5 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Marangu Route
Safari Overview
The 5-day Marangu Route is the most well-known Kilimanjaro trekking route and the only one that uses mountain huts instead of camping. It is often called the “Coca-Cola Route” because it’s a classic, established trail with a steady flow of climbers and a straightforward path.
This itinerary is a shorter option for trekkers who want a direct route to the summit, passing through beautiful rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert zones before attempting the final climb to Uhuru Peak.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
After breakfast, drive from Arusha or Moshi to Marangu Gate for registration and briefing. Begin the trek through lush rainforest where you may spot monkeys and rich birdlife.
The trail is gentle and scenic as you climb steadily to Mandara Hut. In the afternoon, you can take an optional short walk to the Maundi Crater viewpoint for a first taste of the mountain scenery.
Overnight: Mandara Hut
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
After breakfast, continue trekking upward as the rainforest thins and the landscape changes into moorland with wider views. The route becomes more open and you may see giant lobelias and other unique high-altitude plants.
Arrive at Horombo Hut in the afternoon, where you will rest and enjoy views of the peaks above. This day is a key step in preparing your body for higher altitude.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Today you trek into the alpine desert zone. The environment becomes drier, cooler, and more dramatic as the trail climbs toward Kibo Hut.
You’ll arrive at Kibo in the afternoon to rest early, eat well, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt. The night will be an early one, as the summit push begins late at night.
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Day 4: Summit Day (Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak) then Descend to Horombo Hut
Around midnight, begin your summit attempt with headlamps under the night sky. The climb is slow and steady, with frequent rest stops as you gain altitude.
You will reach the crater rim at Stella Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut for overnight.
This is the longest and most challenging day, but also the most rewarding.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate then Transfer Back
After breakfast, descend through moorland back into the rainforest, continuing to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, sign out and receive your summit certificate (depending on your success at the summit).
Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha where the climb ends.
ENQUIRE NOW
INCLUDES
Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees
Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
All meals during the climb
Camping equipment (tents, sleeping tents, dining tent) for camping routes
Hut accommodation on the Marangu Route
Government taxes and conservation fees
Drinking water during the trek
Transfers between the hotel and the park gate
Summit certificate for successful climbers
EXCLUDES
International flights
Tanzania visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory for climbing)
Personal climbing gear and equipment
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, or souvenirs
Accommodation before and after the climb (unless included in package)