Embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the renowned Marangu Route, often affectionately known as the “Coca-Cola” route due to the availability of soft drinks in the huts along the way. This 8-day, 7-night adventure is perfect for both seasoned climbers and those new to high-altitude trekking, offering a steady and manageable ascent through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to the barren, lunar-like landscape near the summit. The Marangu Route is the only route on Kilimanjaro that offers accommodation in mountain huts, providing a more comfortable experience with shelter from the elements, as well as dining halls and proper beds at each stop.

This route is known for its high success rate, largely due to its gradual altitude gain, which allows for better acclimatization. Approximately 80-90% of climbers who attempt Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route reach the summit, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance between challenge and comfort. The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons from late June to October and from December to mid-March, when the weather conditions are most favorable. However, the Marangu Route can be climbed year-round due to its hut-based accommodations, which provide protection against the unpredictable mountain weather.

With Way 2 Africa Expeditions, your journey will be guided by a team of experienced professionals who prioritize your safety, comfort, and success on this epic climb. As you ascend, you'll pass through verdant rainforests, explore the stunning moorland zone, and experience the awe-inspiring views from the high-altitude desert, culminating in the exhilarating final push to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). Each day brings new challenges and incredible rewards, from the vibrant flora and fauna to the breathtaking panoramic views that only Kilimanjaro can offer. This carefully curated itinerary not only ensures a successful summit attempt but also enriches your experience with cultural insights, comfortable accommodations, and optional activities that make this more than just a climb—it's an adventure of a lifetime.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your Zayla Tours representative and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, a vibrant town nestled at the foot of Mount Meru. Arusha serves as the gateway to your Kilimanjaro adventure, offering a serene environment to rest and prepare for the climb ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you might explore the local markets, visit cultural landmarks, or simply unwind at your hotel.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Meru House Inn
• Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
• Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge

Meal Plan: Dinner at your accommodation.

Extra Activities: Local market tour, visit to the Cultural Heritage Centre.

Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

• Altitude: 1,870m (6,135ft) to 2,720m (8,923ft)
• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest

Your Kilimanjaro adventure officially begins today as you depart from Arusha and drive to the Marangu Gate, where you will complete the necessary registration. The hike starts with a gentle ascent through a lush rainforest, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, vibrant flora, and possibly spot blue monkeys and colobus monkeys along the way. The trail is well-maintained, making for a comfortable introduction to the climb. Your destination for the day is Mandara Hut, located in a forest clearing near the upper edge of the rainforest. Upon arrival, you can take a short walk to the Maundi Crater for stunning views of the nearby plains and, on clear days, the summit of Kibo.

Accommodation: Mandara Hut (Mountain Hut)

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Arusha accommodation, Lunch en route, Dinner at Mandara Hut.

Extra Activities: Evening walk to Maundi Crater, acclimatization walk around Mandara Hut.

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

• Altitude: 2,720m (8,923ft) to 3,720m (12,204ft)
• Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, characterized by giant heathers and the unique giant groundsels and lobelias that thrive in this cooler climate. The trail offers panoramic views of the mountain as it winds through grassy ridges and past volcanic rock formations. As you gain altitude, you’ll notice a significant change in the landscape, with fewer trees and a more open environment. Horombo Hut, your next stop, provides a stunning vantage point with views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. This camp is bustling with climbers from various routes, creating a lively atmosphere for the night.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Mountain Hut)

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Mandara Hut, Lunch en route, Dinner at Horombo Hut.

Extra Activities: Acclimatization walk around the hut, photography of the surrounding peaks.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut

• Altitude: 3,720m (12,204ft) to 4,000m (13,123ft) (and back)
• Distance: 5 km (3 miles) round trip (optional)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

Acclimatization is key to a successful summit, and today is dedicated to helping your body adjust to the altitude. You’ll have the option to take a short hike to Zebra Rocks or further up to the Mawenzi Ridge, both of which offer stunning views and valuable acclimatization opportunities. This day is crucial as it helps to increase your chances of reaching the summit by allowing your body to adapt gradually to the lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes. After the hike, you’ll return to Horombo Hut to rest and prepare for the next day’s ascent.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Mountain Hut)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner at Horombo Hut.

Extra Activities: Hike to Zebra Rocks or Mawenzi Ridge, relaxation and socializing with fellow climbers.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

• Altitude: 3,720m (12,204ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft)
• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek leads you across the stark alpine desert, a landscape of minimal vegetation and dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. The air becomes thinner as you approach Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt. The trail is gradual but can be exhausting due to the increasing altitude. You’ll pass the “Last Water Point” at 4,200m, where you’ll fill your water bottles for the journey ahead. Kibo Hut is situated at the base of Kibo’s crater wall and provides a resting point before the final push to the summit. You’ll have an early dinner and go to bed early, as the summit attempt begins around midnight.

Accommodation: Kibo Hut (Mountain Hut)

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Horombo Hut, Lunch en route, Dinner at Kibo Hut.

Extra Activities: Rest and preparation for the summit night.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

• Altitude: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,204ft)
• Distance: 18 km (11 miles) round trip
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
• Habitat: Arctic to Moorland

Summit night begins around midnight, with a steep and strenuous climb towards Gilman’s Point at 5,681m (18,638ft) on the crater rim. This is the most challenging part of the trek, with freezing temperatures, strong winds, and the effects of altitude making each step difficult. However, the reward is worth the effort. As you reach Gilman’s Point, you’ll witness the first light of dawn breaking over the horizon. From here, the trail continues along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After a brief celebration and photos at the summit, you’ll begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend the night, exhausted but elated from your achievement.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Mountain Hut)

Meal Plan: Light breakfast at Kibo Hut, summit snacks, lunch at Kibo Hut, dinner at Horombo Hut.

Extra Activities: Photography at the summit, reflecting on the achievement.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

• Altitude: 3,720m (12,204ft) to 1,870m (6,135ft)
• Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest

The final day on Kilimanjaro takes you back down through the moorland and into the lush rainforest as you descend to the Marangu Gate. The trail offers a gentle descent, allowing you to reflect on your journey and savor the last moments on the mountain. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you will sign out and receive your summit certificates, a proud memento of your achievement. After bidding farewell to your guides and porters, you’ll be transferred back to your accommodation in Arusha for a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation Suggestions:

• Budget: Meru House Inn
• Midrange: Mount Meru Hotel
• Luxury: Arusha Coffee Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Horombo Hut, Lunch en route, Dinner at Arusha accommodation.

Extra Activities: Optional massage therapy at the hotel, souvenir shopping in Arusha.

Day 8: Departure

After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Arusha or simply relax before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your incredible Kilimanjaro adventure with Way 2 Africa Expeditions, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Meal Plan: Breakfast at Arusha accommodation.

Extra Activities: Last-minute shopping, visit to the local market or coffee plantation tour (time permitting).

Our pricing structure is generally calculated on a per-person sharing basis, unless otherwise indicated. Please note that the listed prices are approximate and may be subject to adjustment:

All rates depend on availability and may change without prior notice. If you prefer single accommodations, additional fees may apply. We encourage you to reach out for a customized quote or connect with our Tanzania Safari Experts to receive the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information

Inclusions in the Itinerary:

• Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
• All accommodation as specified in the itinerary
• All meals as specified in the itinerary
• Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
• Park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
• All necessary trekking equipment (tents, sleeping mats, etc.)
• Certificates of accomplishment for reaching the summit
• Drinking water throughout the trek

Exclusions from the Itinerary:

• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Personal trekking gear (e.g., sleeping bags, trekking poles, clothing)
• Tips for guides, porters, and cook
• Optional activities in Arusha (e.g., market tours, spa treatments)
• Any additional accommodation or meals before and after the itinerary
• Visas and vaccinations