5 Day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Climb
Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” the Marangu Route is one of the most established paths on Mount Kilimanjaro and the only route offering hut accommodation throughout the climb. Its gradual slopes make it a popular choice for those seeking a more direct and structured trekking experience. The route follows the same path for both ascent and descent, passing through lush rainforest, heath, and alpine zones before reaching the summit. While it is considered one of the easier routes in terms of terrain, proper acclimatization is essential for summit success. For this reason, an additional day is often recommended to improve your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. At Vaa Africa, we approach every Kilimanjaro climb with careful planning, experienced mountain crews, and a strong focus on safety, ensuring your journey is both rewarding and well supported from start to summit.
5 Day Marangu Route Overview
Arrival Day at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts (1,860 m – 2,720 m)
Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts (2,720 m – 3,720 m)
Day 3: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts (3,720 m – 4,720 m)
Day 4: Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak and back to Horombo Huts (4,720 m – 5,895 m –
3,720 m)
Day 5: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate (3,720 m – 1,860 m)
Departure Day at Kilimanjaro Internatiuonal Airport
Arrival Day: Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our Vaa Africa guide will be there to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You will then meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and a full equipment check to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb. Any missing gear can be arranged on this day.
- Overnight - Arusha Hotel/ Similar Hotel
Day 1:Marangu Gate (1860m) to Mandara Hut (2700m)
After breakfast, depart Moshi for Marangu Gate where your climb begins. Following registration, you will start your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest, surrounded by towering trees and rich birdlife. The trail gradually ascends to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop.
Elevation Gain: 840m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight - Mandara Huts
Day 2:Mandara Hut (2700m) to Horombo Hut (3700m)
After breakfast, depart Moshi for Marangu Gate where your climb begins. Following registration, you will start your trek through Kilimanjaro’s lush rainforest, surrounded by towering trees and rich birdlife. The trail gradually ascends to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop.
Elevation Gain: 840m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight - Horombo Huts
Day 3:Horombo Hut (3700m) to Kibo Hut (4700m)
Today’s trek crosses the alpine desert, a stark yet beautiful landscape between Mawenzi and Kibo. Passing the “Last Water Point,” you continue across the saddle to Kibo Hut, where you will rest and prepare for your summit attempt. An early dinner and rest are essential before the midnight climb.
Distance: 9.5km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight - Kibo Huts
Day 4:Kibo Hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo Hut (3700m)
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The climb is gradual but demanding as you make your way to Gilman’s Point at sunrise. From here, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Kibo Hut for rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut.
Distance: 22km
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight - Horombo Huts
Day 5:Horombo Hut (3700m) to Marangu Gate (1860m)
The final descent takes you back through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, you will receive your summit certificate before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
Distance: 20.8km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
- Overnight - Arusha Hotel/ Similar Hotel
Departure Day: Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport
Enjoy a relaxed morning before your transfer to the airport. Depending on your schedule, you may explore Moshi town or extend your journey with a safari or Zanzibar beach escape.
Meals: Breakfast included
Included
- All Park fees
- High quality mountain sleeping tents
- Experienced mountain guides, porters and chef
- All accommodation as per itinerary
- All meals as mentioned (B, L, D)
- Bottled drinking water during safari
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- Government taxes and VAT
Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (telephone, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks (unless specified)
- Tips and gratuities for guide, chef and porters
- Optional Tours (short safari after your climb etc)