Overview: 7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only Kilimanjaro trail that offers hut accommodations instead of tents. This 7-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, significantly increasing your chances of reaching the summit. The route is ideal for those who prefer a more gradual ascent and comfortable sleeping arrangements.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha or Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for pre-climb briefing and gear check. Overnight at a lodge or hotel.
Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
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Elevation: 1,860 m to 2,700 m
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Distance: ~8 km / 5 miles
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Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Depart from your hotel and drive to Marangu Gate for registration. Begin trekking through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut. Possible short hike to Maundi Crater in the afternoon.
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
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Elevation: 2,700 m to 3,720 m
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Distance: ~12 km / 7.5 miles
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Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Hike through heath and moorland zones with scenic views of Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
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Take a short hike to Zebra Rocks (about 4,000 m) or Mawenzi Ridge.
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This extra day aids acclimatization and improves summit success rates.
Return to Horombo Hut for a second night.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
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Elevation: 3,720 m to 4,700 m
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Distance: ~10 km / 6 miles
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Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Cross alpine desert as you ascend to Kibo Hut, located at the base of the summit path. Early dinner and rest before midnight ascent.
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then down to Horombo Hut
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Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak), then descend to 3,720 m
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Distance: ~6 km up / 16 km down
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Hiking Time: 12–16 hours total
Start the trek to the summit at midnight. Reach Gillman’s Point (5,685 m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. After photos and a short rest, descend back to Horombo Hut for overnight.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Arusha/Moshi
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Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,860 m
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Distance: ~20 km / 12.5 miles
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Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for a well-earned rest.
