6 Days Marangu Route
Overview
The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular routes for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. This route is favored for its gradual ascent, well-defined paths, and comfortable hut accommodations, making it accessible for trekkers of varying experience levels. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, culminating in the awe-inspiring summit of Uhuru Peak.
Why you should choose Kilimanjaro 6 Days Marangu Route?
The Kilimanjaro 6-Day Marangu Route offers a balanced mix of accessibility, comfort, and stunning scenery. With gradual ascents, diverse landscapes, hut accommodations, and well-structured acclimatization, it’s ideal for trekkers of varying experience levels. The journey provides a rich cultural experience and ensures a safe, memorable adventure to the summit of Africa’s highest peak.
Climbing Kilimanjaro with Great Time Experience Adventures
Great Time Experience Adventures ensures a professional, well-organized trek with experienced guides, comfortable hut accommodations, and personalized service. You’ll enjoy diverse landscapes, effective acclimatization, and cultural enrichment. The company’s commitment to sustainability and conservation enhances your adventure, making it safe, memorable, and environmentally responsible.
Price per person
1 person | 2-5 persons | 6-10 persons | 11+ persons |
USD 2100 | USD 1850 | USD 1700 | USD 1600 |
Per person | Per person | Per person | Per person |
Tour plan
Day 1: Arrive in Moshi.
Arrival: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Our dedicated representative will be eagerly waiting for you at the airport, holding a sign with your name on it, ready to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome.
Transfer: From the airport, a seamless and comfortable transfer service will whisk you away to our enchanting hotel.
Check-In and Meal: Upon arrival at the hotel, you will check in and be served a delicious meal to help you relax and recharge.
Briefing: Later in the day, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will provide a pre-trekking briefing. This exciting session will cover essential information and give you a glimpse of the wonders that await you on your upcoming expedition. During the briefing, there will be an equipment check to ensure that you have everything needed to make your climb comfortable and safe. Should you require any equipment, it can be rented locally at a fair price and is of good quality.
Please note that if your arrival is at night, the briefing and equipment check may be conducted early the next morning instead. This ensures that you are well-prepared and fully equipped before starting your adventure.
Overnight: Stay at the hotel and get a good night’s rest before the adventure begins.
Day 2: Moshi to Mandara Hut.
Elevation: 1,830 m (6,004 ft) to 2,700 m (8,858 ft)
Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Terrain: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
After breakfast, you’ll depart from Moshi for a scenic 1-hour drive to the Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you will complete the necessary registration formalities. With the paperwork out of the way, your trek begins through the lush, verdant rainforest. The trail to Mandara Hut is a steady uphill hike, offering the opportunity to spot monkeys and other fascinating wildlife along the way. Upon arrival at Mandara Hut, you’ll be welcomed with a warm meal and accommodation in comfortable A-frame huts. In the evening, you have the option to embark on a short acclimatization hike to Maundi Crater. This optional hike provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and helps your body adjust to the altitude, setting you up for success in the days ahead.
Overnight: Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2,700 m (8,858 ft) to 3,720 m (12,205 ft)
Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Terrain: Rainforest transitioning to moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Mandara Hut before setting off on your trek. The journey starts by continuing through the lush rainforest, where you may encounter unique flora and fauna. As you ascend, you’ll transition into the moorland zone, where the vegetation gradually changes, giving way to a more rugged and open landscape.
The 12 km (7.5 miles) trek to Horombo Hut takes about 5-6 hours and offers stunning views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks along the way. Take your time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and capture memorable photographs.
Upon arrival at Horombo Hut, you’ll be welcomed with a warm meal, providing much-needed nourishment and comfort. The accommodations at Horombo Hut consist of comfortable A-frame huts, allowing you to relax and acclimate to the higher altitude.
In the evening, your guide will conduct a briefing for the next day’s trek, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. This informative session will cover important details about the upcoming journey and provide valuable tips for a successful ascent.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) (Stay)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
To assist with acclimatization, you’ll spend an extra day at Horombo Hut, allowing your body more time to adjust to the increasing altitude. This day is crucial in helping you prepare for the higher elevations ahead and reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
During this day, you have two options:
Rest and Relaxation: Stay at the camp to rest and recover, enjoying the serene surroundings and the comfort of Horombo Hut.
Acclimatization Hike: Embark on a short acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks, a striking geological feature located at 3,980 meters (13,058 feet) above sea level. This hike not only offers stunning views but also helps your body acclimate to the higher altitude.
After returning to camp, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal, providing the energy needed for the next day’s trek. In the evening, your guide will review the plans for the upcoming ascent, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) to 4,703 m (15,430 ft)
Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Terrain: Expansive lunar desert known as the “Saddle”
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
After breakfast at Horombo Hut, you’ll begin your trek across the expansive lunar desert known as the “Saddle.” This barren and rugged landscape stretches between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, providing a stark contrast to the lush rainforest and moorland zones you’ve previously traversed. The views of the towering peaks on either side are awe-inspiring, and the sense of vastness is humbling.
The hike will take approximately 6-8 hours, allowing you ample time to take in the scenery and acclimate to the higher altitude. It’s important to maintain a steady pace and stay hydrated during this portion of the trek.
Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll settle in for an early dinner and rest. The accommodations at Kibo Hut are basic but provide the necessary shelter for a good night’s rest. Conserving your energy is crucial, as the summit attempt will begin just before midnight.
In the evening, your guide will provide a detailed briefing to prepare you for the final ascent. This session will cover essential information about the night climb, safety tips, and what to expect during the summit push. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any last-minute questions and ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
Overnight: Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4,700 m (15,430 ft) to 5,895 m (19,341 ft) and down to 3,720 m (12,205 ft)
Hiking Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 8-12 hours
Terrain: Varies (including high-altitude desert and rocky terrain)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Around midnight, you’ll be awakened to begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak. The journey to Gillman’s Point, at 5,685 meters (18,652 feet), is steep and strenuous, typically taking around six hours of steady climbing. This challenging section will test your endurance, but your guide will offer support and encouragement along the way.
Once you reach Gillman’s Point, you’ll take a brief rest before continuing to traverse the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The trek from Gillman’s Point to Uhuru Peak is less steep but still demanding due to the high altitude. If the weather cooperates, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the continent, making all the effort worthwhile.
After celebrating your incredible achievement at the summit and taking in the stunning views, you’ll begin your descent to Kibo Hut. Here, you’ll have a short rest and enjoy a well-deserved meal. Once you’ve regained some energy, you’ll continue the descent to Horombo Hut, where you will spend the night.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate/Return to Moshi
- Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) to 1,870 m (6,135 ft)
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
After breakfast, you’ll start your descent through the diverse moorland and lush rainforest zones, making your way back to Marangu Gate. As you trek downward, take in the final views of the landscape and reflect on your accomplishment.
Upon reaching the gate, the Great Time Experience (GTE) team will be waiting to celebrate your achievement with a medal ceremony. Afterward, you will receive your summit certificate from the government. We will continue celebrating and take photos with the GTE team before being transferred to your hotel in Moshi. There, a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await you.After taking a short rest, join us in the evening for a brief celebration where we’ll present you with an award from our company to commemorate your achievement and say our goodbyes. If you’re interested in extending your adventure, you can meet with our safari coordinator to explore options like a thrilling wildlife safari or a relaxing beach getaway in Zanzibar. Additionally, we offer various day trips to nearby attractions, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the local culture and natural beauty of the region.
Overnight: Rest at the hotel and get a good night’s sleep before your departure.
Day 8: Departure from Moshi
Activity: Relax and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, explore Moshi town or visit local markets before heading to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure
Kindly note: If you wish to extend your adventure, consider adding a day trip to your itinerary. You can explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in local culture for a truly enriching experience. For more details, we invite you to visit our Day Trip page.
Alternatively, you can continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches or wish to delve into the island’s rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Discover the perfect package for your next excursion by exploring our Zanzibar page.
If you’re interested in adding a safari experience, please visit our Safari page. Here you will find detailed information on our exciting safari options, allowing you to further extend your adventure with a thrilling wildlife experience.
Additionally, our team is always available to help customize your extended itinerary, ensuring you have the most memorable and enjoyable experience possible.
Price Included:
- Qualified guides with mountain crew
- National Park fees
- Hut/camping fees and tents
- Tents foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and (Cutlery / Crockery) eating utensils.
- Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
- Pulse oximeters
- First aid kit
- Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
- Boiled water on the mountain
- Airport transfers (JRO – Kilimanjaro International Airports)
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Not Excluded:
- Single rooms supplement.
- Guides, Porters, Cook & Waiters tips
- Meals and drinks not specified
- Mountain equipment (eg sleeping bags)
- Gear for your climb, some equipment is available for rent.
- Car Supplement USD$145 per car for clients who go through Lemosho/Rongai/Shira Routes
- Items of personal nature (expenses)
- Emergency Oxygen
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
