Home > Mountain Climbing > 8 Days Marangu Route (6 Days Hiking)
Mountain Climbing
8 Days 7 Nights
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Join Cheetah Chase Safaris for an exhilarating 8-day, 7-night adventure, conquering Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route.” This popular route offers hut accommodations, making it a comfortable option for trekkers. Starting from the lush rainforests at the base of Kilimanjaro to the icy summit of Uhuru Peak, the Marangu Route presents diverse landscapes and spectacular views. Our comprehensive itinerary begins with your arrival in Arusha, where you’ll rest and prepare for the climb. Over the next six days, you will journey through various ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to alpine deserts, with ample time for acclimatization. The final push to the summit will reward you with breathtaking views at the roof of Africa. Our package includes expert guides, porters, and all necessary permits and equipment. Accommodation options in Arusha cater to different budgets, ensuring a restful stay before and after your climb. This itinerary provides a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and safety, ensuring an unforgettable experience on Africa’s highest peak.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by our Cheetah Chase Safaris representative and transferred to your chosen accommodation in Arusha. For budget travelers, we recommend the Outpost Lodge; for a midrange option, the Arusha Planet Lodge; and for a luxury experience, the Arusha Coffee Lodge. Spend the day at leisure, exploring the town or resting in preparation for your climb. Overnight stay with dinner included at your selected accommodation.
Day 2: Arusha to Marangu Gate (Altitude: 1,860m) to Mandara Hut (Altitude: 2,700m)
After breakfast, you will be driven to Marangu Gate, where you will complete registration formalities. Begin your trek through the dense rainforest, covering 8 km in 4-5 hours. The trail is well-defined and moderately steep. You will reach Mandara Hut in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at Mandara Hut. Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (Altitude: 3,720m)
Today’s trek takes you through heath and moorland zones, offering spectacular views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You will cover 12 km in 6-8 hours. The trail passes through open moorlands, with giant lobelias and groundsels dotting the landscape. Dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut. Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
To enhance acclimatization, you will spend an extra day at Horombo Hut. You can take a short hike to Zebra Rocks or simply rest and enjoy the stunning scenery. This day helps your body adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of reaching the summit. Dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut. Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (Altitude: 4,700m)
The hike to Kibo Hut covers 10 km and takes about 6-8 hours. The trail passes the last water point and enters the alpine desert zone. You will walk through the “Saddle,” a flat area between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Dinner and an early night at Kibo Hut in preparation for the summit attempt. Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (Altitude: 5,895m) to Horombo Hut (Altitude: 3,720m)
Summit day begins around midnight. You will ascend 6 km to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) in 5-6 hours, then another 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak. The climb is steep and challenging, but reaching the summit at sunrise is an unforgettable experience. After a brief celebration and photos at the peak, descend 15 km to Horombo Hut, taking about 6-8 hours. Dinner and overnight at Horombo Hut. Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (Altitude: 1,860m) to Arusha
The final descent of 20 km takes 5-7 hours through the heath and rainforest zones back to Marangu Gate. After signing out, you will receive your summit certificates and be transferred back to Arusha. Spend the night at Outpost Lodge (Budget), Arusha Planet Lodge (Midrange), or Arusha Coffee Lodge (Luxury). Dinner included. Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to explore Arusha. You will then be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. Meal Plan: Breakfast.
Here, every adventure is designed around you. Instead of fixed schedules, we offer flexible itineraries that can be shaped to fit your interests, pace, and style. Our experienced travel experts will collaborate with you every step of the way, crafting a personalized journey that captures the true essence of Tanzania your way, your story, your unforgettable experience.
Tel: +255 759 945 320
Email: sales@cheetahchasesafaris.com