7-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Marangu Route. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, Marangu is the only route on Mount Kilimanjaro that offers hut accommodation along the trail. Making it an excellent choice for climbers seeking a well-supported and less rugged experience.
Your adventure begins in Arusha or Moshi, where you’ll meet your professional mountain crew and prepare for the trek. The climb officially starts at the Marangu Gate (1,860m), leading you through the lush rainforest to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop.
As you ascend, the landscape transforms—from tropical forest to moorland and alpine desert. On your way to Horombo Hut and then Kibo Hut, enjoy scenic views of Mawenzi Peak and the vast plains below. The gradual slope and well-maintained trail make this route ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers.
Your summit attempt begins at midnight from Kibo Hut, trekking under a blanket of stars toward Gilman’s Point, and onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Horombo and continue to the base the following day.
This 7-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, greatly increasing your chances of a successful and safe summit.
Why Choose the Marangu Route?
Only route with hut accommodations (no camping required)
Ideal for beginners or those seeking a gentler trek
Extra acclimatization day included
Scenic and gradual trail with professional support
All-inclusive: park fees, guides, meals, huts, and transfers
The 7-day Marangu Route offers a rewarding path to Kilimanjaro’s summit—comfortable, scenic, and unforgettable.
The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. Unfortunately, Marangu is less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent follow the same path. For this reason, it is also the most crowded route, with a higher number of climbers compared to other routes on the mountain.
You leave the glades of the rain-forest and follow an ascending path on the open moorlands to the Horombo encampment. Views of Mawenzi and the summit of Kibo are amazing. Look for giant lobelias and grounsels. You may begin to feel the affects of the altitude.
Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 12km/7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Rest day at Horombo Hut with optional hike by Mawenzi Peak.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 0km/0mi
Hiking Time: 0 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Ascending, we now pass the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with upper heathland but then disappears into “moonscape”. Dinner, rest, and prepare for summit climb.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2 am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s point located on the crater rim. Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment.
Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
Down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
A vehicle will be waiting for you at Marangu gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour).
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest