Africa Prime Experiences | Luxury Safaris

Duration 8 Days

Difficulty Challenging

Style Private

Location Tanzania

Overview

The Experience

What this journey is about and what you can expect.

The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is one of the classic and oldest paths to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, starting on the south eastern side of the mountain. It is historically significant as the route taken by Hans Meyer during the first successful Kilimanjaro summit in 1889. The route is completed in 5 to 6 days and is the only one offering hut accommodation instead of tents, making it appealing to climbers who prefer more comfort. The trail passes through all of Kilimanjaro's climatic zones, from tropical forests to alpine deserts, and Marangu Gate also serves as the headquarters of Kilimanjaro National Park. Unlike other routes, both the ascent and descent use the same path on Marangu.

Route Map

See the route at a glance before diving into each day.

Journey

Day by Day Itinerary

A clear day-by-day breakdown so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Day 1

Arrival in Kilimanjaro

You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) by an Taza Safaris representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. Your guide will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. Gear which is missing can be rented on this day.

Stay: Kibo Palace Hotel

Day 2

Marangu Gate (1860m/6102ft) to Mandara Hut (2700m/8858ft)

After breakfast, you will be collected from your lodge in Moshi and taken to the Marangu gate. Once the necessary paperwork has been completed, your trek can begin and you will soon be hiking through the dense rainforest. Alongside the impressive vegetation, you will have the chance to catch a glimpse of some primates as you head to the Mandara Hut. After a well-earned rest, your guide can take you to the Maundi Crater where you can enjoy the wonderful view of the Kenyan interior.
Distance: 8.3km / 5.2mi
Duration: 5–6 hours

Stay: Mandara Hut

Day 3

Mandara Hut (2700m/8858ft) to Horombo Hut (3700m/12139ft)

The day begins with an early breakfast. Shortly after you have left Mandara Hut, you will reach the timberline and then enter the heath and moor zone. Approximately 4–6 hours later, the Horombo Hut will come into sight, standing at an altitude of 3700m. From the hut, you will have fantastic views overlooking Mawenzi, Kibo, and the wide plain of the Masai steppe.
Distance: 12.5km / 7.8mi
Duration: 8–9 hours

Stay: Horombo hut

Day 4

Acclimatization trek to Zebra Rocks (4020m/13189ft) then back to Horombo Hut (3700m/12139ft)

Leaving the pine forest behind we carry on. Today serves as an acclimatization day. This should not be underestimated and greatly improves your chance of success in reaching the summit. After a relaxing breakfast, a 4-hour trek follows to the Zebra Rocks. The distinctive black and white stripes give the rock formation its name. On your return to Horombo Hut, a warm lunch will be waiting for you. You can relax in the afternoon and regain your strength for the hike the following day.
Distance: 5km / 3.1mi
Duration: 4–5 hours

Stay: Horombo Hut

Day 5

Horombo Hut (3700m/12139ft) to Kibo Hut (4700m/15420ft)

Today's stage is long and tough. The well-built trail passes the "Last Water point" which is followed by the so-called "saddle". This nearly vegetation-less plateau joins the main summit Kibo with Mawenzi. Today's destination is the Kibo Hut that is usually reached in about 5–6 hours. Here, you will enjoy an early evening meal followed by an early night, as the night will be short.
Distance: 9.5km / 5.9mi
Duration: 7–8 hours

Stay: Kibo Hut

Day 6

Kibo Hut (4700m/15420ft) to UHURU PEAK (5895m/19340ft) & down to Horombo Hut (3700m/12139ft)

Today is "The Big Day" - the summit stage. You will begin your final ascent around midnight which will be long and strenuous. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave at 5220m, the climb slowly but surely goes upwards. At sunrise, you will reach Gillman's Point (5681m) - the crater rim of Kilimanjaro - where the sun will slowly start to warm up the land. You will have soon forgotten the cold of the night and after a further hike of 1–2 hours, you will reach Uhuru Peak at 5895m. On your return to Kibo Hut, a warm meal awaits you followed by a 1–2-hour break before proceeding back down to Horombo Hut.
Distance: 22km / 13.7mi
Duration: 12–15 hours

Stay: Horombo Hut

Day 7

Horombo Hut (3700m/12139ft) to Marangu Gate (1860m/6102ft)

The last stage passes through the heath and moor zone to the Mandara Hut (2700m) where a warm lunch is waiting for you. Soon, you will once again pass the tropical rainforest and after a total time of 6 hours trekking, you will be back at the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (1860m). After saying goodbye to your mountain guides, a short transfer follows to take you back to your hotel in Moshi. Once there, you can take a warm and relaxing shower and celebrate your success in reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro.
Distance: 20.8km / 12.9mi
Duration: 7–8 hours

Stay: Kibo Palace Hotel

Day 8

Depart Kilimanjaro

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi town and grab some souvenirs before heading to the airport.
We also welcome you to spare an hour of your day to plant a tree, as part of our environmental conservation efforts in the Kilimanjaro region.
Safari and Zanzibar add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.

End of Itinerary

What's covered

Included & Excluded

Know exactly what's part of your package so you can plan and budget with confidence.

Included

Airport transfers
Professional mountain guides, cooks & porters
All park fees & permits
Accommodation as listed
All meals on the mountain
Rescue & safety equipment
Pre-trek briefing
Summit certificate
Fair porter treatment policy
Tipping ceremony organization

Excluded

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal trekking gear
Tips for mountain crew
Alcoholic drinks
Optional activities
Safari/Zanzibar extensions

Investment

2025/2026 Rates

Prices are quoted in USD per person sharing, based on group size. No hidden fees.

Group Size	Mid-Range
2 Travelers	€2,234
4 Travelers	€2,123
6 Travelers	€2,011
8 Travelers	€1,966
10 Travelers	€1,899

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions about this trip.

Why "Coca-Cola Route"?

The Marangu Route is nicknamed the "Coca-Cola Route" because, historically, climbers could purchase Coca-Cola at the huts along the way. It's also considered a "classic" route due to its popularity and accessibility.

How long does it take?

5–6 days. The 6-day option includes an acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, boosting summit success.

What accommodation is available?

Unique to Marangu, climbers stay in wooden huts at designated campsites—comfortable, especially in rainy seasons.

Is it good for beginners?

Yes, if you're fit and prepared. It's easier due to huts and gradual slopes, but the quick ascent can still be challenging.

What makes it special?

Known as the "Coca-Cola Route," it's the classic Kilimanjaro trek with rich scenery, comfort, and accessibility.

Where is Mount Kilimanjaro located?

Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in northern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border, within Kilimanjaro National Park.

Do I need technical climbing skills to summit Kilimanjaro?

No. Kilimanjaro is a non-technical climb, meaning no ropes or specialized climbing gear are required. However, good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are crucial to reach the summit successfully.

What happens if some members need to turn back before the summit?

No one is forced to go on. There is always enough staff to split the group accordingly to needs and regroup later at the camp. Most people have no trouble reaching the highest campsite. If some members decide not to climb the final distance to the peak or cannot proceed at any point in time, they can wait for the other group climbers to come back, or can go down with a guide following the same way, or take a lateral path to the descent route.

Can I hike Mount Kilimanjaro without a tour company?

No, you need a tour company when hiking Mt Kilimanjaro, because the minimum number of days to hike Mt Kilimanjaro is 5 days. During this time you need food, water, and someone to guide you and carry some of your needs (items/materials). All these services are provided by a tour company. The regulation was established to guide this activity and therefore TANAPA deals with Tanzania-registered tour companies when doing all climbing arrangements and not natural individuals.

Is airport transfer included?

Yes, we provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for all our package bookings.

Do I need a Visa for Tanzania?

Most travelers need a visa. You can obtain an E-Visa online beforehand or a Visa on Arrival ($50 USD or $100 USD for US citizens). Please check your specific country requirements.

What about dietary requirements?

We cater to all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Please inform us at the time of booking so our chefs can prepare accordingly.

Preparation

Free Guide

Kilimanjaro Gear Guide

Summit success depends on the right gear. Download our comprehensive trekking equipment list.

Download Gear List

8 Day Climb Via Marangu Route