Overview
Day by day
Price
Climb Kilimanjaro's Most Comfortable Trail
Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” the Marangu Route is the oldest and one of the most iconic trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Following in the footsteps of Hans Meyer’s first successful ascent in 1889, this route offers a historic and scenic journey through all of Kilimanjaro’s dramatic climate zones—from lush tropical forests to stark alpine deserts.
What sets Marangu apart is its unique accommodation: it is the only route that features dormitory-style huts, providing added comfort and shelter—especially valuable during the rainy seasons. This makes it an excellent choice for treks from mid-March to late May and again from late October to late December.
The Marangu Route is available in both 5-day and 6-day itineraries, with the 6-day option offering a more gradual ascent and better acclimatization—making it the recommended choice for most climbers.
- You visit
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)(Start) Kilimanjaro Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)(End)
- Highlights
- Mountain climbing
- Vehicle used
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a Serengeti Nexus representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel included in your package. Your hotel stay is designed for comfort and relaxation, featuring well-appointed rooms, hot showers, friendly staff, a swimming pool, and reliable Wi-Fi. In the evening, you’ll attend a detailed briefing with our team to review your itinerary and ensure you're fully prepared for the climb ahead.
Please Note: Check-in begins at 2:00 PM. Private tour packages include shared airport transfers for your group. If additional individual transfers are required, extra charges may apply. To avoid additional costs, we recommend coordinating your group’s arrival and departure times whenever possible.
Dinner
Golden Crest Hotel
Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Your climbing guide and support team will meet you at the hotel for a quick briefing before driving to Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,462 ft), the starting point of your Kilimanjaro climb. After registering and securing permits, you’ll begin your hike through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,720 m / 8,922 ft). Lunch will be served upon arrival, and you'll be assigned your overnight hut.
Important Tips: Bring a rain jacket—the rainforest has a high chance of rain. This is your first day at altitude. Stay hydrated (over 4 L/day) and consider altitude medication (consult your doctor in advance). Symptoms like headaches or nausea are common; inform your guide if you feel unwell.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mandara Hut
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
After an early breakfast, your group will begin a moderate trek toward Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,204 ft). Upon arrival, you'll enjoy incredible views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. In the afternoon, you’ll take an acclimatization hike toward Kibo Hut, gaining 200 m / 656 ft in altitude, then return to Horombo for dinner.
Please Note: This acclimatization hike is gentle but essential. It significantly improves your adaptation to the altitude and increases your chances of a successful summit. Take it seriously to help prevent altitude sickness.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horombo Hut
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
After breakfast, you’ll take a short acclimatization hike toward Kibo Hut, then return to Horombo Hut for lunch. The afternoon is free for rest, photography around Mawenzi Volcano, or a short walk in the area. To support proper acclimatization, you’ll spend a second night at the same altitude at Horombo Hut.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horombo Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
After breakfast, the trek continues to Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 ft). The trail is not technically challenging, but maintaining a steady pace is key to conserving energy for the summit push. Upon arrival, lunch will be served. Spend the rest of the day resting, staying hydrated, and avoiding physical exertion to prepare for the overnight ascent.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kibo Hut
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Hut
Your summit attempt begins at night from Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 ft), heading toward Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft), the highest point in Africa. While the trail isn’t technically difficult, the high altitude makes this the most physically demanding part of the climb. For safety and support, climbers are paired two per guide, ensuring close monitoring and motivation during the ascent. After reaching the summit, you may descend briefly to the nearby glacier (optional), then return to Kibo Hut for a short rest. You’ll then continue the descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,202 ft) for overnight. Please Note: Most mountain accidents occur during descent. Take each step carefully to avoid injury.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Horombo Hut
Day 7: Descent to Marangu Gate and Return
After a warm breakfast, you’ll begin your final descent to Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,462 ft), marking the official end of your Kilimanjaro trek. At the gate, your group will gather for a short celebration and a chance to share feedback in the guestbook. You’ll receive your summit certificates, then be transferred back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. If you’d like to continue your adventure with a wildlife safari, we’d be happy to help you plan and book the perfect experience with Serengeti Nexus.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Golden Crest Hotel
Day 8: Departure from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport
Enjoy breakfast and a private transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO, 50 km, 1 hour) for your onward journey, or connect with a Serengeti Nexus safari or Zanzibar trip if arranged.
Breakfast
