Best five days Marangu Route

Safari summary

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is one of the most iconic trekking experiences in Africa. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it offers a gentler gradient, scenic trails, and unique hut accommodation making it ideal for climbers seeking both challenge and comfort. Over five meaningful days on the mountain, you journey through lush rainforest, high-altitude moorland, and alpine desert, all the way to the snows of Uhuru Peak. This itinerary blends adventure with cultural warmth, professional guiding, and the rewarding feeling of pushing your boundaries in a safe and supportive environment.

Day 1: Mandara Hut

• Details: After an early breakfast, pick up from your hotel in Moshi and transfer to Marangu Gate. The trek begins through the lush rainforest, ascending gradually to Mandara Hut at 2,700 m / 8,858 ft. The walk takes approximately 4–5 hours. After lunch at the hut, take a short walk nearby Maundi Crater to explore the surroundings. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Mandara Hut.
• Altitude: 1,870 m / 6,135 ft to 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
• Walking Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest
• Accommodation: Overnight at Mandara Hut
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Leaving Mandara after breakfast, you begin a steady climb through the last stretch of rainforest before emerging into rejuvenating heath and moorland. As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and views open toward the snowy summit above. The trail is gentle but consistent, allowing you to settle into a comfortable trekking rhythm.
On arrival at Horombo Hut, you’ll enjoy a warm lunch, rest, and take in sweeping views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Evenings here are peaceful, marked by early dinner and stargazing before bed.
• Altitude: 2,700 m to 3,720 m
• Distance: ~12 km
• Walking Time: 6–8 hours
• Habitat: Moorland
• Accommodation: Overnight at Horombo Hut

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Today’s trek leads you across a stark and beautiful high-alpine desert. With reduced vegetation and a more rugged landscape, the scenery feels otherworldly. You’ll follow a gradual incline, crossing the Saddle—a vast, open plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo.
The air becomes thinner, so the pace is slow and steady. On arrival at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest, hydrate, and prepare for the upcoming summit attempt. Dinner is early, and you head to bed before sunset to gain as much rest as possible.
• Altitude: 3,720 m to 4,703 m
• Distance: ~9 km
• Walking Time: 5–6 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
• Accommodation: Overnight at Kibo Hut

Day 4: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then down to Horombo Hut

Summit day is the most demanding and the most rewarding of the entire trek. You’ll wake around midnight for a warm drink and begin the ascent by torchlight. The climb to Gilman’s Point is steep and mentally challenging, but dawn breaks as you approach the crater rim, offering one of the most inspiring sunrises you will ever witness.
From Gilman’s Point, the trail continues to Uhuru Peak—5,895 m, the highest point in Africa. Standing on the summit is an emotional moment: a mixture of pride, exhaustion, and awe.
After photos and celebration, you descend back to Kibo for a hot lunch and a well-deserved rest before continuing downward to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.
• Altitude: 4,703 m to 5,895 m, then down to 3,720 m
• Distance: ~21 km
• Walking Time: 12–15 hours
• Habitat: Arctic (summit) to Moorland
• Accommodation: Overnight at Horombo Hut

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

Your final day on the mountain takes you back through the moorland and into the lush rainforest, where the sounds of birds and rustling leaves welcome you back to lower altitude. The descent is gentle but long, giving you time to reflect on the journey you've just completed.
At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and enjoy a celebratory moment with your mountain crew. Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi for a well-earned shower and rest.
• Altitude: 3,720 m to 1,870 m
• Distance: ~20 km
• Walking Time: 6–7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest
• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
. Accommodation: Overnight in Moshi.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	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
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• All drinks
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas