Kilimanjaro Classic Summit – 8 Days Marangu Route
Kilimanjaro Marangu Gate National Park Office, Tanzania
0/5
0% of guests recommend
Duration
5 Days
Tour Type
Climbing & Trekking
Group Size
20 persons
Location
Kilimanjaro
Overview
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most iconic paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its comfortable hut accommodations and gradual ascent, this 8-day journey offers an excellent balance between adventure and acclimatization. From lush rainforest trails to alpine desert landscapes and the breathtaking glaciers near Uhuru Peak, this trek delivers a complete Kilimanjaro experience guided by experienced mountain professionals.
Included/Excluded
Pick-up and return transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
2 nights at the hotel in Moshi (before and after the ascent)
Breakfast is included in the hotel
Group transportation to and from Moshi to Marangu gate
Kilimanjaro National Park Permits
Camping / hut fees
Mountain rescue fees
Salaries for guides / carriers
All meals on the mountain
International flights to and from Tanzania
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Hard and soft drinks during and before the trip
Tips for the guide
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi – Tanzania
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi – Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or transfer from Arusha, you will be welcomed and driven to Moshi town. Meet your trekking guide for a detailed briefing and equipment check as you prepare for the climb ahead.
Overnight: Ameg Lodge (or similar)
Day 2: Moshi ➝ Marangu Gate ➝ Mandara Hut
Day 2: Moshi ➝ Marangu Gate ➝ Mandara Hut
After breakfast, drive from Moshi (915m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m) for registration procedures. Begin your trek through dense rainforest, home to unique flora and birdlife, before reaching Mandara Hut (2,740m).
Distance: 11 km
Elevation Gain: +840m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Mandara Hut
Day 3: Mandara Hut ➝ Horombo Hut
Day 3: Mandara Hut ➝ Horombo Hut
Leave the forest zone behind as the trail gradually opens into heath and moorland scenery with wide views of Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at Horombo Hut (3,690m), where you can relax and acclimatize.
Distance: 10 km
Elevation Gain: +950m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 4: Acclimatization Day – Horombo Hut
Day 4: Acclimatization Day – Horombo Hut
A dedicated acclimatization day improves your chances of reaching the summit. Optional hikes to Zebra Rocks or towards Mawenzi Hut allow your body to adjust to the altitude while enjoying spectacular landscapes.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut ➝ Kibo Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut ➝ Kibo Hut
Trek across the alpine desert known as the Saddle, a vast high-altitude plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Reach Kibo Hut (4,695m), the final base before your summit attempt. Early dinner and rest are essential.
Distance: 10 km
Elevation Gain: +1,005m
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak ➝ Horombo Hut
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak ➝ Horombo Hut
Around midnight, begin your summit ascent. Climb steadily to Gilman’s Point (5,681m), then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Kibo Hut briefly before continuing down to Horombo Hut.
Route: 6 km ascent / 15 km descent
Elevation Change: +1,200m / –2,205m
Duration: 10–14 hours total
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut ➝ Marangu Gate ➝ Moshi
Day 7: Horombo Hut ➝ Marangu Gate ➝ Moshi
Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,830m). Receive your summit certificates before transferring back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebratory dinner.
Distance: 11 km
Descent: –1,865m
Hiking Time: Approx. 6 hours
Overnight: Ameg Lodge (or similar)
Day 8: Departure
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Travel Styles
Cultural
Nature & Adventure
FAQs
Is the Marangu Route suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is considered one of the more gradual routes with hut accommodation, making it popular for first-time high-altitude trekkers with good fitness levels.
What makes this 8-day itinerary special?
The extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut increases comfort and helps improve summit success rates.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No technical mountaineering experience is required, but preparation, stamina, and determination are important.
What type of accommodation is provided on the mountain?
Trekkers stay in shared mountain huts equipped with basic facilities instead of camping.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
Generally during the dry seasons: January–March and June–October.
How cold does it get?
Temperatures vary from warm rainforest conditions to freezing temperatures near the summit, especially at night.
Will guides and porters be included?
Yes, professional guides, porters, and cooks typically accompany climbers to ensure safety and comfort.
Tour Location
Kilimanjaro Marangu Gate National Park Office, Tanzania
Reviews
0/5
Not Rated
Based on
0 review
Excellent
0
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
No Review
Alute safaris
Member Since Jan 2026
12%
from
$2,500.00
$2,200.00
{{start_date_html}}
{{type.desc}}
{{type.display_price}} per person
Extra prices:
({{type.price_type}})
{{type.price_html}}
({{type.price_type}})
{{ type.price }}%
{{ formatMoney(type.price) }}
- {{total_price_html}}
- {{pay_now_price_html}}
You might also like
12%
from
$2,500.00
$2,200.00
