5 days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
5 days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
- Accommodation Style: Mid-range
- You Visit: Kilimanjaro
The Marangu Route, often nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route”, is renowned for being the easiest and shortest path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro compared to other routes.
It is the only route offering mountain huts with basic comforts, including solar-powered lighting and simple beds. The huts feature communal bunk beds with sponge mattresses and pillows—60 beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 beds at Horombo Hut. Running water and shared bathrooms are available at the two lower huts.
While the standard trek takes 5 days, adding a 6th day for acclimatization is highly recommended. This extra day can be spent resting at Horombo Hut or taking an optional hike to Mawenzi Peak for better altitude adjustment.
Day 1: Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Marangu Gate – Hike to Mandara Hut
After breakfast and a briefing, embark on a scenic 1-hour drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Once registered, begin your trek through lush rainforest en route to Mandara Hut. Along the way, keep an eye out for towering eucalyptus trees, playful Colobus monkeys, and vibrant birdlife. A short detour to Maundi Crater offers breathtaking views of northern Tanzania and Kenya.
Elevation: 1,860m (6,100ft) to 2,700m (8,875ft)
Distance: 8km / 5mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Day 2: Hike from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Leaving the rainforest behind, ascend into the open moorlands, where stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks unfold. The landscape transforms with giant lobelias and groundsels dotting the terrain. As you gain altitude, you may start to feel its effects.
Elevation: 2,700m (8,875ft) to 3,700m (12,200ft)
Distance: 12km / 7.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland
Day 3: Hike from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
The trail leads you across the rugged saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi, passing the last water point. Vegetation thins into a striking “moonscape” as you approach Kibo Hut. Rest, refuel, and prepare for the challenging summit push ahead.
Elevation: 3,700m (12,200ft) to 4,700m (15,500ft)
Distance: 9km / 5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 4: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Descend to Horombo Hut
Your summit attempt begins in the early hours (12–2 AM) under a star-filled sky. The steep, scree-covered trail leads to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, followed by the final push to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point at 5,895m (19,340ft). Celebrate your achievement with unforgettable sunrise views before descending to Kibo Hut for a brief rest. Continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned night’s sleep.
Elevation: 4,700m (15,500ft) to 5,895m (19,340ft), then down to 3,700m (12,200ft)
Distance: 6km (4mi) ascent / 15km (9mi) descent
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 4-5 hours down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Hike from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Drive to Moshi
A steady descent takes you back through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Lower elevations may be muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. After signing out, a vehicle will transfer you to Moshi (approx. 1 hour), where a hot shower and celebration await!
Elevation: 3,700m (12,200ft) to 1,700m (5,500ft)
Distance: 20km / 12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Our Package Includes:
Fair & Ethical Treatment: Ethical and fair wages for porters, guides, and cooks.
Safety & Medical Support:
Medical evacuation coverage with AMREF Flying Doctors.
Mountain rescue services.
Accommodation:
2 nights in quality hotels (one before and one after the trek).
Huts or waterproof tents during the climb (mess tent & crew tents provided).
Meals & Hydration:
All meals on the mountain.
Large portions of fresh, nutritious food.
Clean, purified drinking water.
Hot water for washing daily.
Professional Team:
Highly experienced, English-speaking mountain guides.
Salaries for guides, cooks, and porters covered.
Logistics & Fees:
All park entrance fees and government taxes.
Airport transfers (arrival and departure).
Safety & Comfort:
Comprehensive management and safety procedures.
Not Included:
Tips for guides, cooks, and porters.
Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, phone calls, etc.).
Tanzania Visa on arrival.
Optional tours (e.g., short safari post-climb).
Satellite tracking device services.
Personal oxygen system (ALTOX).
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