Difficulty:
Easy to Medium
Duration:
5 or 6 days
Scenery:
Good
Traffic:
High
Key Facts
Marangu Route, commonly known as the Coca Cola route is more popular because it can be done in fewer days and has permanent sleep huts at the campsites.
Summit night from Kibo Hut is steep and passes Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. It is a shorter route with a steeper incline and less time for acclimatisation it tends to have a lower summit success rate. This is the only route where the ascent and descent route is shared, thus creating more traffic.
DIRECT ROUTE WITH HUT ACCOMMODATION
The Marangu Route is the only Kilimanjaro route offering accommodation in mountain huts rather than tents. These basic but sheltered huts provide beds and shared dining areas, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more comfortable trekking experience.
WELL-ESTABLISHED AND STRAIGHTFORWARD PATH
As one of the oldest and most direct routes to the summit, Marangu follows a consistent and clearly defined path. Its steady ascent and descent along the same trail make it a familiar option for many guides and climbers.
SCENIC FOREST AND MOORLAND SECTIONS
Marangu passes through lush rainforest before opening up to moorland and alpine desert, offering a variety of landscapes along the way. While the route does not circle the mountain, it still provides striking views of the surrounding terrain and Mawenzi Peak.
SHORTER ITINERARY WITH LIMITED ACCLIMATISATION
With a shorter duration than other routes, Marangu offers less time for acclimatisation. This can make the climb more challenging for some, especially those new to high altitude. However, for experienced hikers or those with limited time, it remains a viable option.
ACCESSIBLE AND POPULAR OPTION
Marangu is often chosen for its relative comfort and accessibility, especially for climbers who prefer indoor shelter over tents. While its summit success rate is lower due to the quicker ascent, good preparation and fitness still lead many to a successful climb.
Select your itinerary
5 Day marangu
14th - 23rd August 2026
The shortest Kilimanjaro route to the summit, suited to experienced high-altitude trekkers with limited time. The 5-day Marangu itinerary offers minimal acclimatisation, making it a faster but more demanding option with a lower success rate.
Click here to book 5 DAY
6 Day marangu
2nd - 11th January 2026
A classic Kilimanjaro trek with an added acclimatisation day for improved summit chances. The 6-day Marangu itinerary follows a steady path with hut accommodation throughout, balancing comfort and challenge for those seeking a shorter yet supported climb.
Click here to book 6 DAY
Pre Climb
Arrival and briefing
Distance: 12 km
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Semi-desert
Upon landing in Tanzania you will come out of the airport and Uncharted Summits representatives will be waiting for you. The next 2 days is about relaxation and ensuring you start to focus on the start of your transformational journey up to the roof of Africa. We will have a full safety and mountain briefing, any final questions you may have or wish to ask and then its go time.
Day 1
Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts
Elevation: 1,905m to 2,723m
Distance: 8.3 km / 5 miles | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 1,905m to 2,723m
Distance: 8.3 km
Trek time: 4-5 hours
Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, depart Moshi for a 45-minute drive to Marangu Gate. Once permits are issued and entry formalities completed, begin the trek through lush rainforest. The trail is scenic but can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Along the way, your guide will point out local flora, fauna, and wildlife unique to the lower slopes. Reach Mandara Huts by mid-afternoon, where you’ll have time to rest and enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Day 2
Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts
Elevation: 2,723m to 3,721m
Distance: 12.5 km / 7.8 miles | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Elevation: 2,723m to 3,721m
Distance: 12.5 km
Trek time: 6–8 hours
Zone: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends steadily through heathland. You’ll pass through a landscape of giant lobelias, groundsels, and expansive moorland views. Midway through the trek, enjoy a break with panoramic views of Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at Horombo Huts in the late afternoon, situated beneath the imposing Kibo summit. Temperatures drop here, so ensure you have warm clothing for the night ahead.
Day 3
Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts
Elevation: 3,721m to 4,714m
Distance: 10.5 km / 6 miles | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Semi-desert
Elevation: 3,721m to 4,714m
Distance: 10.5 km
Trek time: 6–8 hours
Zone: Semi-desert
Today’s trek takes you through an increasingly stark landscape as you climb above the moorland into alpine desert. The path leads across the wide saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, where you'll pause for lunch. The views open up dramatically as you approach the base of Kibo, with the summit looming high above. Arrive at Kibo Huts by afternoon, rest, and prepare for your early morning summit attempt.
Day 4
Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Huts
Elevation: 4,714m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) | Descend to 3,721m
Distance: 6.25 km / 3.9 miles up | 15.75 km / 9 miles down | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours up | 5–6 hours down | Habitat: Arctic
Elevation: 4,714m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) | Descend to 3,721m
Distance: 6.25 km up 15.75 km down
Trek time: 5–7 hours up 5-6 hours down
Zone: Arctic
Wake at midnight for a light meal before beginning your summit push under starlight. Ascend steep switchbacks on scree and possibly snow to reach Gilman’s Point (5,861m) on the crater rim around sunrise. Continue for another 2 hours along the rim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the views and photos, descend carefully to Kibo Huts for rest and lunch before continuing back to Horombo Huts. This is the most physically and mentally demanding day of the trek, so move slowly and keep your spirits high.
Day 5
Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,721m to 1,905m
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 3,721m to 1,905m
Distance: 20 km
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, begin the final descent. Stop at Mandara Huts for lunch, then continue through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. The trail can be muddy and steep, especially in warmer, wetter conditions. Upon reaching the gate, receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to your mountain crew. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where a hot shower, hearty meal, and well-earned celebration await.
Post Climb
Celebration and departure
Distance: 12 km
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Semi-desert
Celebrate your incredible achievement! After a quiet, reflective bus ride and the best shower of your life, it’s time to come together, receive your summit certificates, and party the night away. The Uncharted Summits team will ensure smooth departures—whether you’re heading home or on to a safari or Zanzibar. Your transformational journey in Tanzania may be ending, but its impact continues long after you return home.
Uncharted Summits
Pre climb
Arrival in Tanzania
Distance: 12 km
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Semi-desert
Upon landing in Tanzania you will come out of the airport and Uncharted Summits representatives will be waiting for you. The next 2 days is about relaxation and ensuring you start to focus on the start of your transformational journey up to the roof of Africa. We will have a full safety and mountain briefing, any final questions you may have or wish to ask and then its go time.
Day 1
Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts
Elevation: 1,905m to 2,723m
Distance: 8.3 km / 5 miles | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 1,905m to 2,723m
Distance: 8.3 km
Trek time: 4-5 hours
Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, depart Moshi for a 45-minute drive to Marangu Gate. Once permits are issued and entry formalities completed, begin the trek through lush rainforest. The trail is scenic but can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Along the way, your guide will point out local flora, fauna, and wildlife unique to the lower slopes. Reach Mandara Huts by mid-afternoon, where you’ll have time to rest and enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Day 2
Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts
Elevation: 2,723m to 3,721m
Distance: 12.5 km / 7.8 miles | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Elevation: 2,723m to 3,721m
Distance: 12.5 km
Trek time: 6–8 hours
Zone: Moorland
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends steadily through heathland. You’ll pass through a landscape of giant lobelias, groundsels, and expansive moorland views. Midway through the trek, enjoy a break with panoramic views of Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at Horombo Huts in the late afternoon, situated beneath the imposing Kibo summit. Temperatures drop here, so ensure you have warm clothing for the night ahead.
Day 3
Horombo Huts Acclimatisation Day
Elevation: N/A
Distance: N/A
Elevation: N/A
Distance: N/A
Trek time: N/A
Zone: Horombo Huts
Spend a full day at Horombo Huts to aid acclimatisation. You may choose to rest at the huts or take a short acclimatisation hike toward Mawenzi Base Camp and return. This day is crucial for your adjustment to altitude and increases your chances of successfully reaching the summit. After your acclimatisation walk, relax and prepare for the trek to Kibo Huts the following day.
Day 4
Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts
Elevation: 3,721m to 4,714m
Distance: 10.5 km / 6 miles | Hiking Time: 6–8 hours | Habitat: Semi-desert
Elevation: 3,721m to 4,714m
Distance: 10.5 km
Trek time: 6–8 hours
Zone: Semi-desert
Today’s trek takes you through an increasingly stark landscape as you climb above the moorland into alpine desert. The path leads across the wide saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, where you'll pause for lunch. The views open up dramatically as you approach the base of Kibo, with the summit looming high above. Arrive at Kibo Huts by afternoon, rest, and prepare for your early morning summit attempt.
Day 5
Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Huts
Elevation: 4,714m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) | Descend to 3,721m
Distance: 6.25 km / 3.9 miles up | 15.75 km / 9 miles down | Hiking Time: 5–7 hours up | 5–6 hours down | Habitat: Arctic
Elevation: 4,714m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) | Descend to 3,721m
Distance: 6.25 km up 15.75 km down
Trek time: 5–7 hours up 5-6 hours down
Zone: Arctic
Wake at midnight for a light meal before beginning your summit push under starlight. Ascend steep switchbacks on scree and possibly snow to reach Gilman’s Point (5,861m) on the crater rim around sunrise. Continue for another 2 hours along the rim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the views and photos, descend carefully to Kibo Huts for rest and lunch before continuing back to Horombo Huts. This is the most physically and mentally demanding day of the trek, so move slowly and keep your spirits high.
Day 6
Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,721m to 1,905m
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 3,721m to 1,905m
Distance: 20 km
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Rainforest
After breakfast, begin the final descent. Stop at Mandara Huts for lunch, then continue through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. The trail can be muddy and steep, especially in warmer, wetter conditions. Upon reaching the gate, receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to your mountain crew. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where a hot shower, hearty meal, and well-earned celebration await.
Post Climb
Celebration and departure
Distance: 12 km
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Semi-desert
Celebrate your incredible achievement! After a quiet, reflective bus ride and the best shower of your life, it’s time to come together, receive your summit certificates, and party the night away. The Uncharted Summits team will ensure smooth departures—whether you’re heading home or on to a safari or Zanzibar. Your transformational journey in Tanzania may be ending, but its impact continues long after you return home.
