5 Days Marangu Route

Route Overview

The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for being the only route that offers overnight stays in mountain huts instead of tents, it provides added comfort and is particularly favorable during the rainy season.

This classic Kilimanjaro route follows a well-established, scenic trail that passes through all of the mountain’s major ecological zones—from lush tropical rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and the breathtaking glaciers near the summit. Its gentle gradients and well-trodden paths make it appealing to many trekkers, including beginners.

Because Marangu is both popular and budget-friendly, it can become crowded during peak trekking months, especially from July to September and December to March.

While both 5-day and 6-day itineraries are available, the 6-day Marangu Route is highly recommended to allow better acclimatization, increasing your chances of a successful and enjoyable summit.

5 Days Marangu Route Itinerary

Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, your head guide will conduct a detailed trek briefing, perform a gear check, and finalize preparations for your climb.
Overnight in Moshi (Hotel).

Day 1 – Marangu Gate (1,860m) → Mandara Hut (2,720m)

Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration and park formalities. The trek begins through lush tropical rainforest, where you may spot blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and vibrant bird species. The trail is well-maintained and gradually ascends to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop.
Overnight at Mandara Hut.

Day 2 – Mandara Hut (2,720m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Distance: 12 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Continue through the last sections of the rainforest, emerging into the heather and moorland zone. From here, the views open up dramatically, revealing astonishing scenery and clear views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Arrive at Horombo Hut, a busy base shared by climbers ascending or descending the mountain.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 3 – Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Kibo Hut (4,720m)

Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The trail gradually ascends through sparse vegetation into the alpine desert. You will cross the high-altitude Saddle, a barren plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The vast, moonlike landscape offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Arrive at Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the midnight climb.
Overnight at Kibo Hut.

Day 4 – Kibo Hut (4,720m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Distance: 22 km | Hiking Time: 10–14 hours | Habitat: Arctic → Alpine Desert → Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Your summit push begins shortly after midnight. The steep ascent to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) involves switchbacks on loose scree. Upon reaching the crater rim at sunrise, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short break, then continue to Horombo Hut, where you will enjoy a warm meal and well-earned rest.
Overnight at Horombo Hut.

Day 5 – Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Marangu Gate (1,860m) → Moshi

Distance: 20 km | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Habitat: Moorland → Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Descend through moorland and the lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. After celebrating with your team, you will be transferred back to Moshi for a hot shower and relaxation.

Departure or Safari Extension

You will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight.
If desired, Auresta Tanzania Travel can arrange safari extensions to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, or a beach holiday in Zanzibar.

Included in the price

✅ 2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (Bed & Breakfast)
✅ Private transport to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
✅ Qualified, professional mountain guides and full support crew
✅ All Kilimanjaro National Park fees (conservation, camping & crew fees)
✅ 18% VAT on all tour services
✅ All camping accommodations on the mountain
✅ High-quality, four-season mountain tents
✅ All ground transport to and from the trailhead
✅ Rescue fees as required by the park authority
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
✅ Guide and porter accommodations plus their mountain entry fees
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit carried by the lead guide
✅ Emergency oxygen cylinder for altitude-related issues
✅ Sleeping mats and sleeping bags
✅ Treated, safe drinking water throughout the trek
✅ Fair wages for guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority

Not included in the price

❌ International flights
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
❌ Private portable toilet (available for $120 per group)
❌ Laundry services