Itinerary Summary:
Our 6-day Marangu Route adventure is a popular choice for trekkers due to its straightforward and well-established trail, complemented by the comfort of overnight stays in huts throughout the journey. Also known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, this itinerary offers a relatively gradual ascent, providing ample opportunities for acclimatization and increasing the chance of a successful summit.
Full Itinerary:
Marangu Route 6 Days
Day 1: Arrive in Tanzania
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from Gosam Safari Tours LTD who will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for rest and preparation for the upcoming trek.
Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Altitude: 1,860 m to 2,700 m
- Distance: 8 km
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
The adventure begins as you head towards the Marangu Gate. After completing the necessary paperwork, you’ll embark on your trek through the lush rainforest to Mandara Hut. The terrain is relatively flat and serves as an excellent warm-up for the days ahead. After dinner at the hut, rest up for the next day’s hike.
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Altitude: 2,700 m to 3,720 m
- Distance: 12 km
- Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
From Mandara Hut, you ascend into the moorland zone, characterized by giant heather and volcanic rock. The path is steeper, and the environment becomes harsher, but the views are more striking. Your destination for the day is Horombo Hut.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
- Altitude: 3,720 m
This day is crucial for acclimatization. You’ll spend another night at Horombo Hut to adapt to the altitude. Optional hikes around the hut will be available for you to enjoy the surroundings and further assist with acclimatization.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Altitude: 3,720 m to 4,700 m
- Distance: 10 km
- Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
The trek continues upward into the barren landscapes of the alpine desert. You’ll navigate the trail leading to the saddle between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. After reaching Kibo Hut in the afternoon, have an early dinner and sleep to prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Day 6: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Altitude: 4,700 m to 5,895 m to 3,720 m
- Distance: 22 km
- Trekking Time: 12-15 hours
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. Under the glittering night sky, you’ll make the challenging trek up to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. From there, it’s a short distance to the highest point, Uhuru Peak. Take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking view of the sunrise over Africa from the roof of the continent. Afterwards, descend back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Arusha/Moshi
- Altitude: 3,720 m to 1,860 m
- Distance: 18 km
- Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, you will descend back through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Here, you’ll be awarded your certificate of achievement for reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Afterwards, a vehicle will be waiting for you to transport you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi.
Day 8: Departure
We will transfer you to the airport for your return flight, marking the end of your unforgettable journey with Gosam Safari Tours LTD.
