5 & 6 Marangu Route ("Coca-Cola Route")
The Marangu Route, affectionately known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and most traditional path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for its well-established trail, hut accommodations, and relatively straightforward path, it offers a comfortable and popular option for climbers seeking a classic Kilimanjaro experience.
This route is suitable for those with limited time, with the climb typically completed in either 5 or 6 days. The 6-day itinerary provides a better pace for acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful summit, while the 5-day schedule is for fitter trekkers looking for a quicker ascent.
Hikers will journey through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine desert zones, all the way to the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak. The Marangu Route’s overnight stays in mountain huts rather than tents appeal to climbers seeking a less rugged experience without compromising the adventure.
Whether you choose 5 or 6 days, the Marangu Route delivers a traditional and well-supported Kilimanjaro climb with iconic views and the excitement of reaching Africa’s highest peak.
5-Days Marangu Route ("Coca-Cola Route")
Tour Overview:
The 5-day Marangu Route is the shortest itinerary to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route” due to its hut accommodations and relative comfort, it’s a popular option for trekkers seeking a direct yet scenic ascent. Though shorter and more affordable, this version does not include an acclimatization day, making it more physically demanding. Hikers pass through diverse climate zones—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating at the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
About this tour
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights on the mountain
Live Tour Guide: Professional, English-speaking safari guide
(Other languages available on request: French, Spanish, German, etc.)
Start & End Location: Arusha ~ Arusha
Day by day
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Your adventure begins with a drive from Arusha or Moshi to Marangu Gate (1,860m), where registration and preparations take place. The trek starts through lush rainforest, where you may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys and exotic birds. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Mandara Hut (2,700m). In the afternoon, take a short walk to Maundi Crater for panoramic views before returning for dinner and overnight in wooden A-frame huts.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Mandara Hut (shared dormitory-style huts)
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
After breakfast, you’ll ascend through the moorland zone, where the dense forest gives way to open heath and giant heathers. Enjoy views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks as you trek for about 6–7 hours to Horombo Hut (3,720m). You'll arrive in time to rest, enjoy the mountain air, and prepare for acclimatization.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (shared dormitory-style huts)
Day 3: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Today’s hike moves into the alpine desert zone. You’ll follow the trail across the "Saddle," a barren expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The hike is long but gradual, taking about 5–6 hours. Arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700m) by mid-afternoon. Rest early and prepare for the midnight summit push.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (basic alpine hut with bunk beds)
Day 4: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut
At around midnight, you’ll begin the challenging trek to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb is steep and cold, passing Gilman’s Point (5,685m) and Stella Point (5,756m) before reaching the highest point in Africa: Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After taking in the sunrise and summit views, descend back to Kibo for brunch, then continue to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest. Total trekking time for the day is 12–14 hours.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Return to Arusha/Moshi
After breakfast, descend through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive a certificate of achievement. A vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. The descent takes about 5–6 hours.Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged on request)
- Included in the Package
- Park entry and hut fees
- Kilimanjaro rescue fees
- Accommodation in mountain huts (Mandara, Horombo, Kibo)
- Professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
- All meals during the climb
- Drinking water during the hike
- Transfer to/from the park gate
- Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit
- Excluded in the Package
Flights and airport transfers
Accommodation before/after the climb (available on request)
Travel insurance and visa fees
Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Snacks, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks
Personal expenses
6-Days Marangu Route ("Coca-Cola Route")
Tour Overview:
The 6-day Marangu Route offers a classic and scenic trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. As the only route with hut accommodations, it’s a popular choice for climbers seeking a more comfortable ascent. Traversing rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert before reaching the icy summit of Uhuru Peak, this route provides diverse landscapes and a gradual incline that supports acclimatization. A day is added at Horombo Hut for acclimatization, improving summit success rates. Ideal for trekkers who prefer established paths and hut stays over camping.
About this tour
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights on the mountain
Live Tour Guide: Professional, English-speaking safari guide
(Other languages available on request: French, Spanish, German, etc.)
Start & End Location: Arusha ~ Arusha
Day by day
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Your adventure begins with a drive from Arusha or Moshi to Marangu Gate (1,860m), where registration and preparations take place. The trek starts through lush rainforest, where you may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys and exotic birds. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Mandara Hut (2,700m). In the afternoon, take a short walk to Maundi Crater for panoramic views before returning for dinner and overnight in wooden A-frame huts.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Mandara Hut (shared dormitory-style huts)
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
After breakfast, you’ll ascend through the moorland zone, where the dense forest gives way to open heath and giant heathers. Enjoy views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks as you trek for about 6–7 hours to Horombo Hut (3,720m). You'll arrive in time to rest, enjoy the mountain air, and prepare for acclimatization.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (shared dormitory-style huts)
Day 3: Acclimatization at Horombo Hut
This day is dedicated to acclimatization, which is critical for a successful summit attempt. After breakfast, you’ll take a short hike toward Zebra Rocks (4,020m), named for their black-and-white volcanic streaks. After enjoying the views and acclimatizing at a higher altitude, return to Horombo for lunch, relaxation, and a second night at the hut.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Today’s hike moves into the alpine desert zone. You’ll follow the trail across the "Saddle," a barren expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The hike is long but gradual, taking about 5–6 hours. Arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700m) by mid-afternoon. Rest early and prepare for the midnight summit push.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (basic alpine hut with bunk beds)
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut
At around midnight, you’ll begin the challenging trek to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The climb is steep and cold, passing Gilman’s Point (5,685m) and Stella Point (5,756m) before reaching the highest point in Africa: Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After taking in the sunrise and summit views, descend back to Kibo for brunch, then continue to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest. Total trekking time for the day is 12–14 hours.
Accommodation
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Return to Arusha/Moshi
After breakfast, descend through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive a certificate of achievement. A vehicle will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. The descent takes about 5–6 hours.Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged on request)
- Included in the Package
- Park entry and hut fees
- Kilimanjaro rescue fees
- Accommodation in mountain huts (Mandara, Horombo, Kibo)
- Professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
- All meals during the climb
- Drinking water during the hike
- Transfer to/from the park gate
- Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit
- Excluded in the Package
Flights and airport transfers
Accommodation before/after the climb (available on request)
Travel insurance and visa fees
Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Snacks, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks
Personal expenses