Kenya, Tanzania · Trekking

5-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Marangu Route to Uhuru Peak

5 Days Round trip from Mt Kilimanjaro Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek Africa's highest mountain via the Marangu Route, known for hut accommodations
02 Begin in lush montane rainforest with sightings of Colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife
03 Visit Maundi Crater for panoramic views of northern Tanzania and Kenya
04 Traverse diverse ecological zones including moorland, alpine desert, and glacial summit
05 Enjoy scenic vistas of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks during the ascent
06 Reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, the highest point on the African continent

Embark on a 5-day trekking expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro via the iconic Marangu Route. This well-established trail offers a unique combination of scenic beauty, gradual acclimatization, and hut-based accommodations. Traverse lush rainforests filled with Colobus monkeys and birdlife, ascend through the moorlands and alpine desert, and push toward the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Tanzania and Kenya, experience rich biodiversity, and challenge yourself physically and mentally.

Reach the summit of Africa and take in sunrise views and glacier scenery.

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

Day 01

Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut Through Montane Forest

Begin with breakfast and a briefing at your hotel.
Drive approximately 45 minutes to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate.
Complete registration formalities and begin your trek through lush montane forest.
Look out for Eucalyptus trees, Colobus monkeys, and rich birdlife.
Take an optional short hike to Maundi Crater for panoramic views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya.
Arrive at Mandara Hut for your overnight stay.
Distance: 7 kilometers.
Time: 3 hours.
Habitat: Montane Forest.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 02

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut Across the Moorland

Depart Mandara and ascend through moorland landscapes.
Notice the shift in vegetation and terrain.
Spot giant lobelias and groundsels along the trail.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Arrive at Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.
Distance: 12 kilometers.
Time: 6 hours.
Habitat: Moorland.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 03

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut via the Saddle

Continue the ascent past the last water point.
Cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Enter alpine desert terrain with little vegetation and expansive views.
Arrive at Kibo Hut, rest, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Distance: 10 kilometers.
Time: 6 to 8 hours.
Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 04

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Hut

Begin the summit push between midnight and 2:00 AM.
Climb steep scree slopes to Gilman's Point (5,685m), then continue to Uhuru Peak.
Reach the summit of Africa and take in sunrise views and glacier scenery.
Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and lunch.
Continue descending to Horombo Hut for overnight rest.
Distance: 4 kilometers up and 14 kilometers down.
Time: 10 to 15 hours.
Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

Day 05

Descend to Marangu Gate and Return to Moshi or Arusha

After breakfast, descend through moorland to Mandara Hut.
Continue through lush rainforest to the Marangu Gate.
Gaiters and trekking poles are recommended for wet and muddy conditions.
Meet your transfer vehicle at Marangu village.
Return to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Celebrate the completion of your Kilimanjaro climb.
Distance: 18 kilometers.
Time: 5 to 7 hours.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch included.

Where this trip takes you

Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut, 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 pickup and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Pre- and post-trek accommodation
Park fees, hut fees, rescue fees, and 18% VAT on tour fees and services
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
Transportation to and from the mountain gate
Three meals daily while on the mountain
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and the Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Filtered water throughout the trek

What's Not Included

Items of a personal nature
Flights
Tipping for mountain crew
Laundry services
Insurance

What to bring

Warm layered clothing for varying temperatures
Insulated jacket and fleece layers
Waterproof jacket and pants
Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots
Comfortable moisture-wicking socks (multiple pairs)
Trekking poles for support on steep and uneven terrain
Daypack with adjustable straps and hydration compatibility
Reusable water bottles or hydration bladder
High-energy snacks (nuts, energy bars, dried fruits)
Rain gear including a poncho or rain cover for your backpack
Hat for sun protection and a warm beanie for cold nights
Gloves (light and insulated pairs)
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF
Headlamp with extra batteries
Basic first-aid kit including personal medications
Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, hand sanitizer, toilet paper)
Quick-dry towel
Earplugs and sleep mask
Camera or phone with waterproof protection
Passport and necessary permits or documentation
Cash for tipping guides and porters

Know before you go

The Marangu Route is commonly known as the "Coca-Cola Route" due to its popularity and relative comfort.
It is a 5-day trek that offers hut accommodations rather than tents, making it more appealing to first-time climbers.
The trail follows a gradual ascent profile, passing through diverse landscapes including rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert.
The short duration of the trek limits the time available for altitude acclimatization.
Poor acclimatization can lead to altitude sickness and may reduce the chance of reaching the summit.
The route is physically less demanding compared to others but still requires good preparation and physical fitness.
Trekkers are encouraged to ascend slowly, drink plenty of water, and listen to their guides.
Adding an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut can improve success rates and overall comfort.
The Marangu Route is ideal for those seeking a less rugged experience but still demands respect for the mountain's altitude challenges.

Logistics