Climb Kilimanjaro in 5 Days Marangu Route
Set out on an incredible adventure with our 5-Day Marangu Route Climb up Kilimanjaro, where excitement and natural beauty come together seamlessly. As you ascend this iconic peak, you’ll relish the thrill of conquering one of Africa’s highest mountains while soaking in the stunning landscapes. Our thoughtfully designed itinerary strikes a perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment, allowing you to appreciate the diverse ecosystems of Kilimanjaro. From the verdant rainforests at the base to the surreal, lunar-like scenery at higher elevations, each day offers new views and accomplishments. Accompanied by our expert guides, who are well-versed in the Marangu Route’s nuances, you’ll receive insightful commentary and ensure your safety. With comfortable accommodations and well-planned rest stops, this climb is ideal for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Join us for an unforgettable 5-day journey on the Marangu Route, where every step brings you closer to the summit and an experience that will stay with you forever. Conquer Kilimanjaro with style!
The Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route, is the oldest and most established route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is unique for offering sleeping huts along the way, making it a favored choice for climbers who prefer more comfort. Known for being the easiest and most direct route to the summit, it boasts a success rate of approximately 80%.
Highlights of the 5-Day Marangu Route Climb:
- Day 1: Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Marangu Gate (1,830m) and then to Mandara Hut (2,700m).
- Day 2: Hike from Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m).
- Day 3: Proceed from Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,703m).
- Day 4: Climb from Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descend back to Horombo Hut.
- Day 5: Return from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
What to Expect:
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness. You’ll hike several hours each day, and the altitude can add to the challenge. With proper training and preparation, you can reach the summit in 5 days.
What to Pack:
Pack warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a backpack for your essentials. Hiring a porter to carry your gear is recommended, allowing you to concentrate on the climb. We provide a comprehensive packing list and advice on what to bring.
Day 0: Initial Orientation
If you’ve arranged for airport transfers, we’ll pick you up from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transport you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. We recommend arriving at least a day before your trek. On this day, you’ll receive a pre-trek briefing at your hotel, where we’ll review your gear and assist with any necessary rentals.
Day 1: From Hotel to Mandara Hut
After breakfast and the briefing, we’ll drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1-2 hours). After registration, we’ll start the climb through the rainforest to Mandara Hut. A side excursion to Maundi Crater offers stunning views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. Look for Eucalyptus trees, bird species, and Colobus monkeys along the way.
- Elevation: 1830m/6000ft to 2700m/8875ft
- Distance: 8km/5mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Depart the rainforest and climb through open moorlands to Horombo Hut. Enjoy panoramic views of Mawenzi and Kibo, and keep an eye out for giant lobelias and groundsel. You may start to feel the effects of the altitude.
- Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
- Distance: 12km/7.5mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Heathland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Continue your ascent past the last water source and reach the Kilimanjaro saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The landscape transitions from upper heathland to a barren “moonscape.” Prepare for the summit climb after dinner and rest.
- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
- Distance: 9km/5.5mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit and Back to Horombo Hut
Start your summit climb early (midnight to 2 am), navigating steep scree or snow to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Kibo for lunch and rest, then proceed back to Horombo Hut.
- Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,341ft, then down to 3700m/12,200ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 6-8 hours down
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Arusha
After breakfast, descend steadily through moorland to Mandara Hut, and then follow a lush forest path to the Marangu National Park Gate. Lower elevations may be wet and muddy. A vehicle will be waiting at the gate to drive you back to your Moshi hotel (about 1 hour).
- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
- Distance: 20km/12.5mi
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions:
- Transfers to and from the mountain and your hotel in Moshi
- Professional and experienced mountain guides
- Salaries for guides, porters, and cooks, as well as park fees
- High-quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (shared)
- Sleeping mattress
- Emergency oxygen cylinder
- All meals during your trek
- Quality mess tents with tables and chairs
- Generous portions of fresh, healthy, and nutritious food
- Clean, purified drinking water
- Conservation fees (included in park fees)
- Camping or hut fees (included in park fees)
- Rescue fees (included in park fees)
- VAT (18% as mandated by the government)
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Exclusions:
- Tanzania visa
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel accommodation (optional add-on)
- Transfers (optional add-on)
- Personal trekking gear such as sleeping bags, hiking boots, clothing, etc. (available for rent)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls, beverages, etc.)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages, including liquor, beer, and bottled drinks
- Online payment surcharge for advance and balance (3.5% per payment)
- Solo Trekker: USD 1810 per person
- Group of 2: USD 1716 per person
- Group of 3: USD 1662 per person
- Group of 4: USD 1638 per person
- Group of 5: USD 1600 per person
- Group of 6: USD 1573 per person
- Group of 7: USD 1558 per person
- Group of 8: USD 1544 per person
- Group of 9: USD 1500 per person
- Group of 10 or more: USD 1420 per person