5 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Marangu Route
- Marangu Route
Trekking Overview
Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu Route is one of the most established and well-loved trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is considered among the most comfortable paths due to its gradual slope and unique mountain hut accommodations with dormitory-style beds and shared dining areas — the only route offering this feature.
Though often seen as an easier climb, it still demands determination, fitness, and proper acclimatization. The five-day itinerary provides a compact and classic experience; however, adding an extra acclimatization day is highly recommended for a greater chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
The ascent and descent follow the same path, making it less varied scenically, but ideal during the rainy season when the warm huts are especially appreciated.
The following itinerary provides a detailed day-by-day guide to your Kilimanjaro climb, including distances, trekking times, altitude gains, and what to expect at each camp.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Moshi Town
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, our friendly driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi town. You will meet your trekking guide, who will provide a detailed briefing about the trek, including safety tips, route overview, and a gear check to ensure everything is in order. Any essential equipment you may need can be rented today. This day is designed to help you acclimatize and get mentally ready for the adventure ahead.
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Tip: Enjoy a gentle stroll around Moshi town, interact with locals, and try some local cuisine to make your first day in Tanzania memorable.
Day 2: Moshi – Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your lodge in Moshi and driven to the Marangu Gate, the starting point of your adventure. After registration and park formalities, begin your hike through lush rainforest filled with birdlife and playful monkeys. You’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, nestled among trees, where you’ll rest and enjoy your first night on the mountain. If time allows, a short walk to the Maundi Crater offers breathtaking views of the Kenyan plains.
- Distance: 8.3 km / 5.2 mi
- Hiking Time: Approx. 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,700m)
Today’s trek takes you out of the rainforest and into the moorland zone, where the air becomes cooler and vegetation changes dramatically. The trail provides stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. After 4–6 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Horombo Hut, surrounded by giant lobelias and everlasting flowers. Enjoy the mountain atmosphere as you rest and prepare for higher altitude.
- Distance: 12.5 km / 7.8 mi
- Hiking Time: Approx. 9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,700m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
A longer and more challenging trek lies ahead. You’ll cross the “Saddle,” a wide, high-altitude desert stretching between Mawenzi and Kibo. The scenery is vast and barren, offering a sense of being above the clouds. After 5–6 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Kibo Hut, your base before the summit attempt. Eat an early dinner, prepare your gear, and get some rest — the summit climb begins around midnight.
- Distance: 9.5 km / 5.9 mi
- Hiking Time: Approx. 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,700m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,700m)
This is your summit day — the most rewarding and memorable part of the climb. You’ll begin your ascent around midnight, climbing slowly under a sky filled with stars. After passing Hans Meyer Cave (5,220m), you’ll reach Gilman’s Point (5,681m) in time to witness a stunning sunrise over Africa. A final push leads you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on the continent!
After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Kibo Hut for a warm meal and short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.
- Distance: 22 km / 13.7 mi
- Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,700m) – Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the moorland and rainforest zones, enjoying your final views of the mountain. Stop for lunch at Mandara Hut (2,700m) before continuing to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro Climbing Certificate. You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi to rest, shower, and celebrate your success.
- Distance: 20.8 km / 12.9 mi
- Hiking Time: Approx. 8 hours
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
Day 7: Departure and Optional Excursions
On your final day, we ensure your adventure concludes smoothly and memorably. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will provide a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
For guests with extra time before their departure, we can arrange optional activities to make the most of your remaining hours. These may include cultural experiences, visits to nearby wildlife sanctuaries, scenic nature excursions, or relaxing opportunities to unwind after your trek. For those with extended stays, we can also assist in planning safaris or beach holidays to continue your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.
- Meals: Not included
Inclusions (What’s included in your Kilimanjaro adventure)
We ensure you are fully supported throughout your trek. Your package includes:
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Transport to and from Marangu Gate
- National Park entry fees, Hut fees, and applicable crater fees
- Rescue fees and emergency support
- Accommodation on the mountain in 4-season tents
- Double-layered sleeping mats (10 cm thick)
- Experienced, friendly guides, cooks, and porters
- Three nutritious meals per day while trekking
- Continuous access to treated and filtered drinking water
- Hot water for washing
- Fair wages for all crew, approved by KINAPA and KIATO
- Government taxes
- Portable oxygen tanks, oximeter, and first-aid equipment
- Portable flush toilet facilities on the mountain
- Official Kilimanjaro climbing summit certificate
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
Exclusions (What you’ll need to arrange yourself)
To ensure clarity, these items are not included in your trek package:
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Accommodation in Moshi before or after the trek (2 nights)
- Comprehensive travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal trekking equipment such as trekking poles, and other personal gear
- Personal items and toiletries
- Optional excursions, souvenirs, or extra activities outside the itinerary
- For clients arriving at Arusha Airport, an additional $50 for extended transfer
- Gratuities for the mountain crew – Recommended tipping guidelines are $20 per guide, $15 per cook, and $10 per porter per day per group.
Route Quote
|
Group size
|
1 Pax
|
2 – 3 Pax
|
4 -5 Pax
|
6 -7 Pax
|
8 - 9 Pax
|
10 Pax & Above
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Quote per person
|
$1800
|
$1575
|
$1425
|
$1375
|
$1325
|
$1175
|
Related Tours
- Mount Kilimanjaro
6 Days Marangu Route
- Mount Kilimanjaro
6 Days Lemosho Route
- Mount Kilimanjaro
6 Days Machame Route
- Mount Kilimanjaro
