6-day Marangu Route

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to the “Roof of Africa” with this 7-day Kilimanjaro trek itinerary, a thrilling ascent up the Marangu Route. This iconic pathway not only offers a challenging climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro but also presents a unique experience with its distinctive characteristics. Known as the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu stands out for its comfortable hut accommodations, providing a respite for trekkers each night. Traverse through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests teeming with exotic flora and fauna to alpine meadows and lunar-like desolation as you ascend. The mesmerizing Mandara and Horombo Huts, en route to the glacial summit, add a touch of comfort to the awe-inspiring journey, making the Marangu Route a perfect blend of challenge and charm.

DAY 1 – Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Elevation: 6,050 to 8,858ft (1844 to 2700m)
Distance: 5 mi (8 km)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

After registering at the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, you’ll take your first step toward your goal – the Roof of Africa. You’ll be hiking through the montane forest, a lush, biodiverse zone, and home to the endemic flower Impatiens Kilimajari.  Keep an eye out for blue and colobus monkeys and listen to the birdsong; the avifauna here is prolific. You may even catch a glimpse of Hartlaub’s Turaco, a stunning brightly colored resident. After reaching Mandara Hut, you could take a walk over to the Maundi crater or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

DAY 2 – Mandara Hut to Shira Camp

Elevation: 8,858 to 12,205ft (2700 to 3720m)
Distance: 7 mi (11.3 km)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Today your hike will take you out of the forest and into the heathland where giant heathers grow, and then you’ll climb higher into the moorland. Here, you’ll see two of the most unusual plants on Kilimanjaro: the fairy-tale-like giant groundsel and the giant lobelias. You’ll also have your first views of the peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo.  That’s the really big one that you’ll be scaling in a few days.

DAY 3 – Acclimatization day at Shira Camp

Elevation: 12,205 to 14,400ft (3720 to 4389m)
Distance: 3 mi (4.8 km)
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

No need to pack your bags today, as you’ll stay a second night at Horombo. Your guide will take you on an acclimatization walk to Zebra rocks and the base of Mawenzi Peak where you’ll have glorious views of Kibo looming over the saddle.  The rest of the day will be spent at the camp, where you can put your feet up and catch up on some rest.

DAY 4 – Shira Camp to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 12,205 to 15,430ft (3720 to 4703m)
Distance: 6 mi (10 km)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Today you’ll trek up into the barren high-altitude desert, crossing the boulder-strewn saddle that connects Kibo and Mawenzi. You may be lucky and see a buzzard or even a lammergeyer soaring on the thermals above. After reaching the camp, the rest of the day is devoted to preparing for your summit bid – preparing your kit, eating, and resting.

DAY 5 – Kibo Hut to Summit to Shira Camp

Elevation: 15,430 to 19,345ft; down to 12,205ft (4703 to 5896m; down to 3720m)
Distance: 4 mi ascent / 10 mi descent (6.4 km ascent / 16.1 km descent)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent

Time for the push for the final ascent to Uhuru Peak! You will be awoken at around 11:30 pm to make a start just after midnight. This is where your grit and determination will be called upon, but your reward is possibly the most amazing sunrise you’ll ever see on the horizon behind Mawenzi.

You’ll probably be around Gilman’s Point (18,652ft / 5685m) at this time, so it’s time for a much-needed breather before walking around the top of the crater rim, passing Stella Point, and finally reaching Uhuru. Take some time to enjoy the views of the crater and glaciers.  Then, you’ll retrace your steps back to Kibo for breakfast and a rest. You’ll then descend back down to Horombo hut which will feel oxygen-rich after the summit and you’ll enjoy a long night’s sleep.

DAY 6 – Shira Camp to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,205 to 6,050ft (3720 to 1844m)
Distance: 12 mi (19.3 km)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Our last day on the mountain will start after breakfast and thanking your crew.  It’s time to head back down to the forest, stopping for lunch at Mandara Hut, then on to Marangu gate. Your guide will arrange your certificates and our driver will meet you to transfer you to your hotel for a long hot shower and a celebration.

DAY 7 – Departure

If your time in Africa ends today, our transfer team will drive you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure. If you have booked a safari with us, or a few days to dissolve into the pristine sandy beaches and tropical waters of Zanzibar, we will be there to help you comfortably transition from your climb into your next Tanzanian adventure.