Overview
Trip Introduction
Nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route”, Marangu is the oldest and most well-established trail to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its gradual ascent and unique mountain hut accommodations, this route is a favorite for trekkers looking for a comfortable yet challenging climb. While Marangu is often perceived as the easiest path to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), don’t be fooled—this is still an adventure that demands physical and mental endurance.
Unlike other routes that require camping, Marangu offers cozy wooden huts with beds, making it an excellent option even during the rainy season. However, it is also one of the busiest routes as both ascent and descent follow the same trail.
At ZePacha Kingdom Adventure, our carefully designed 6-day itinerary maximizes acclimatization, boosting your chances of a successful summit while allowing you to soak in the stunning landscapes of Africa’s highest mountain. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or an experienced adventurer, this journey promises to be an unforgettable challenge filled with breathtaking scenery, camaraderie, and a deep sense of achievement.
Included/Exclude
- All required entry fees and permits
- Professional and experienced guides, staff, and support team
- Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Daily meals as per the itinerary
- Transportation for all scheduled activities
- Necessary equipment for activities where applicable
- Bottled water during excursions
- Cultural experiences and community visits where included
- Emergency support and basic first aid services
- International and domestic flights
- Visa and travel document fees
- Travel insurance (recommended for emergencies and cancellations)
- Personal expenses such as toiletries, souvenirs, and extra purchases
- Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
- Tips for guides, staff, and service providers
- Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Laundry services during the trip
Tour Plan
Welcome to Tanzania!
Your adventure begins the moment you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport. If you've arranged an airport pick-up with ZePacha Kingdom Adventure, our friendly driver will be waiting to greet you with a warm Tanzanian welcome! Sit back and relax as we transfer you to Planet Lodge in Arusha, a peaceful retreat where you can unwind after your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore Arusha, Tanzania’s vibrant safari and trekking hub, or simply relax and prepare for the epic climb ahead.
Accommodation
Planet Lodge, Arusha – A charming and comfortable lodge, perfect for a restful night before your Kilimanjaro trek.
Meal Plan
Dinner at the hotel.
Journey Details
Duration: ~1 hour
Distance: 55 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha
Rainforest Magic & Blue Monkeys!
After an early breakfast at 8:00 AM, we depart at 9:00 AM for Marangu Gate (1,970m), arriving around 11:00 AM for registration. This is where your adventure begins!
Our trek kicks off with a 4-5 hour hike through lush rainforest, where you might spot blue monkeys swinging in the trees. Keep an eye out for the bright red Impatiens Kilimanjari flower, a plant found only on Kilimanjaro!
By 5:00 PM, we reach Mandara Hut (2,700m)—a cozy A-frame hut where you’ll spend your first night on the mountain. Dinner is served at 7:30 PM before you settle in for a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Dormitory beds at Mandara Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 8km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Moorlands & Giant Lobelias!
Today’s 6-8 hour trek covers 12km (7 miles), taking us into Kilimanjaro’s moody moorland zone. The rainforest gives way to rolling heather-covered hills, and we pass the Maundi Crater, a great spot for panoramic views!
Along the way, look out for Kilimanjaro’s iconic plant life—the giant groundsels, lobelias, and proteas. If the weather is clear, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Kibo’s snowy peak!
We reach Horombo Hut (3,720m) by 4:00 PM, where dinner is served at 6:00 PM before another well-deserved night’s rest.
Accommodation: Dormitory beds at Horombo Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 12km / 7 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Acclimatization Day – Key to Summit Success!
Today, we take an acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks (4,100m), a 90-minute climb that helps our bodies adjust to the altitude. These striped volcanic formations get their name from their unique black-and-white color patterns—but don’t expect to see actual zebras here!
After taking in the incredible views, we return to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for another night. This extra day is crucial for increasing summit success rates!
Accommodation: Dormitory beds at Horombo Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Cooked Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 6km / 4 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
We start early at 7:00 AM and begin a 6-8 hour trek through the Alpine desert, climbing 983m (3,225ft) over 10km (6 miles).
We cross The Saddle, a barren volcanic plain nestled between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks—one of the most breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes on Kilimanjaro!
At Kibo Hut (4,703m), we have an early dinner at 5:30 PM, then rest before the final summit push at midnight!
Accommodation: Dormitory beds at Kibo Hut
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 10km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Summit Night – Conquer Uhuru Peak!
Midnight departure—this is the toughest but most rewarding day!
We begin our slow, steady ascent to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), a major milestone on the crater rim. From here, we continue along the snow-covered ridge to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa!
After celebrating at the summit, we descend back to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Dormitory beds at Horombo Hut
Meal Plan: Light Snack Before Ascent, Summit Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 22km / 14 miles
Hiking Time: 12-15 hours
Final Descent & Celebration!
After breakfast, we descend 1,750m (5,740ft) over 18km (11 miles) back to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates! We then return to Arusha for a hot shower and celebratory dinner!
Accommodation: Planet Lodge Arusha
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 18km / 11 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Are You Ready to Take on Kilimanjaro?
Let’s make your dream a reality!
Book with ZePacha Kingdom Adventure and conquer the Roof of Africa!