Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route also known as the “Coca Cola” route. This particular route stands out as the most established option on Kilimanjaro providing sleeping huts throughout the tour.
Day 1; Arrival in Tanzania
Once you touch down at Kilimanjaro International Airport your guides will warmly welcome you. Transport you to your accommodation in Moshi. This day is primarily dedicated to resting from the tour exploring the surroundings and getting accustomed to the altitude. You’ll also have a climb briefing with your guides to ensure you’re well prepared for what lies ahead.
Day 2; Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Altitude; 1860m to 2700m
Distance; 8 km
Hiking time; Around 3 4 hours
After enjoying a breakfast you’ll head over to Marangu Gate where you’ll complete registration procedures with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities before begining on your trek through the enchanting rainforest towards Mandara Hut.
Day 3; Mandara Hut, to Horombo Hut
After having breakfast you will begin your ascent, from Mandara Hut leaving the rainforest behind and entering the moorland. The trail becomes steeper. You’ll be rewarded with views of the vast Kenyan plains that help take your mind off the physical effort.
On Day 4 you’ll have an acclimatization day at Horombo Hut.
During this time you will begin on a short challenging hike to either Zebra Rock or Mawenzi Hut and then return to Horombo Hut. This allows your body to gradually adjust to the altitude increasing your chances of a Kilimanjaro summit.
Moving on to Day 5 you will leave Horombo Hut.
Make your way towards Kibo Hut. This leg of the trek involves ascending from an altitude of 3,720 meters to 4,730 meters while crossing the barren expanse known as the ‘Saddle’, between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
The objective, for the day is to reach Kibo Hut, which’s the camp before your attempt at reaching the summit.
Day 6; Summit Day, from Kibo Hut to Horombo Hut
Altitude; From 4730m to 5895m (Uhuru Peak) and then down to 3720m.
Distance; 6 km 16 km downhill.
Hiking time; 6 7 hours uphill and 5 6 hours
The summit attempt starts around midnight, where you will navigate an steep path leading up to Gillmans Point and eventually reaching Uhuru Peak. After spending some time at the summit you will descend back to Kibo Hut for some rest before continuing on towards Horombo Hut.
Day 7; Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate followed by returning to Moshi
Altitude; From 3720m to 1860m.
Distance; 20 km.
Hiking time; Around 5 6 hours.
On your day of trekking you will make your way back through the rainforest towards Marangu Gate. There you will bid farewell to your mountain team. Receive your deserved summit certificates. Finally you will be transported back to your hotel, in Moshi.
Day 8; End Of Trek
Once you’ve had your breakfast the day is yours to enjoy at your pace. You can take the opportunity to explore Moshi, shop, for souvenirs or begin your tour home. If you have time and inclination there are options available such as going on a safari adventure visiting a local village or discovering the breathtaking national parks of Tanzania.
Like it’s important to maintain open communication, with your guide and heed their advice. Remember to stay well hydrated and give yourself time to adjust to the altitude.
