5 Days Marangu Route

Marangu route which is also known as the coca cola route is the least expensive route to the summit. This is also the only route with the comforts of sleeping huts at every camp site with solar lights and comfortable beds.

The huts are communal, and the bunks have a sponge mattress and pillow.

There are 60 beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 beds at Horombo Hut. Bathrooms and running water are available at the two lower huts. Mens’ and ladies’ latrines are available at the last camp but are very basic.

All climbing groups, often from several countries around the world, share meals in dining huts providing a jovial and energetic atmosphere.

This route is usually done in 5 days (shortest route to the summit) but can be done in 6 days for better acclimatization. The extra day can be spent resting at Horombo or climbing the small peak of Mawenzi.

Itinerary

Day 0: Pre-Trek Briefing
If you’ve chosen the optional airport transfer, we’ll pick you up from either Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
Once at the hotel, we’ll have a pre-trek briefing. It’s recommended that you arrive at least one day before the trek begins. During this time, we’ll review your equipment and provide assistance in renting any necessary gear.

Day 1: Hotel to Mandara Hut
After breakfast and briefing, we’ll drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1 hour). After registration, we begin the climb, walking through the rainforest towards the Mandara Hut. Along the way, a side trip to Maundi Crater offers stunning views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. In the rainforest, keep an eye out for towering Eucalyptus trees, diverse birdlife, and Colobus monkeys.

  • Elevation: 1860m/6100ft to 2700m/8875ft
  • Distance: 8km/5mi
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Montane Forest
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Leaving the rainforest behind, we ascend onto the moorlands. As we walk, views of Mawenzi and Kibo summit become clearer. Keep an eye out for the unique giant lobelias and groundsel plants. You may begin to feel the effects of the altitude at this point.

  • Elevation: 2700m/8875ft to 3700m/12,200ft
  • Distance: 12km/7.5mi
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Heathland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Today, we pass the last water point and begin walking on the saddle between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. The vegetation thins as we move into a more barren “moonscape” terrain. After dinner and rest, we prepare for the summit climb.

  • Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 4700m/15,500ft
  • Distance: 9km/5.5mi
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
We begin the ascent to the summit very early (between midnight and 2 am). This steep climb takes us through heavy scree or snow to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. From here, we continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where the views are breathtaking. After celebrating at the summit and taking photos, we descend, stopping for lunch at Kibo Hut before continuing down to Horombo Hut for rest.

  • Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft (Summit)
  • Down to: 3700m/12,200ft
  • Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 6-8 hours down
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Moshi
After breakfast, we descend steadily through the moorland back to Mandara Hut. We then continue descending through the lush forest to the National Park Gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are helpful. You’ll likely be comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt, but it’s a good idea to keep rain gear and warmer clothing on hand.
A vehicle will be waiting for you at the gate to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi (around 1 hour).

  • Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
  • Distance: 20km/12.5mi
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Forest
  • Meals: Breakfast

Price Includes

  • Four-Season Sleeping Tents: Twin-sharing, waterproof mountain tents.
  • VAT (18%): Included in the package cost.
  • Rescue Fees: Covered as part of park fees.
  • Meals on the Mountain: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
  • Transfers: Round-trip from Moshi hotel to mountain gate.
  • Nutritious Food: Fresh, healthy meals prepared by mountain chefs.
  • Professional Guides: Experienced, licensed guides for a safe climb.
  • Purified Drinking Water: Provided daily.
  • Sleeping Mattress: Comfortable mats for restful sleep.
  • Conservation Fees: Included in park fees.
  • Mess Tents: Dining tents with tables and chairs.
  • Summit Certificate: Awarded to all who reach Stella Point or Uhuru Peak.
  • Camping Fees: Included in park fees.
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder: For high-altitude safety.
  • Staff Salaries and Fees: Fair wages and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks.
  •  

Price not Includes

  • Alcoholic and Bottled Beverages: Not included.
  • Online Payment Surcharge: 5% on advance and balance payments.
  • Tanzania Visa: To be arranged by the traveler.
  • Travel Insurance: Not provided.
  • Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, and other personal costs.
  • Flights: International and domestic airfare.
  • Tips and Gratuities: For guides, porters, and staff.
  • Hotel Accommodation: Available as an optional add-on.
  • Personal Trekking Gear: Sleeping bags, boots, and clothing (available for rent).
  • Unlisted Meals: Any meals not specified in the itinerary.
  • Optional Transfers: Available upon request.