Contact Us
Contact Us

5 Days Marangu Route

Route Overview

The 5 Days Marangu Route, also called the “Coca-Cola Route”, is the oldest and most established trail up Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the southeastern side, it is the only route with hut accommodations instead of tents, offering climbers a bit more comfort. The trek begins with a steady climb through lush rainforest before opening into heathland and moorland with sweeping views of Mawenzi Peak. While this route is considered technically easier, the shorter duration provides less time for acclimatization, making the summit push more challenging compared to longer itineraries.

As you ascend, the trail moves through diverse landscapes—from alpine meadows to the stark, lunar-like terrain of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Nights are spent in simple but comfortable A-frame huts with mattresses, dining halls, and solar lighting. The final summit attempt starts just after midnight from Kibo Hut, climbing steeply to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim and onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Roof of Africa. With its historical significance, straightforward route, and hut accommodations, the 5 Days Marangu Route is ideal for trekkers seeking a fast, classic Kilimanjaro experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,870m) to Mandara Hut (2,720m)

  • Hiking time: 4–5 hours

  • Distance: 8 km

  • Weather: Warm and humid in the rainforest; occasional showers.

  • Acclimatization: First gentle gain in altitude—walk slowly and drink plenty of water.

After registration at Marangu Gate, the trek begins through lush rainforest alive with birds and monkeys. The trail climbs gradually before reaching Mandara Hut, where you’ll spend your first night. A short side trip to Maundi Crater offers your first glimpse of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,720m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

  • Hiking time: 5–6 hours

  • Distance: 12 km

  • Weather: Cooler with bright sunshine during the day; chilly nights.

  • Acclimatization: Significant altitude gain—pace yourself and take breaks.

Leaving the forest behind, the path climbs into heath and moorland dotted with giant lobelias and senecios. Wide views open up over the plains below. By late afternoon you’ll arrive at Horombo Hut, which offers views of both Kibo and Mawenzi.

Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)

  • Hiking time: 6–7 hours

  • Distance: 10 km

  • Weather: Cold, dry, and windy in the alpine desert. Nights often drop below freezing.

  • Acclimatization: Big jump in altitude; stay hydrated and conserve energy.

Today you cross the barren alpine desert known as the Saddle, stretching between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. With little vegetation, the climb feels stark and otherworldly. By afternoon, you’ll reach Kibo Hut, the base camp for your summit attempt. Rest early and prepare for the midnight start.

Day 4: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then down to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

  • Hiking time: 11–13 hours total

  • Distance: ~16 km (ascent + descent)

  • Weather: Freezing before dawn (-10°C to -20°C); clear skies at sunrise; warmer on descent.

  • Acclimatization: The most demanding day—move slowly and breathe steadily.

Summit night begins around midnight. The climb is steep and exhausting, zigzagging up scree slopes to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From there, continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the Roof of Africa—for sunrise. After celebrating, descend carefully back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 5: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,870m)

  • Hiking time: 6–7 hours

  • Distance: 20 km

  • Weather: Warmer and humid as you descend; possible rain in the forest zone.

  • Acclimatization: No longer necessary, but knees and joints are tested on the long descent.

The final day descends through heathland and rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys and tropical birds. At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before transferring back to your hotel for a hot shower and well-earned rest.

Price

Number of PeoplePrice Per Person
1 Person$2150 USD
2–4 People$1900 USD
5–9 People$1800 USD
10+ People$1750 USD

Price Includes

✅ 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi or Arusha (before and after the trek)
✅ Private airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
✅ Professional mountain guide and full support crew (rangers, porters, cook)
✅ All Mount Kilimanjaro Park fees, hut fees, and rescue charges
✅ 18% VAT on all applicable services
✅ Accommodation in mountain huts during the trek
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
✅ Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooking staff
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit and basic medical support
✅ Katadyn-filtered drinking water throughout the climb
✅ Emergency evacuation procedures where necessary

Price Excludes

❌ International and domestic flight tickets
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Travel and medical insurance
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and cook (optional but appreciated)
❌ Personal hiking gear (clothing, boots, backpacks, etc.)
❌ Laundry services at the hotel (available at extra cost)

Scroll to Top