Kenya, Tanzania · Trekking

5-Day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Trek to Uhuru Peak

5 Days Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the classic and well-established Marangu Route
  • 02 Experience diverse landscapes including montane rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers
  • 03 Visit Maundi Crater for panoramic views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya
  • 04 Ascend to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters
  • 05 Observe unique flora and fauna such as giant lobelias, groundsels, and Colobus monkeys

Embark on a 5-day trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the famous Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola" route for its dormitory-style hut accommodations and gradual, steady ascent. This classic route offers a comfortable yet challenging adventure through diverse landscapes, from lush montane rainforest and scenic moorland to the barren beauty of the alpine desert. Reach the iconic Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point, with the support of experienced guides, dedicated porters, and comprehensive services including meals and accommodations.

Continue the trek towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut Through Rainforest

  • Begin the day with breakfast and a detailed climb briefing.
  • Drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate at Marangu and complete the registration formalities.
  • Start the trek through the lush montane rainforest towards Mandara Hut.
  • Take a short side trip to Maundi Crater to enjoy views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya.
  • Look out for Eucalyptus trees, various bird species, and Colobus monkeys within the forest.

Distance: 7 km hiking
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Overnight: Mandara Hut Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included

2
Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut Across Moorland

  • Leave the rainforest behind and ascend through open moorlands towards Horombo Hut.
  • Take in magnificent views of Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Summit along the trail.
  • Observe the unique alpine vegetation, including giant lobelias and groundsels.
  • Recognize the increasing altitude and stay mindful of acclimatization.

Distance: 12 km hiking
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included

3
Day 03

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut Across the Alpine Saddle

  • Ascend further past the final water point and onto the barren saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
  • Notice the transition from upper heathland into the alpine desert landscape known as the 'moonscape.'
  • Arrive at Kibo Hut for an early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit attempt.

Distance: 10 km hiking
Hiking Time: 6 - 8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included

4
Day 04

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent

  • Begin the summit ascent shortly after midnight using headlamps or flashlights.
  • Climb steadily on steep scree terrain up to Gilman's Point on the crater rim.
  • Continue the trek towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters.
  • Celebrate the achievement and capture memorable summit photographs.
  • Descend back to Kibo Hut for rest and lunch.
  • Continue descending to Horombo Hut for overnight recovery.

Hiking Time: 12 - 14 hours total (up and down)
Habitat: Alpine Desert to Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Included

5
Day 05

Final Descent to Marangu Gate and Return

  • Begin the final descent through moorland back to Mandara Hut.
  • Continue the descent through lush rainforest paths towards Marangu Gate.
  • Complete park exit formalities and meet the vehicle for transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
  • Celebrate the successful climb with your team and express gratitude through tips to guides and porters.

Distance: 18 km hiking
Hiking Time: 5 - 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch Included

End of Services

Maundi Crater, Mandara Hut rainforest, Kibo Hut alpine desert, Uhuru Peak

Where this trip takes you

Maundi Crater, Mandara Hut rainforest, Kibo Hut alpine desert, Uhuru Peak

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro 4 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Private pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Pre and post trek accommodation
  • Park fees, hut fees, and rescue fees
  • 18 percent VAT on tour fees and services
  • Four-season big sleeping mountain tents
  • Double-layered sleeping mats
  • Transportation to and from the mountain gate
  • Three meals daily while on the mountain
  • Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
  • Filtered water throughout the trek

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Tips to mountain crew
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Laundry services
  • Insurance

What to bring

  • Top base layer
  • Bottom base layer
  • 4 to 5 pairs of underwear
  • 3 to 4 short sleeve shirts
  • 1 insulated trekking pants
  • 1 to 2 long sleeve hiking shirts
  • 1 to 2 pairs of hiking trousers
  • 1 insulated winter jacket

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Hotel
Tour start
Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Mt Kilimanjaro.

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