Five Days Marangu Trekking

Safari summary

Embark on an exhilarating 5-day hiking journey on Mount Kilimanjaro via the classic Marangu Route in 2026–2027. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu features gentle slopes, lush rainforests, bamboo forests, and high-altitude moorlands, making it ideal for hikers seeking a scenic yet manageable ascent. Over five days, you will hike through diverse ecosystems, gradually acclimatize to higher elevations, and experience stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s alpine landscapes. This itinerary emphasizes hiking, exploration, and safe acclimatization, culminating in the unforgettable sunrise at Uhuru Peak.

Day 1: Moshi – Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Your adventure begins with a transfer from Moshi to Marangu Gate. After completing park registration and meeting your guides, you start hiking through the lush rainforest trails of Kilimanjaro. The gentle ascent allows your body to gradually adjust to the altitude while enjoying the mountain’s rich flora and birdlife. After 4–5 hours of trekking, you reach Mandara Hut for your first overnight stay. The evening is spent resting and preparing for the next stage of your journey.

Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
On the second day, the trail climbs through bamboo forests and open moorlands, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s slopes. The gradual ascent supports acclimatization and provides excellent opportunities to experience the mountain’s mid-altitude ecosystem. Hikers spend about 5–6 hours on the trail before arriving at Horombo Hut, where they rest and adjust to the altitude in preparation for the higher elevations ahead.

Day 3: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Day three involves a steady hike from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut, traversing rocky high-altitude terrain and alpine meadows. The trail requires careful pacing to conserve energy while observing the dramatic beauty of Kilimanjaro’s alpine zone. The hike takes approximately 5–6 hours, giving hikers time to acclimatize and mentally prepare for the challenging summit attempt. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, hikers rest, hydrate, and get ready for the early morning summit hike.

Day 4: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Summit day begins around midnight with a hike to Stella Point on the crater rim, continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the Tanzanian plains. After celebrating at the summit, the descent begins, retracing the trail back to Horombo Hut. This day involves 10–12 hours of hiking, testing endurance but offering an extraordinary sense of accomplishment and unparalleled views.

Day 5: Horombo Hut – Mandara Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi
The final day is a scenic descent through moorlands and forest trails back to Mandara Hut and then Marangu Gate. Hikers celebrate their achievement, receive their summit certificates, and are transferred back to Moshi. The hike takes about 4–5 hours, providing a satisfying conclusion to the adventure and time to reflect on the journey through Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystems.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Meals
• Park fees

What’s not included?

• Internal flights
• International flights
• Spa treatments