5-Day Kilimanjaro Climbing Via Marangu Route

A Scenic and Rewarding Journey for Climbing Kilimanjaro [5-Day Marangu Route]

Embarking on the renowned Marangu Route, affectionately known as the “Coca-Cola route,” provides a unique experience for climbing Kilimanjaro. This popular route is celebrated for its efficiency, making it a preferred choice for many climbers seeking a shorter trek to the summit.

Unlike other routes, Marangu Route offers the comfort of permanent sleep huts at each campsite, equipped with beds and communal dining areas. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to alpine meadows, and the rocky summit zone. Despite its reputation as one of the easier routes, Marangu Route still presents a rewarding challenge, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience Kilimanjaro’s varied ecosystems.

INCLUDED & EXCLUDED

ADVENTURE ITINERARY

Arrival in Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to the hotel for overnight accommodation. Your head guide will conduct a briefing, gear check, and assist with equipment rental needs.

Overnight at a lodge or hotel in Moshi.

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

You will be transferred from Moshi, enjoying a scenic drive to Marangu Village, and then on to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Once your permits are issued, you’ll begin climbing Kilimanjaro by trekking through lush rainforests, where you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna. The trails can be slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended.

Habitat: Montane Forest

[Elevation: 9,000 ft ∼ 2,740 m, Trekking time: 4 to 5 hours].

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

In the morning, you will continue climbing Kilimanjaro by ascending through the heathland, where you can spot giant lobelias and groundsels along the way. The trail leads you into open moorlands, offering stunning vistas of Mawenzi Peak. You’ll pause for lunch amid breathtaking panoramas before reaching Horombo Huts, nestled beneath the impressive Kibo Summit.

Habitat: Heathland

[Elevation: 12,100 ft ∼ 3690 m, and Trekking time: 6 to 8 hours].

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

In the morning, you will continue climbing Kilimanjaro, traversing through the diminishing heathland to the moonscape-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Here, you’ll experience the stark beauty of the high-altitude environment and catch a glimpse of the challenging summit ascent up Kibo.

Prepare for the thin air and colder temperatures as you settle in for the night at Kibo Huts, which serve as the final base before your summit attempt. Ensure you have all your gear ready for the early morning push to the summit, as well as adequate hydration and nutrition for the high-altitude conditions.

Habitat: Alpine-Desert

[Elevation: 15,400 ft ∼ 4695 m, and Trekking time: 6 to 8 hours].

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut

You will commence the summit push for climbing Kilimanjaro in the early hours, navigating steep scree and snow toward Gilman’s Point. At midnight, you’ll begin your final ascent to Uhuru Peak, aiming to reach the summit just in time for a breathtaking sunrise. This final climb will test your endurance and reward you with stunning views from the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating your achievement, you will start your descent back to Horombo Huts for a well-deserved rest.

Habitat: Stone Scene & Ice-Capped

[Elevation: 19,340 ft ∼ 5895 m, and Trekking time: 5 to 6 hours].

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Moshi

After reaching Uhuru Peak, you will begin your descent to Mandara Hut, where you’ll stop for lunch. Following your meal, you will continue your descent to Marangu Gate. Here, you’ll bid farewell to your crew, receive your summit certificates, and then return to Moshi. Enjoy a well-deserved rest at your hotel, reflecting on your successful climb of Kilimanjaro.

[Elevation: 6000 ft ∼ 1830 m, and Trekking time: 6 to 7 hours]

Departure from Moshi

Depending on your flight time, our representative will come to the hotel to transfer you to the airport and bid you farewell. This will mark the end of your unforgettable Mt. Kilimanjaro trek. Safe travels and good luck!

Add-On

For the Arrival day (pre-hiking) and Departure day (post-hiking), you have the option to decide whether you would like us to arrange accommodation in Moshi and include it in the total Tour budget, or if you prefer to book it yourself and be excluded from the total Tour  budget. “You will let us know”.

Our Hotels in Moshi

  • ParkView Inn
  • Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
  • Panama Garden Resort

Private Gears 

  • Private Toilet

Transfer [From/To]

  • Airport Transfer [From/To]
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