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 have opted for the optional airport transfers, we will pick you up from either Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
Upon arrival at the hotel, we will have a pre-trek briefing, where we’ll discuss the upcoming days and review your equipment. If needed, you can also rent any required gear.

Day 1: Hotel to Mandara Hut
After breakfast and a briefing, we drive to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (about 1 hour). After registration, we begin our ascent through the rainforest towards the Mandara Hut. You can also take a side trip to Maundi Crater to enjoy the panoramic views of Northern Tanzania and Kenya. As you walk through the rainforest, keep an eye out for towering Eucalyptus trees, birds, 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
We leave the rainforest behind and ascend onto the open moorlands, heading toward the Horombo Hut. The views of Mawenzi and Kibo are stunning, and you’ll see giant lobelias and groundsel plants along the way. The altitude may begin to affect you, so be mindful of any signs of altitude sickness.

  • 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: Rest Day at Horombo Hut
Today is a rest day at Horombo Hut. This is important for acclimatization. You have the option to take a short hike near Mawenzi Peak to help your body adjust to the altitude.

  • Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft
  • Distance: 0km/0mi
  • Hiking Time: 0 hours
  • Habitat: Heathland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
We continue our ascent, passing the last watering point and walking across the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi. The vegetation starts to fade as we enter the “moonscape” terrain. After dinner, we rest and 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 5: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
We start our summit attempt very early in the morning (between midnight and 2 am). The climb is steep, with heavy scree or snow as we make our way to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. From there, we continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you’ll enjoy unbelievable views. After taking photos at the summit, we begin our descent, stopping for lunch at Kibo Hut before continuing to Horombo Hut.

  • 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 6: Horombo Hut to Moshi
After breakfast, we descend steadily through the moorlands back to Mandara Hut. We then continue down the lush forest path to the Marangu Gate. The descent can be wet and muddy at lower elevations, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Once we reach the gate, a vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi.

  • 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.
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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.