good To Know
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure open to anyone with determination and a reasonable level of fitness, regardless of prior mountaineering experience. From seasoned trekkers seeking their next challenge to first-time climbers eager to push their limits, this journey welcomes adventurers from all walks of life. With various routes tailored to different skill levels and timeframes, Kilimanjaro offers something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner. The key to success lies in proper preparation, including physical training, mental resilience, and acclimatization to altitude. Families, solo travelers, and even groups celebrating milestones often embark on this life-changing journey, supported by expert guides who ensure safety and an unforgettable experience.
Includes
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Mountain crew (cook, summit porter& porters)
- Overnight stays in tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, chairs )
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water, tea & coffee
- Oxygen tank and oximeters
- All national park fees
- Transfer from the hotel to the National Park gate and back
Excludes
- International or Local Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Gallery
Most Frequently Asked Questions
There are seven main routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit, and Umbwe. Each route varies in difficulty, scenery, and duration. The Marangu Route is known as the "Coca-Cola" route and is the only one offering hut accommodations, while the Machame Route, also called the "Whiskey" route, is popular for its diverse and scenic paths. The Lemosho and Shira routes offer beautiful vistas and lower traffic, making them ideal for those seeking a more solitary experience. Rongai is the only route starting from the north, and the Northern Circuit is the longest route, offering the most acclimatization time. Umbwe is the steepest and most challenging route, recommended for experienced climbers.
The duration of the climb depends on the route chosen. Typically, it takes between 5 to 10 days to reach the summit and descend. For instance, the Marangu Route can be completed in 5-6 days, while the Lemosho Route generally takes 7-8 days. The Northern Circuit, being the longest, can take 9-10 days. Additional acclimatization days can improve summit success rates and overall experience.
The best times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons: from January to early March and from June to October. These periods offer the best weather conditions, with less rain and clearer skies. Climbing during the wet seasons, from April to May and November to December, can be more challenging due to muddy trails and poor visibility.
No technical climbing skills are required to climb Kilimanjaro. It is a non-technical trek, meaning no ropes or special equipment are needed. However, it is a physically demanding hike due to the high altitude and varying terrain. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential for a successful climb.
Accommodations on Kilimanjaro vary by route. The Marangu Route offers hut accommodations with basic facilities such as beds, mattresses, and communal dining areas. Other routes, such as Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai, require camping in tents. Porters carry the camping equipment and set up the tents at designated campsites.
Physical preparation is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb. It is recommended to start training at least 2-3 months before the climb. Focus on aerobic exercises such as hiking, running, and cycling to build endurance. Strength training for legs, core, and upper body will also be beneficial. Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate the conditions on the mountain.
Packing for Kilimanjaro requires careful consideration of the weather and terrain. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, and a headlamp. Other important items are sun protection, a first aid kit, hydration systems, and high-energy snacks. A detailed packing list is usually provided by tour operators.
Yes, altitude sickness is common on Kilimanjaro due to the rapid ascent to high altitudes. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization, such as following the "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) approach, staying hydrated, and taking acclimatization days, can help mitigate the effects. Some climbers may also take medication like Diamox to prevent altitude sickness.
Yes, it is mandatory to climb Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide and porters. The Tanzanian government requires all climbers to be accompanied by a registered tour operator. Guides are experienced in navigation, first aid, and handling altitude-related issues, ensuring the safety and success of your climb.
The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro can vary widely depending on the route, duration, and tour operator. On average, expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 per person. This cost typically includes park fees, guide and porter fees, food, and accommodations. Additional expenses may include flights, gear, tips, and personal expenses.
Summit success rates vary by route and individual preparation. On average, the overall success rate for reaching the summit is around 65-75%. Routes that allow for more acclimatization days, such as Lemosho and Northern Circuit, generally have higher success rates, often exceeding 85%.
The food provided on Kilimanjaro is typically high in carbohydrates and calories to meet the energy demands of the climb. Meals often include porridge, bread, fruits, vegetables, pasta, rice, and meat. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with prior notice. Hydration is also crucial, and climbers are encouraged to drink plenty of water and hot beverages like tea.
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