The 7-day Marangu Route offers a classic and steady approach to conquering Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it is the only route that provides comfortable sleeping huts equipped with solar power and beds, making it a preferred option for those seeking a less rugged experience. The trail begins in the lush rainforest at Marangu Gate, ascends through heather and moorland zones, and crosses the stark alpine desert before reaching the glacier-covered summit of Uhuru Peak. The added acclimatization day at Horombo Hut greatly improves success rates by giving your body time to adjust to the altitude. Along the way, climbers enjoy diverse scenery, panoramic views, and the unique chance to summit and descend using the same trail. This route is perfect for first-time trekkers looking for a well-established path with moderate difficulty, scenic beauty, and a higher level of comfort compared to camping routes.
7 DAYS MARANGU ROUTE
TOUR OVERVIEW
7 Days Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro Climb Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Distance: ~8 km | Time: 4–5 hours
Climate: Rainforest – humid and warm
Acclimatization: First gradual altitude gain
Terrain: Dense forest trails with gentle inclines
Begin your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and vibrant birds. Overnight in Mandara huts.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: ~12 km | Time: 6–8 hours
Climate: Transition from rainforest to moorland – cooler, breezy
Acclimatization: Significant gain; pace is essential
Terrain: Open moorland with giant heathers and volcanic rock
Enjoy wide views as you climb past Maundi Crater and continue toward Horombo with views of Mawenzi Peak. Overnight in Horombo huts.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
Distance: Optional 5–8 km to Zebra Rocks (3,980m)
Climate: Cool and dry
Acclimatization: Crucial day for adjusting to altitude
Terrain: Rocky slopes with sparse vegetation
A short hike to Zebra Rocks enhances acclimatization. Return to Horombo for rest and prep for higher altitude.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Distance: ~10 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Climate: Alpine desert – dry, windy, colder
Acclimatization: Slow pace helps avoid altitude sickness
Terrain: Barren, rocky paths with little vegetation
Trek through a moonscape passing the “Last Water Point.” Arrive at Kibo for an early dinner and summit briefing.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut
Distance: ~6 km up + 15 km down | Time: 12–16 hours
Climate: Arctic at the summit – freezing temps, wind
Acclimatization: Challenging ascent – steady rhythm needed
Terrain: Steep switchbacks on loose scree to crater rim, then snowy paths to summit
Start at midnight and reach Gilman’s Point, then Uhuru Peak for sunrise. Celebrate and descend to Horombo for a well-earned rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Distance: ~20 km | Time: 6–7 hours
Climate: Warmer as you descend into rainforest
Acclimatization: No longer needed – rapid descent
Terrain: Forest trails, possibly muddy
Descend through moorland and back to the forest. At the gate, receive your certificate and say goodbye to the crew. Transfer to hotel.
Day 7: Departure / Optional Extension
Distance: N/A
Climate: Depends on your post-climb destination
Acclimatization: N/A
Terrain: N/A
Relax at your hotel or head to Kilimanjaro Airport. Optional extensions include safari adventures or a Zanzibar beach holiday.
After breakfast, depart for Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha for your onward travel. Your unforgettable safari adventure ends here.
Brown Parrot Safaris wishes you a safe journey and looks forward to welcoming you again in the future bring your family and friends next time!
Safari Inclusions
- All park fees and rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
- Accommodation in mountain huts or tents during the trek
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Purified drinking water throughout the trek
- Transfers to and from the park gate
- Government taxes and VAT
- Airport transfers (on request)
- Pre-climb briefing and equipment check
Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzanian visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook (highly recommended)
- Personal trekking gear (clothing, boots, sleeping bags, etc.)
- Hotel accommodation before/after the climb (unless booked with us)
- Additional snacks, drinks, or meals outside of the trek
- Optional activities not part of the trekking itinerary
START YOUR KILI TREKKING TODAY
Your trekking adventure begins the moment you choose Brown Parrot Safaris. Whether you're aiming to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, hike through the dramatic landscapes of Tanzania, or witness the changing ecosystems along the way, we're here to guide your journey. With experienced mountain guides, personalized trekking plans, and dependable support, we ensure your climb is safe, rewarding, and unforgettable. Don’t wait lace up your boots and start your trekking journey of a lifetime today!
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