8-Days THE SUNRISE AT STELLA POINT route MARANGU

By Mi-Adventures Safari

Overview: The MARANGU Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most popular and one of the easiest paths to Uhuru Peak, Kilimanjaro’s summit. It is the only route that offers hut accommodations instead of tents, providing more comfort. This 6-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at HOROMBO Hut to increase summit success rates.

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi
• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
• Transfer to a hotel in Moshi for briefing, equipment check, and preparation.

• Overnight stay at a hotel in Moshi.

Day 2: Moshi – MARANGU Gate (1,860m) – MANDARA Hut (2,700m)
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
• Habitat: Rainforest

After breakfast, transfer to MARANGU Gate for registration. Begin the trek through lush rainforest, spotting blue monkeys and towering trees. Arrive at MANDARA Hut for rest and dinner. An optional hike to MAUNDI Crater offers the first scenic view of Kilimanjaro.
• Overnight at MANDARA Hut.

Day 3: MANDARA Hut (2,700m) – HOROMBO Hut (3,720m)
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Habitat: Moorland

Leave the rainforest and enter the moorland zone, where giant lobelias and unique vegetation thrive. The trail offers stunning views of MAWENZI and KIBO peaks. Reach HOROMBO Hut for rest and acclimatization.

• Overnight at HOROMBO Hut.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at HOROMBO Hut
• Optional hike to Zebra Rocks (4,020m).
• This extra day helps the body adjust to altitude and increases summit success rates.

Spend the day resting at HOROMBO Hut or take a short hike to Zebra Rocks, a striking rock formation.

• Overnight at HOROMBO Hut.

Day 5: HOROMBO Hut (3,720m) – KIBO Hut (4,703m)
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Trek through the alpine desert with breathtaking views. Pass the “Last Water Point” before reaching KIBO Hut. Rest early in preparation for the midnight summit attempt.

• Overnight at KIBO Hut.

Day 6: KIBO Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – HOROMBO Hut
• Hiking Time: 12-16 hours
• Distance: 22 km / 14 miles
• Habitat: Arctic

Wake up at midnight for the most challenging part of the trek. Ascend to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the Roof of Africa. Witness an unforgettable sunrise before descending back to HOROMBO Hut for rest.

• Overnight at HOROMBO Hut.

Day 7: HOROMBO Hut – MARANGU Gate – Moshi
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Distance: 20 km / 12 miles
• Habitat: Rainforest

Descend through the lush rainforest to MARANGU Gate, where successful climbers receive their certificates. Transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.

• Overnight at a hotel in Moshi.

Day 8: DEPARTURE or Optional EXCRUSION

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or continue with an optional wildlife safari or Zanzibar beach extension.