5-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Climb to Uhuru Peak

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Trek the iconic Marangu Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro
• 02 Reach Uhuru Peak at 5,985 metres above sea level
• 03 Stay in comfortable mountain huts along the route
• 04 Experience diverse landscapes from rainforest to alpine desert

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro on the famous 5-day Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route. Trek through lush rainforest, alpine zones, and volcanic landscapes while staying in comfortable mountain huts. Reach Uhuru Peak at 5,985 metres and witness a breathtaking sunrise from Africa's highest point. This guided group adventure includes experienced crew, full support, and stunning scenery from start to finish, making it one of the most accessible and rewarding Kilimanjaro climbs.

Reach Uhuru Peak at 5,985 metres and witness a breathtaking sunrise from Africa's highest point.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English, French, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arusha to Marangu Gate and Trek to Mandara Hut

• Depart from Arusha and travel to Marangu Gate.
• Complete all required formalities before beginning the trek.
• Start trekking through the thick rainforest covering the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Hike for approximately 5 to 6 hours, with chances to spot blue colobus monkeys and various bird species.
• Arrive at Mandara Hut for dinner and an overnight stay, with facilities such as solar lighting and flush latrines.

2

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut Through Forest and Alpine Zone

• Begin trekking early through the forest zone.
• Continue as the trail opens into the alpine zone.
• On clear days, enjoy views of the Kibo and Mawenzi volcanic peaks.
• Continue trekking towards Horombo Hut.
• Arrive for dinner and an overnight stay at Horombo Hut.

3

Day 03

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Across Alpine Desert

• Continue trekking towards Kibo Hut.
• Ascend gradually through alpine desert terrain.
• Reach Kibo Hut in the evening at approximately 4,130 metres.
• Prepare and rest for the upcoming summit attempt.
• Overnight at Kibo Hut.

4

Day 04

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Hut

• Just after midnight, your professional guides wake you with a cup of tea and a light meal for energy as you dress and prepare for the summit attempt.
• You begin hiking in pitch darkness for 5 to 6 hours, taking it steadily towards Stella Point before sunrise.
• From Stella Point, continue for around 2 more hours of extreme hiking to reach Uhuru Peak at 5,985 metres.
• Experience an unforgettable sunrise and panoramic views from the Roof of Africa after reaching the summit.
• Begin the descent back to Horombo Hut via Kibo Hut, making this one of the longest and most tiring days of the climb.

5

Day 05

Descend to Marangu Gate and Return to Arusha

• Enjoy your last breakfast on the mountain before beginning the descent to Marangu Gate.
• Walk approximately 19 kilometres down to Marangu Gate, which is easier compared to climbing up the mountain.
• Upon arrival at the gate, celebrate with your guides, porters, and cook for their hard work and offer tips.
• Collect your certificate of completion.
• Your driver will then drive you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for a well-deserved rest.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Park fees
• All taxes and VAT
• All activities unless labelled as optional
• All accommodation
• A professional driver or guide
• All transportation
• All meals as specified in the itinerary
• Drinks as specified in the itinerary

What's Not Included

• International flights
• Tips for the safari driver, guide, and chief
• Personal items
• Travel insurance and visa fees
• All things of a personal nature

What to bring

• Warm clothing (layers, jacket, gloves, hat)
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Daypack & duffel bag
• Sleeping bag (-10°C to -20°C)
• Headlamp/torch & sunglasses
• Water bottles (3L)
• Personal items (toiletries, sunscreen, medication)
• Passport, insurance & cash for tips

Know before you go

• The Marangu Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is the only route with hut accommodation.
• Duration: 5 days / 4 nights.
• Difficulty: Moderate but physically demanding.
• Max altitude: 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak).
• Risk of altitude sickness - proper acclimatization is important.
• All meals, guides, and porters are included.
• Best time: Jan-Mar & Jun-Oct.
• Travel insurance (high-altitude) is required.
• Tipping is customary.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Kilimanjaro International Airport, Kilimanjaro Airport Road, Tanzania

Tour start

Marangu Gate, Marangu, Tanzania

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.