Marangu route which is also known as the coca cola route is the least expensive route to the summit. This is also the only route with the comforts of sleeping huts at every camp site with solar lights and comfortable beds.
The huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow.
There are 60 beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 beds at Horombo Hut. Bathrooms and running water are available at the two lower huts. Mens’ and ladies’ latrines are available at the last camp but are very basic.
All climbing groups, often from several countries around the world, share meals in dining huts providing a jovial and energetic atmosphere.
This route is usually done in 5 days (shortest route to the summit) but can be done in 6 days for better acclimatization. The extra day can be spent resting at Horombo or climbing the small peak of Mawenzi.
If you’ve arranged airport transfers, a Kili Vista Expeditions representative will meet you upon arrival at Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
Today includes a detailed pre-trek briefing, gear check, and equipment rentals if needed. We recommend arriving at least one day before your climb begins.
After breakfast and a short drive to the Marangu Gate (about 1 hour), complete park registration and begin your trek through lush rainforest toward Mandara Hut. Along the way, look out for colobus monkeys, exotic birds, and towering trees. If time allows, take an optional hike to Maundi Crater for sweeping views of northern Tanzania and Kenya.
Elevation: 1,860m / 6,100ft → 2,700m / 8,875ft
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail ascends into open moorland with striking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Giant lobelias and groundsels dominate the landscape. Altitude effects may begin to appear, so pace yourself and stay hydrated.
Elevation: 2,700m / 8,875ft → 3,700m / 12,200ft
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Continue ascending past the final water point toward the saddle separating Mawenzi and Kibo. Vegetation thins as the landscape shifts into a dramatic alpine desert—harsh, vast, and unforgettable. Settle in early to rest and prepare for the summit push.
Elevation: 3,700m / 12,200ft → 4,700m / 15,500ft
Distance: 9 km / 5.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Summit day begins between midnight and 2:00 AM. Climb steadily up steep scree toward Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and capturing photos, descend to Kibo Hut for rest and lunch before continuing down to Horombo Hut for the night.
Elevation: 4,700m / 15,500ft → 5,895m / 19,341ft → 3,700m / 12,200ft
Distance: 6 km / 4 miles up | 15 km / 9 miles down
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours up | 6–8 hours down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast, descend through moorland to Mandara Hut, then continue through rainforest to Marangu Gate. Expect wet or muddy paths at lower elevations—gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. At the gate, receive your summit certificates before driving back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-earned rest.
Elevation: 3,700m / 12,200ft → 1,700m / 5,500ft
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast
