Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on a 5-day trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route.” This route is renowned for its relative ease and comfort, featuring hut accommodations along the way, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a less strenuous trek while still achieving the ultimate goal of reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The Marangu Route offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to alpine desert, providing a unique experience of Tanzania’s natural beauty.
This private tour includes pick-up and drop-off from Arusha or Moshi town, with the option for airport transfers and accommodation before and after the climb available at an additional cost.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha/Moshi to Marangu Gate (1,800m) – Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, followed by a scenic drive to the Marangu Gate, where you’ll complete the necessary registration and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Afterward, the trek commences as you walk through the lush rainforest, where you may spot monkeys, exotic birds, and vibrant plant life. The well-maintained trail winds its way upward, and after about 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, where you can relax and enjoy a warm meal. The evenings in the mountains are serene, offering the perfect opportunity to stargaze and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
- Trekking time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 8 km
- Altitude gain: 900m
Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
After breakfast, you’ll set off for Horombo Hut, passing through the lush rainforest that gradually gives way to moorland. The terrain becomes more rugged, with spectacular views of the mountain and surrounding valleys. You’ll trek for approximately 6-7 hours, enjoying the scenery and the chance to acclimatize as you ascend. Upon reaching Horombo Hut, situated on a plateau with stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro, you can relax and enjoy another hearty meal prepared by your guide. This hut will serve as your base for the next two nights.
- Trekking time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 12 km
- Altitude gain: 1,020m
Day 3: Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Acclimatization Day (Optional Day Hike to Zebra Rocks)
Today is dedicated to acclimatization, an essential aspect of your journey to ensure your body adjusts to the higher altitude. After breakfast, you have the option to take a day hike to Zebra Rocks, a striking geological feature located about 3 hours from Horombo Hut. This hike allows you to explore the unique terrain while gradually acclimatizing to the altitude. Afterward, you’ll return to Horombo Hut for lunch and have the afternoon to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the final push to the summit. Your guides will conduct a pre-summit briefing to ensure you are well-informed and ready for the next day’s ascent.
- Trekking time: 5-6 hours (round trip to Zebra Rocks)
- Distance: 10 km
- Altitude gain: 0m (stay at Horombo Hut)
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m)
After an early breakfast, you’ll begin the ascent toward Kibo Hut, located at the base of the summit. This trek typically takes around 6-7 hours and traverses through the sparse vegetation of the moorland zone before entering the high-altitude desert. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged, offering breathtaking views as you approach Kibo. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you’ll have time to rest and prepare for your summit attempt. Ensure you hydrate and have a hearty dinner, as you’ll be departing in the early hours of the morning for the summit.
- Trekking time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: 10 km
- Altitude gain: 983m
Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,703m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Mweka Hut (3,100m)
The summit day begins around midnight. After a quick breakfast, you’ll begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak, navigating the steep scree and rocky path in the dark, with only your headlamp lighting the way. The trail is challenging but incredibly rewarding, as you ascend through the night. After approximately 6-8 hours of climbing, you’ll reach Stella Point on the crater rim, where the sun rises spectacularly over the horizon. From Stella Point, it’s a final hour’s walk to Uhuru Peak, where you can celebrate your achievement and take in the breathtaking views from the Roof of Africa.
After your summit celebrations, you’ll begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Mweka Hut for the night. This descent will take approximately 6-8 hours, passing through lush rainforest as you return to lower altitudes, where the temperature is significantly warmer.
- Trekking time: 12-15 hours (total ascent and descent)
- Distance: 18 km
- Altitude gain: 1,192m (ascend) / 1,603m (descend)
Inclusions:
- Pick-up and drop-off in Arusha or Moshi town
- All park entry and hut fees
- Professional guides, porters, and cooks
- All meals while on the mountain
- Hut accommodations
- Drinking water throughout the trek
- Certificate of achievement upon completion
Exclusions:
- Flights and airport transfers (available at an extra cost)
- Accommodation before and after the climb (available at an extra cost)
- Personal climbing gear (can be rented)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
