5 Day Kilimanjaro Trekking Marangu Route
Mount Kilimanjaro, the roof of Africa, stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) and is the highest free-standing mountain in the world. The Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route, is one of the most popular trails due to its gradual ascent and hut accommodations, making it a preferred choice for climbers seeking a comfortable experience. Unlike other routes that require camping, Marangu provides wooden huts with beds, making it an excellent choice for trekkers looking for shelter and convenience.
This 5-day trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests filled with monkeys and exotic birds to the rocky alpine desert and finally to the snow-capped Uhuru Peak. Despite being one of the shortest routes, it remains challenging, requiring determination, stamina, and proper acclimatization. The final summit push is done in the dead of night, offering breathtaking views of the sunrise from the peak.
If you are looking for a relatively comfortable yet challenging Kilimanjaro experience with stunning views and a rewarding summit, the Marangu Route is an excellent choice. This itinerary provides an unforgettable journey through one of the most iconic trekking routes in the world.
Day 1: Arusha/Moshi – Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Mandara Hut (2,720m)
Your adventure begins with a morning pickup from Arusha or Moshi, followed by a scenic drive to Marangu Gate, where you will register and meet your expert mountain guides and porters. After final preparations, you will start your trek through the lush rainforest, where you will encounter towering trees, exotic birds, and playful blue monkeys. The trail is gentle, making for an enjoyable first day of hiking. After 3 to 4 hours, you will arrive at Mandara Hut (2,720m), where you will have dinner and spend the night in cozy wooden huts.
Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,720m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
After a hearty breakfast, the trek continues through tall heather and moorland terrain, offering stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. The vegetation becomes sparser, and the air begins to feel thinner as you gain elevation. This is a great day for acclimatization, and along the way, you might see giant groundsels and lobelias, unique plants that thrive in Kilimanjaro’s high-altitude environment. After about 6 hours of trekking, you will arrive at Horombo Hut (3,720m), where you can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the next day’s challenge.
Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Kibo Hut (4,703m)
Today’s trek takes you across the saddle that connects Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, offering breathtaking views of the barren alpine desert. The air is much drier, and you will notice the landscape becoming rockier and more rugged. This is a critical day for acclimatization, so maintaining a steady pace and staying hydrated is essential. After approximately 5 to 6 hours of trekking, you will reach Kibo Hut (4,703m), where you will have an early dinner and rest before the challenging midnight summit attempt.
Day 4: Kibo Hut (4,703m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
At midnight, you will begin the most challenging and rewarding part of the climb—the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. The trek is steep and slow as you make your way to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), where you will witness the first signs of dawn breaking over Africa. After a short rest, you will continue along the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Reaching the summit is an unforgettable moment, and you will have time to take photos, soak in the views, and celebrate your achievement.
After enjoying the breathtaking sunrise, you will begin the long descent back to Kibo Hut, where you will rest briefly before continuing down to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for a well-deserved rest and overnight stay.
Day 5: Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Arusha/Moshi
On your final day, you will descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps toward Marangu Gate. Along the way, you will enjoy your last moments on the mountain, surrounded by the vibrant greenery and wildlife of the lower slopes. Upon arrival at the gate, you will receive your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate before being transferred back to Arusha or Moshi, marking the end of your incredible adventure.
What’s Included?
✔ Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees
✔ Hut accommodations during the trek
✔ All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
✔ Professional English-speaking mountain guide
✔ Porters and cooks to carry equipment and prepare meals
✔ Drinking water and hot drinks
✔ Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro National Park
✔ Rescue fees
What’s Excluded?
✖ International/domestic flights
✖ Tanzania visa fees
✖ Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
✖ Travel and medical insurance
✖ Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
✖ Additional snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages
Price Per Person 💰
💵 $1,600 – $2,200 (depending on group size, season, and accommodation preferences)
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