5 Days Trekking via Marangu Route

Route Overview

The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular and easier routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route with hut accommodations rather than camping, making it a more comfortable option for trekkers. Although it is considered easier due to its gradual incline, the Marangu Route still offers a challenging ascent to the summit, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The 5-day itinerary allows for better acclimatization and an increased chance of reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak.

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts

After breakfast in Arusha, you’ll be driven to Marangu Gate, where you will complete the registration formalities. The hike begins with a walk through the dense rainforest, offering views of towering trees, giant ferns, and a chance to spot wildlife like Colobus monkeys. After a few hours, you’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, where you’ll spend the night.

Elevation: 1,870m to 2,700m (6,135ft to 8,858ft)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 8km (5 miles)
Habitat: Rainforest

Meals: Lunch & Dinner included

Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

Today’s hike takes you through the transition from lush rainforest to the open moorlands. You’ll notice the vegetation becoming sparser as you ascend, with heather and small shrubs dominating the landscape. If the weather is clear, you might catch your first glimpse of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. You’ll arrive at Horombo Hut by mid-afternoon for dinner and overnight.

Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m (8,858ft to 12,205ft)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: 12km (7.5 miles)
Habitat: Moorland

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 3: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts

After breakfast, you’ll continue your trek, crossing the alpine desert towards Kibo Hut, located at the base of the Kibo Crater wall. The landscape is stark, with rocky terrain and few signs of life. As you ascend, you’ll pass through the "Saddle", a flat area between Kibo and Mawenzi. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut in the early afternoon, where you’ll rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m (12,205ft to 15,430ft)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 10km (6.2 miles)
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Around midnight, you’ll begin the most challenging part of your climb— the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. The trail consists of steep switchbacks leading to Gilman’s Point on the rim of the crater. From there, you will continue to Stella Point and finally reach the summit, Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll begin your descent back to Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend the night.

Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m to 3,720m (15,430ft to 19,341ft to 12,205ft)
Hiking Time: 11-15 hours (Summit: 6-8 hours; Descent: 4-7 hours)
Distance: 21km (13 miles)
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 5: Horombo to Marangu Gate to Arusha

After breakfast, you’ll descend through the moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. From there, you’ll be driven back to Moshi, where you can celebrate your achievement.