The Marangu Gate, the entrance to the route, is located southeast of Mt. Kilimanjaro, and it is only about a 1.5-hour drive from our climbing base at Aishi Machame Hotel.
The Kilimanjaro “Coca-Cola” route is well-traveled and leads through all the climate zones, from tropical rainforest to eternal ice. It also offers breathtaking African landscapes.
However, due to its popularity and affordability, the route may become crowded during peak seasons, such as July-September and December-March.
For better acclimatization, choosing the 6-day option over the 5-day option is strongly recommended.
Don't worry, with the help of our experienced guides, your climb to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is sure to be a success!
Marangu is best for rainy season Kilimanjaro climbs. It's the only route with hut accommodation.
All expeditions are given bottled oxygen to help reduce the stress of acclimatization.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, our driver will be ready to greet you after immigration and customs. The journey to Moshi takes approximately 45 minutes, while the drive to Arusha city takes about an hour without traffic. You’ll have a trek orientation with your Kilimanjaro guide and an opportunity to rent any necessary equipment for your trek. Any excess luggage not needed for the trek can be securely stored at your hotel.
If time permits, we recommend an extra rest day before beginning your trek.
Meals Included: None
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge (Mid-Range)
After breakfast and a briefing, we’ll drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate, a journey of 45-60 minutes. Here, you’ll register and start your ascent. The hike takes you through the lush rainforest to the Mandara encampment, and a side trip to Maundi Crater offers breathtaking views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. Keep an eye out for towering Eucalyptus trees, diverse birdlife, and playful Colobus monkeys.
— Elevation Gain: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
— Distance: 8km/5mi
— Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
— Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mandara Hut (Budget)
Leaving the rainforest behind, you’ll ascend through open moorlands to reach the Horombo encampment. Marvel at the stunning views of Mawenzi and the Kibo summit. Along the way, you’ll encounter giant lobelias and grounsels. As you gain altitude, you may begin to feel the effects of the altitude.
— Elevation Gain: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
— Distance: 12km/7.5mi
— Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
— Habitat: Heathland
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Budget)
Take a well-deserved rest day at Horombo Hut, with the option of a hike to Mawenzi Peak.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Budget)
Continuing your ascent, you’ll pass the last watering point and make your way to the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The vegetation transitions to upper heathland before disappearing into a surreal “moonscape.” This evening, prepare for your summit climb.
— Elevation Gain: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
— Distance: 9km/5.5mi
— Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
— Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (Budget)
In the early hours (midnight to 2am), commence your climb to the summit, navigating steep and challenging scree or snow up to Gilman’s Point, situated on the crater rim. Continue to ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and revel in the breathtaking views at every turn. Descend, pause for lunch and rest at Kibo before heading to the Horombo encampment. The initial part of the climb is undertaken in darkness and requires headlamps or flashlights. The descent begins when it’s still cold, so be prepared with warm layers. This is the most demanding part of the trek, with numerous switchbacks. Going slowly, “pole pole,” and maintaining a positive attitude will lead you to success!
— Elevation Gain: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
— Descent to 3700m/12,200ft
— Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
— Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
— Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Budget)
After breakfast, a steady descent takes you through moorland to Mandara Hut and then through lush forest paths to the Marangu National Park gate. At lower elevations, it may be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Shorts and t-shirts are usually sufficient attire (keep rain gear and warmer clothing on hand). A vehicle will meet you in Marangu village and transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, which takes approximately 1 hour. Don’t forget to express your appreciation to your guides and porters—it’s time to celebrate your achievement!
— Elevation Loss: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
— Distance: 20km/12.5mi
— Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
— Habitat: Forest
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Chanya Lodge (Mid-Range) or Forest Hills Hotel in Arusha City
Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure or continue on to your safari adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast”
Send your inquiry now, and our expert team will contact you within 24 hours to turn your dream climb into a reality