Duration

Country

Tanzania, United Republic of

Maximum Traveller

100

Min Pax

4 Days Marangu Route

Overview

The 4-days Marangu Route is the shortest and most direct option to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit via hut accommodation. Often called the “Coca-Cola” route, it features a steady trail with shared sleeping huts, dining halls, and bathrooms—making it ideal for trekkers seeking more comfort. Starting from Marangu Gate, the route ascends through rainforest and moorland to the alpine desert zone, aiming for Uhuru Peak via Kibo Hut. Although physically challenging due to limited acclimatization time, the trail is well-maintained, and Gardenia African Safaris Ltd provides expert guides, porters, and cooks to ensure your success and safety. All meals, park fees, logistics, and emergency support are covered. Best suited for fit individuals or those acclimatized to high altitudes. The return descent passes through the same scenic route.

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1
Marangu Gate → Mandara Hut (2,700 m)
Your Kilimanjaro journey begins with registration at Marangu Gate (1,860 m). After a short briefing, you’ll begin trekking through lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and tropical birds. This first day is relatively gentle, covering 8 km over 4–5 hours on a well-defined trail. Guides maintain a slow pace, with breaks for photos and water. Upon arrival at Mandara Hut, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch prepared by Gardenia’s camp chef. In the afternoon, take an optional acclimatization walk to Maundi Crater (2,780 m) for panoramic views. Shared dorm-style huts offer bunk beds, basic mattresses, and bathrooms. Hot drinks, snacks, and a nourishing 3-course dinner are served in the dining hall. Our team conducts altitude checks and gives a short orientation on the route ahead. Expect mild evening temperatures and deep forest surroundings.
Day 2
Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
After a hearty breakfast, the trail climbs steadily through heath and moorland, offering views of Mawenzi Peak and, on clear days, Kibo Peak. You hike approximately 12 km over 6–7 hours at a moderate pace. The terrain is more open, with giant lobelias, grasses, and volcanic rock. Your Gardenia guides ensure proper hydration and monitor all climbers for signs of altitude sickness. A packed lunch is served on the trail. Upon arrival at Horombo Hut, our team has hot tea, snacks, and dinner ready. Sleeping huts accommodate 4–8 climbers, with basic beds and shared washrooms. Evening temperatures are much colder here—warm clothing is essential. Guides provide a detailed summit briefing and check gear readiness for the push to Kibo Hut tomorrow. This is your most scenic night with wide views over the plains below.
Day 3
Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Hut
This is your summit day, beginning just before midnight. After a light pre-trek snack, you set off under starlight toward Kibo Hut (4,703 m), then ascend steep scree trails to Gillman’s Point (5,685 m). From there, it’s a slow but determined trek to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the Roof of Africa. The entire ascent covers about 10–12 km over 10–14 hours round-trip. Your guides set a measured pace, provide oxygen support if needed, and offer encouragement every step. At the summit, enjoy a short celebration, photo stop, and hot drink. The descent retraces your steps to Kibo, then back to Horombo Hut. It’s a long day requiring mental and physical strength, but Gardenia’s support team ensures your safety and morale. A warm dinner and well-earned rest await at Horombo after this incredible achievement.
Day 4
Horombo Hut , Marangu Gate (1,860 m)
After breakfast, your final trek down the mountain begins. You’ll descend approximately 20 km over 5–7 hours, passing through moorland and lush rainforest zones. The return trail offers a refreshing change in scenery, often filled with birdsong, mountain flowers, and the sounds of the jungle. A lunch stop is provided en route, with hot drinks and snacks served at Mandara Hut. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you sign the climbers’ register and receive your official Kilimanjaro certificate for reaching Uhuru Peak. A special tip ceremony is held where you thank your guides, porters, and cooks. Gardenia African Safaris Ltd organizes your transport back to the hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Expect laughter, storytelling, and a deep sense of accomplishment as you return from Africa’s tallest mountain, carrying unforgettable memories of the Marangu trail.

Cost Info

Price includes

Park fees
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
All accommodations as stated in the itinerary
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Camping Equipment
Porterage

Price excludes

International flights (from/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Alcohol drinks
Rescue Fee
Climbing Gear
Sleeping Bag

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4 Days Marangu Route

Overview

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1

Marangu Gate → Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

Day 2

Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Day 3

Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Hut

Day 4

Horombo Hut , Marangu Gate (1,860 m)

Cost Info

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Overview

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1

Marangu Gate → Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

Day 2

Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Day 3

Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Hut

Day 4

Horombo Hut , Marangu Gate (1,860 m)

Cost Info

Price includes

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Marangu Gate → Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Hut

Horombo Hut , Marangu Gate (1,860 m)