5 Days Marangu Route

Classic Kilimanjaro Trek

Why Choose the Marangu Route?

Overview:

The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and one of the most popular trails to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It begins in Marangu village, home to the Chagga people, and winds through the inner part of Kilimanjaro National Park. This route is often considered the easiest due to its gradual ascent and hut accommodations, which provide dormitory-style lodging with beds and solar electricity. The trail is used for both ascent and descent, typically requiring 5 to 6 days.

Day To Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro

Transfer from KIA/Arusha Airport to Hotel

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) or Arusha Airport, a representative from Charles Tours will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for relaxation and a detailed trekking briefing.

Day 2: Trekking Begins – Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Marangu Gate (1,980m) to Mandara Hut (2,720m)

Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation Gain: 740m
Hiking Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours (Polepole – slow pace)
Flora & Fauna: Towering trees, ferns, blue monkeys, Colobus monkeys, Turacos
Accommodation: Mandara Hut – Dormitory beds, solar electricity

After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate for registration and permit processing. Begin the trek through the lush rainforest, leading to Mandara Hut. In the afternoon, you may explore Maundi Crater for stunning views of Mawenzi Peak.

Day 3: Ascending to Higher Grounds – Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Mandara Hut (2,720m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Habitat: Heather & Moorland
Elevation Gain: 1,000m
Hiking Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Flora & Fauna: Lobelia, Giant Senecio, sunbirds, white-necked ravens
Accommodation: Horombo Hut – Dormitory beds, solar electricity

The trek continues through moorland with scenic views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut, where you will rest and acclimatize.

Day 4: Approaching the Summit – Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,720m)

Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation Gain: 1,000m
Hiking Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Flora & Fauna: Sparse vegetation, white-necked ravens
Accommodation: Kibo Hut – Dormitory beds, solar electricity

Begin trekking across the Saddle, a barren, lunar-like terrain between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Reach Kibo Hut for early rest before the summit push.

Day 5: The Summit Push – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak & Descent to Horombo Hut

Kibo Hut (4,720m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Descend to Horombo Hut

Habitat: Arctic Zone
Elevation Gain: 1,175m ascent, 2,175m descent
Hiking Distance: 6 km ascent, 16 km descent
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours ascent, 4-5 hours descent
Flora & Fauna: None
Accommodation: Horombo Hut – Dormitory beds, solar electricity

Depart Kibo Hut at midnight for the summit push, reaching Uhuru Peak in time for sunrise. Enjoy breathtaking views before descending to Horombo Hut.

Day 6: Completing the Trek – Descend to Marangu Gate & Transfer to Hotel

Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,980m) & Transfer to Hotel

Hiking Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive a summit certificate. Transfer to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha for relaxation and celebration.

Day 7: Departure – Farewell Tanzania

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) or Arusha Airport for your flight home.

Included in Kilimanjaro Trekking

Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks
Park fees, camping/hut fees, and rescue fees
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Drinking water and hot beverages during the trek
Airport transfers and transportation to/from the park gate

Excluded from Kilimanjaro Trekking:

International and domestic flights
Personal trekking gear (e.g., sleeping bags, trekking poles)
Travel insurance and medical evacuation coverage
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Personal expenses (e.g., snacks, beverages, souvenirs)

What Makes This Uniquely “You”

Hut Comfort: Sleep in beds (not tents!) with solar power.
Cultural Connection: Interact with Chagga porters, Kilimanjaro’s indigenous guardians.
Proven Success: 65% summit rate (vs. 45% on shorter routes).