7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing on Marangu Route with Kilimanjaro Centre for Trekking and Ecotourism (KCTE)

Embark on a life-changing adventure to the summit of Africa's highest peak, Mount , with and Ecotourism (KCTE). Known as the “Roof of Africa,” Kilimanjaro stands proudly at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). Our meticulously crafted 7-day itinerary on the Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route, combines striking natural beauty with cultural richness, promising an unforgettable expedition. Here's your chance to conquer new heights and witness the world from above the clouds.

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly KCTE representatives will greet you with warm smiles and transport you to your selected hotel in Moshi. Choose from our list of handpicked accommodations suitable for various preferences and budgets, detailed on our accommodation page. Relax and rejuvenate, for tomorrow your adventure begins.

Day 1: Moshi to Mandara Hut

  • Elevation: 1,860 m to 2,700 m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Rise and shine! After a hearty breakfast, we drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu. Here, we complete park formalities before embarking on our trek. The first segment through the lush rainforest is teeming with vibrant wildlife and exotic flora. The gentle trail to Mandara Hut offers a comfortable start to your , and the evening is capped with a sumptuous dinner before you tuck in for the night.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

  • Elevation: 2,700 m to 3,720 m
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat:

Your journey continues upwards through the diminishing forest line into the striking moorland zone. Here, giant heathers and lobelias begin to emerge. The expansive views of the East side of the mountain provide a breathtaking backdrop as you approach Horombo Hut. This day proves a bit more challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Day 3: Horombo Hut (Acclimatization day)

  • Elevation: 3,720 m
  • Distance: 5 km (optional)
  • Trekking Time: 1-2 hours (optional)
  • Habitat: Moorland

Acclimatization is key to a successful summit. Spend the day around Horombo Hut, with optional short treks to the nearby Mawenzi Ridge, offering spectacular views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The unique vegetation and the clearer, thinner air define this landscape, preparing your body and mind for the ascent.

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

  • Elevation: 3,720 m to 4,700 m
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Trek through the barren alpine desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain changes dramatically as vegetation becomes sparser. This segment introduces you to the high-altitude climate, with Kibo Hut situated at the base of Kibo peak. Rest early, as the next day involves an early start for the summit.

Day 5: Kibo Hut to to Horombo Hut

  • Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m (summit), down to 3,720 m
  • Distance: 6 km ascent + 16 km
  • Trekking Time: 6-8 hours ascent + 4-5 hours descent
  • Habitat: Arctic

Depart around midnight for the challenging summit push. Zigzag up steep scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim, witnessing an unforgettable sunrise that illuminates the vast landscape below. Another hour of hiking brings you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After relishing your accomplishment, descend to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Moshi

  • Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,860 m
  • Distance: 18 km
  • Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Your final day on the mountain begins with a descent through moorland to Mandara Hut, where a lush forest trail leads you back to Marangu Gate. Here, we collect summit certificates and drive back to Moshi, where a warm shower and comfortable bed await at your hotel.

Day 7: Departure Day
Bask in the glow of your achievement as we transport you from the hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Reflections on this monumental experience are sure to fill your journey back.

What's Included:

  • Pick-up from and drop-off to the airport.
  • All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees.
  • Experienced mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
  • All on the mountain.
  • Overnight stays in mountain huts.
  • Transfer to and from the mountain.

What's Not Included:

  • Flights and visa fees.
  • Personal gear and equipment.
  • for guides and crew.
  • Personal expenses.

For a detailed and further information, or to customize this itinerary, please contact us at info@mt-kilimanjaro.com or call us at +255 753 700 700. Book your climb with KCTE today and stand atop the Roof of Africa!