Tour Overview
The Marangu Route, affectionately known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the oldest and one of the most beloved paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This historic trail follows the footsteps of Hans Meyer, the first successful climber to reach Kilimanjaro's peak in 1889. As you ascend, you'll journey through the diverse climatic zones of Kilimanjaro National Park, from lush tropical rainforests to the stark beauty of alpine deserts.
One of the key features of the Marangu Route is its unique accommodation: dormitory-style huts. These huts provide a dry and comfortable resting place, making Marangu the preferred route during Kilimanjaro's rainy seasons, which run from mid-March to late May, and from late October to late December.
One of the key features of the Marangu Route is its unique accommodation: dormitory-style huts. These huts provide a dry and comfortable resting place, making Marangu the preferred route during Kilimanjaro's rainy seasons, which run from mid-March to late May, and from late October to late December.
Included/Exclude
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals (As specified)
Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fee
Tour Plan
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), an Mropean Safaris representative will greet you and provide transportation to your hotel. Your hotel stay includes all the necessary amenities for a comfortable experience—cozy rooms, hot water, friendly staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, a briefing with our team will ensure you're well-prepared for the climb.
Please Note: Check-in begins at 2:00 PM. Shared airport transfers are included for private tour packages. For individual transfers, additional fees may apply, so coordinating your group’s arrival and departure times is recommended.
In the morning, your guide and mountain support crew will meet you at the hotel for a quick briefing before heading to the eastern entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park: Marangu Gate (1,860m/6,102ft). After securing climbing permits and registering with the park authorities, the trek begins through the rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,720m/8,922ft). Tropical showers are common in this zone, so it's advisable to pack spare clothes and a raincoat. Upon arrival at the camp, our team will handle all camp setup and prepare lunch.
Important Tips: This is your first day at higher altitude, so it’s crucial to follow these guidelines:
-Drink over 4 liters of water daily, in small, frequent sips.
-Consider using high-altitude medication as a preventive measure against altitude sickness, especially in the morning before you start trekking. Consult your doctor before the trip to discuss any health concerns.
-At night, you might feel the effects of acclimatization, such as headaches. Pay attention to your body and inform your guide if you experience any symptoms.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 11 km
After an early breakfast, you'll depart Mandara Hut and continue your ascent to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,202ft). Upon arrival, you’ll be treated to stunning views of both Kibo and Mawenzi, two of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic peaks.
Later in the day, you'll embark on an acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut, gaining 200m/656ft in elevation before returning to Horombo Hut for dinner. This hike is essential for speeding up the acclimatization process, significantly improving your chances of reaching the summit.
Acclimatization Hike Details:
-Elevation Change: Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,202ft) to 3,920m/12,861ft
-Hiking Distance: 2.5 km
-Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Main Trekking Time: 6 hours
Distance: 11 km
Today’s trek takes you from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,720m/15,482ft). The trail is relatively straightforward, but maintaining a steady pace is essential to conserve energy for the summit attempt. Once at Kibo Hut, you’ll have lunch and are encouraged to rest as much as possible, avoiding strenuous activities and staying well-hydrated.
Trekking Time: 4-8 hours
Distance: 10 km
The summit push begins at midnight from Kibo Hut, as you ascend to Kilimanjaro's highest point—Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,336ft). The trek is physically demanding due to the altitude, but each pair of climbers will be accompanied by a guide to ensure safety and motivation. After reaching the summit, you may descend to a nearby glacier before returning to Kibo Hut for a brief rest. The day concludes with a descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,202ft).
Please Note: Most accidents happen during the descent, so pay close attention to your footing to avoid injuries, especially to your toenails.
Trekking Time: 9-12 hours
Distance: 16 km
After a warm breakfast, you'll begin the final descent to Marangu Gate (1,970m/6,462ft). Once at the gate, you'll receive your well-deserved certificates and have a chance to share your thoughts in the guestbook. A transfer will then take you back to the hotel.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 18 km
Enjoy a restful morning at the hotel before your transfer to the airport.
Please Note: Check-out is at 11:00 AM. If your flight is later in the day, you can extend your stay at the hotel for an additional fee.
