Tanzania · Trekking

7-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Marangu Route to Uhuru Peak

7 Days Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek Africa's highest mountain via the iconic Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route
02 Experience diverse landscapes from tropical rainforests and heathlands to alpine deserts and arctic summit zones
03 Visit scenic landmarks such as Maundi Crater and Zebra Rocks for panoramic views and acclimatization hikes
04 Reach Gilman's Point on Kibo's crater rim and continue to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters
05 Spot unique flora like giant lobelias and fauna such as Colobus monkeys in the rainforest zones

Embark on a classic 7-day Kilimanjaro trekking adventure via the Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route. This well-established and popular route offers comfortable hut accommodations and a gradual ascent, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a well-supported journey to the summit. Experience a variety of landscapes, from lush tropical rainforests and scenic heath zones to alpine deserts and the icy arctic summit zone.

Experience a variety of landscapes, from lush tropical rainforests and scenic heath zones to alpine deserts and the icy arctic summit zone.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut Through Rainforest

Begin the trek on the south-eastern side of Kilimanjaro.
Hike through lush tropical rainforest with a gradual ascent.
Enjoy a packed lunch along the trail.
Overnight at Mandara Hut with solar lighting, flush toilets, and water.
Distance: 7 kilometers.
Trekking Time: 4 to 6 hours.
Zone: Tropical Rainforest.
Altitude Gain: 730 meters.

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut via Heath Zone

Depart after breakfast through the rainforest and into the heath zone.
Optional visit to Maundi Crater for views of Kibo Peak.
Spot giant lobelias along the trail.
Enjoy clear views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks from Horombo Hut.
Distance: 12 kilometers.
Trekking Time: 6 to 8 hours.
Zone: Heath.
Altitude Gain: 1,020 meters.

Day 03

Acclimatization Hike to Zebra Rocks

Trek to Zebra Rocks for acclimatization.
Experience the climb high, sleep low principle.
Enjoy scenic views and unique striped rock formations.
Return to Horombo Hut for an overnight stay.
Distance: 5 kilometers.
Trekking Time: 4 to 5 hours.
Zone: Heath.
Altitude Gain: 300 meters.

Day 04

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Across Alpine Desert

Start early for this long and challenging ascent.
Proceed through alpine desert terrain.
Refill water at the last water point (4,130 meters).
Arrive at Kibo Hut for an early dinner and summit preparations.
Distance: 10 kilometers.
Trekking Time: 6 to 8 hours.
Zone: Alpine Desert.
Altitude Gain: 1,000 meters.

Day 05

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Hut

Begin the summit attempt around midnight.
Reach Gilman's Point (5,685 meters) on the crater rim.
Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), Africa's highest point.
Celebrate with photos and a brief rest.
Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue onward to Horombo Hut.
Distance: 22 kilometers total (6.5 kilometers to Uhuru Peak, 15.5 kilometers to Horombo Hut).
Trekking Time: 6 to 8 hours to Uhuru Peak, 5 to 6 hours to Horombo Hut.
Zone: Arctic Zone and Heath Zone.
Altitude Gain: 1,175 meters.
Altitude Loss: 2,175 meters.

Day 06

Final Descent to Marangu Gate

Begin the final descent through the rainforest.
Stop at Mandara Hut for lunch.
Possible sightings of Colobus monkeys and other wildlife.
Complete registration at Marangu Gate and receive your summit certificate.
Distance: 19 kilometers.
Trekking Time: 6 to 8 hours.
Zone: Rainforest.
Altitude Loss: 1,750 meters.

Day 07

Departure Day and Rest

Enjoy well-deserved rest at your hotel.
Reflect on your successful climb.
Prepare for onward travel or return journey.

Where this trip takes you

Uhuru Peak, Gilman's Point, Zebra Rocks

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro 2 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel accommodation the night before and after the climb, with dinner and breakfast included
Transfer from your hotel to the starting point for your climb, and return to your hotel after your climb
All Kilimanjaro National Park gate fees, camping fees, and climbing permits
Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Rescue Team)
Basic first aid kit (for use in emergencies only)
Qualified mountain guide, assistant guides, porters, and cook
Salaries for the mountain crew as per guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Park
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as hot drinks while on the mountain
Camping equipment (tents, camp chairs, tables, and sleeping mattress)
Return transfers from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha and from Arusha to Kilimanjaro Airport