The Marangu Route is the oldest and one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, it is the only route with hut accommodations, making it a favorite for trekkers who prefer comfort over camping. The trail is relatively gentle compared to other routes, although altitude can still pose challenges. This route can be completed in 5 days, but we strongly recommend the 6-day option for better acclimatization and higher success rates.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, you will meet your head guide for a comprehensive briefing on the trek. We will review your gear and provide any necessary rentals. Enjoy dinner and a restful night as you prepare for the adventure ahead.
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Moshi
After an early breakfast, we drive to Marangu Gate, the starting point of your climb. Registration formalities will be completed while porters prepare the supplies. The trek begins through a lush rainforest, with a gradual ascent on a well-maintained trail. Along the way, you may spot colobus monkeys, colorful birds, and an abundance of flora. The hike to Mandara Hut takes about 4 to 5 hours. Once at camp, enjoy an evening walk to the nearby Maundi Crater for stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. Dinner and overnight in a wooden hut.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 8 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 11 km
After breakfast, the trail leaves the rainforest and enters the heath and moorland zone. The vegetation becomes sparse, with giant lobelias and groundsels dotting the landscape. You will trek for about 6 to 7 hours to reach Horombo Hut, located in a scenic valley with sweeping views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. At Horombo, you will find comfortable bunk beds and dining facilities. Dinner and overnight in the hut.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 6–7 hours | Distance: 12 km
If you choose the 6-day option, this is your acclimatization day. You will take a short hike to Zebra Rocks (around 4,000m) for stunning views and then return to Horombo Hut for lunch. This extra day significantly increases your summit success rate by allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the next stage of the climb.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Horombo Hut
Today’s trek is long but gradual, taking you through the alpine desert zone. The landscape becomes barren and rocky as you cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. After 6 to 7 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Kibo Hut, where you will rest and have an early dinner. Prepare your gear for the summit push and go to bed early, as the final ascent starts around midnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 6–7 hours | Distance: 10 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 4–5 hours
The summit attempt begins around midnight. Equipped with headlamps and warm gear, you will ascend slowly in the dark along switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From there, it’s a challenging but rewarding trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters. Watch the sunrise over the glaciers – an unforgettable experience. After celebrating and taking photos, begin your descent back to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 12–14 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 3–4 hours
After breakfast, continue the descent through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Here you will receive your summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi. Spend the evening relaxing at the hotel or exploring the town.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 12–14 hours
$000
The Rongai Route is unique because it approaches the mountain from the north, making it the quietest of all the routes. It is also a great option for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a less steep climb.
$000
The Northern Circuit is the longest and most scenic route, offering trekkers a comprehensive view of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. It’s a perfect choice for those who want the most time to acclimatize and enjoy breathtaking panoramas.
$000
The Shira Route starts at an already high altitude, offering an immediate immersion into Kilimanjaro’s alpine environment. It’s less frequently used than the other routes, offering trekkers a more peaceful experience. However, its higher starting point makes it slightly more challenging.
There are several routes, each with different characteristics. The Machame Route is the most popular and scenic, while the Marangu Route is the easiest and only one with hut accommodation. For a quieter climb, consider the Rongai Route. For experienced trekkers, Umbwe Route offers a more challenging ascent
There are several routes, each with different characteristics. The Machame Route is the most popular and scenic, while the Marangu Route is the easiest and only one with hut accommodation. For a quieter climb, consider the Rongai Route. For experienced trekkers, Umbwe Route offers a more challenging ascent
The typical duration is 5 to 9 days, depending on the route. The longer the climb, the better the chances of acclimatization and a successful summit.
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires physical stamina and mental preparation. While it’s not a technical climb, it can be challenging due to the high altitude. We recommend a moderate level of fitness and commitment. The difficulty varies depending on the route and how well you acclimatize.
No, you do not need technical climbing skills. However, the trek requires good physical fitness and the ability to handle altitude. If you’re a beginner, routes like Marangu or Rongai may be more suitable.
Depending on the route, you will either camp in tents or stay in mountain huts. The Marangu Route offers huts, while other routes like Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai require camping with tents.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains in the world.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains in the world.
Essential items include:
Warm clothes (even in the tropics, temperatures can drop below freezing)
Waterproof gear (jackets, pants)
Climbing boots
Sleeping bags
Sunscreen
Headlamp/flashlight
Daypack
Personal items like toiletries and medication
We will provide a detailed gear list to help you pack efficiently.
The summit success rate ranges from 60% to 90%, depending on the route, acclimatization, and physical preparedness. Routes like Lemosho and Machame tend to have higher success rates due to better acclimatization schedules.
We provide transfers from Moshi or Arusha to the starting gate of the trek. Our team will ensure smooth transport from your hotel to the departure point.
Lujoma Expeditions is a locally owned Tanzanian tour company specializing in custom safaris, cultural experiences, mountain treks, and beach holidays across East Africa.
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