6 Days: Marangu Route VIP Kilimanjaro Climb

Overview, Itinerary, Price, Includes & Excludes

6 days Marangu Route
Overview:

Step into Kilimanjaro’s rich climbing history with our VIP 6-Day Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route.” As the mountain’s oldest and most established trail, Marangu offers a unique blend of tradition, comfort, and accessibility—making it the ideal choice for climbers who prefer solid shelter over tents without sacrificing the spirit of adventure.
Unlike other routes, Marangu provides hut accommodations with foam mattresses and shared dining and washroom facilities—offering more stability and warmth at night. This makes it especially appealing for those seeking a less rugged experience while still enjoying the thrill of summiting Africa’s highest peak.
While the trail features a gentler slope and a more direct path, its shorter itinerary poses a challenge for altitude acclimatization. That’s why the VIP experience includes expert guidance, attentive monitoring, and tailored support to help you adjust comfortably and safely throughout the climb.
Over six unforgettable days, you’ll trek through Kilimanjaro’s five diverse ecological zones—from vibrant rainforest to moorland, alpine desert, and the glacier-clad summit zone. Your journey culminates in a sunrise ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 ft), where breathtaking views reward your determination.
The VIP package ensures your trek is smooth and memorable, with personalized service, nutritious gourmet meals, porter assistance, and priority support every step of the way.
For those seeking a more comfortable Kilimanjaro climb without compromising the adventure, the VIP Marangu Route offers the perfect balance of ease, tradition, and high-altitude achievement.

Details:

Key Details of the Marangu Route:
• Duration: 6 Days
• Distance: Approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles)
• Starting Elevation: 6,046 ft (1,843 m)
• Summit Elevation: 19,341 ft (5,895 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Hut Lodges
• Best Time to Climb: June to October and December to March

ITINERARY :

Arrival Day
On arrival in Moshi, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel. Once settled, we will conduct a detailed orientation and gear check to ensure you are well-prepared for the climb. You’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary, safety protocols, and answer any questions. Enjoy dinner at the hotel and rest for the adventure ahead.

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
• Elevation: 6,046 ft (1,843 m) to 8,858 ft (2,700 m)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Rain Forest

Your trek begins with a drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for registration. The hike starts through a dense rainforest with chances to spot colobus monkeys. You’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, where you’ll spend your first night in shared hut accommodations.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
• Elevation: 8,858 ft (2,700 m) to 12,205 ft (3,720 m)
• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

After breakfast, you’ll leave the rainforest behind and enter the moorland zone. The trail offers beautiful views and fascinating flora, including giant lobelias and groundsels. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, where you’ll rest and acclimatize.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Zebra Rocks and Return to Horombo Hut (Acclimatization Day)
• Elevation: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) to 13,123 ft (4,000 m) and back
• Distance: 5 km (3 miles) round trip
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

This is an acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the altitude. You’ll take a short hike to Zebra Rocks, named for their distinctive black and white striped appearance, before returning to Horombo Hut for another night.

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
• Elevation: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) to 15,430 ft (4,703 m)
• Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

The trail to Kibo Hut passes through the Saddle, a barren stretch of alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The air becomes thinner as you gain altitude, and you’ll arrive at Kibo Hut by late afternoon. You’ll rest, prepare for the summit attempt, and have an early dinner before heading to bed.

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
• Elevation: 15,430 ft (4,703 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) and back to 12,205 ft (3,720 m)
• Distance: 22 km (14 miles)
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
• Habitat: Arctic, then Moorland

You’ll begin your summit attempt around midnight, climbing steeply towards Gilman’s Point (18,652 ft/5,685 m) along the crater rim. From there, it’s another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
• Elevation: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) to 6,046 ft (1,843 m)
• Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland, then Rain Forest

On your final day, you’ll descend through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you’ll collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and celebrate your climb.

PRICE (USD)

START FROM: $ 5,475

PRICE INCLUDES FOR VIP CLIMB

- Dedicated Customer Satisfaction Associate: Personalized assistance throughout your climb, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

- Airport Pickup and Drop-off: Convenient transport to and from the airport at the start and end of your journey.

- Hotel Accommodation: One night before and one night after the climb in a comfortable hotel.

- Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during, the climb, including water on the mountain.

- Park Fees and Taxes: All applicable national park entry fees and taxes are covered.

- Transportation: Transfers between the hotel and the trailhead for the start and end of your climb.

- Camping Equipment: High-quality, 3-person mountaineering tents, sleeping mats, and a private toilet tent for your comfort.

- Support Team: A professional team of certified guides, porters, and cooks to assist and support you throughout the trek.

- Kilimanjaro SAR Evacuation Insurance: Comprehensive search and rescue evacuation coverage for peace of mind during your climb.

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Airfare to and from Tanzania
• Personal travel insurance
• Visa
• Tips for the support team
• Sleeping bags and other personal gear
• Rental gear
• Lunch and dinner at the hotel
• Drinks and snacks

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