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per person sharing
From $7,830 per person
5 Nights / 6 days
Marangu Gate, Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut and Uhuru Peak
The Marangu Route, often called the Coca-Cola Route, is the most affordable and one of the most popular routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers accommodation in mountain huts at every stage, providing a more comfortable trekking experience with beds, solar lighting, and shared dining areas.
The huts are communal, creating a friendly atmosphere where climbers from around the world share meals and experiences. Mandara and Kibo Huts each have around 60 beds, while Horombo Hut has about 120 beds. The lower huts offer running water, while facilities at higher altitude are more basic.
This route can be completed in 5 days, but a 6-day itinerary is highly recommended for better acclimatization and a higher chance of reaching the summit. The extra day is spent at Horombo Hut, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude.
You begin your climb at Marangu Gate after registration, entering the lush montane rainforest. The trail is gentle and well-defined, making for a steady introduction to the trek. The forest is rich with wildlife, including blue monkeys and colobus monkeys, along with a variety of bird species.
This section is scenic and shaded, offering a comfortable start to the journey. Upon arrival at Mandara Hut, you can relax or take a short walk to Maundi Crater.
Elevation: 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 5 miles
Habitat: Montane Rainforest
Leaving the forest behind, the trail gradually opens into heath and moorland. The landscape becomes less dense, revealing wide views and unique high-altitude plants such as giant lobelias and groundsels.
The hike is longer and more noticeable in terms of altitude gain, so a slow pace is important. As you approach Horombo Hut, you’ll begin to see the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo.
Elevation: 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 7 miles
Habitat: Heath and Moorland
This day is reserved for acclimatization to improve your summit success. You will take a short hike toward Zebra Rocks or in the direction of Mawenzi, gaining elevation before returning to Horombo Hut.
This helps your body adjust to thinner air while offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The rest of the day is spent resting and preparing for the higher altitude ahead.
Elevation: 12,205 ft to approx. 14,400 ft (and back)
Distance: 3 miles
Habitat: Moorland / Alpine Transition
Today’s trek crosses the wide saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The environment becomes drier and more rugged, with very little vegetation. The trail is steady but feels more demanding due to the altitude and open terrain. This is a quiet and dramatic part of the mountain. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you will rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Elevation: 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 6 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Your summit attempt begins just after midnight. This is the most challenging day, with a slow and steady climb in cold conditions.
You will reach Gilman’s Point at sunrise, then continue along the crater rim past Stella Point to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut for the night.
Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft, then down to 12,205 ft
Distance: 4 miles ascent, 10 miles descent
Habitat: Arctic Summit Zone to Alpine Desert
On the final day, you descend through moorland and back into the rainforest. The trail is longer but easier as you lose altitude. You will pass Mandara Hut along the way before reaching Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you receive your summit certificate, marking the successful completion of your climb.
Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 12 miles
Habitat: Moorland to Montane Rainforest
The best times are during the dry seasons:
A moderate to high level of fitness is recommended. Regular hiking and cardio training greatly improve your experience.
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