Itinerary Overview

Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” the Marangu Route is the only trail offering hut accommodations instead of tents. This classic path takes you through lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert to the summit of Africa’s highest peak—Uhuru Peak.

Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Mandara Hut (2,700 m)

After breakfast and a briefing, drive to Marangu Gate for registration. Begin your trek through the rainforest, rich with towering trees, ferns, and playful monkeys. Arrive at Mandara Hut for dinner and overnight.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~8 km

• Habitat: Montane forest

Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Depart Mandara and climb steadily through moorland, with views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Pass giant lobelias and heathers before reaching Horombo Hut, where you spend the night.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~12 km

• Habitat: Heath and moorland

Day 3: Acclimatization at Horombo Hut

Today is set aside for acclimatization. Take a day hike to Zebra Rocks (4,000 m) or further up toward Mawenzi Hut. This extra day helps your body adjust to the altitude, greatly increasing your chances of a successful summit.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours (optional hike)

• Distance: ~5–7 km

• Habitat: Moorland

Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

Continue ascending past the last water point and across the barren alpine desert known as the “saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Arrive at Kibo Hut to rest and prepare for the night-time summit attempt.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

• Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut

Just after midnight, begin the final ascent. Trek slowly in the dark past Hans Meyer Cave to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend carefully back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut.

• Hiking time: 12–15 hours total

• Distance: ~22 km

• Habitat: Arctic summit, alpine desert, moorland

Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi/Arusha

After breakfast, complete your descent through the lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificates, meet your driver, and return to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~20 km

• Habitat: Moorland and montane forest