5 Days Marangu Route Kilimanjaro
5 Day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Overview
The 5 Day Marangu Route Kilimanjaro, known as the Coca Cola Route, is one of the most popular ways to climb Kilimanjaro. As the oldest and most established trail on Mount Kilimanjaro, it offers a comfortable Kilimanjaro trek with hut accommodation instead of camping. This Kilimanjaro hike follows a gradual ascent through rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and the arctic summit zone. Trekkers enjoy stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, as well as the scenic Maundi Crater. Ideal for those seeking an accessible route to climb Kilimanjaro, the 5 Day Marangu Route combines comfort, breathtaking landscapes, and a rewarding summit experience.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts
After breakfast in Arusha, drive to Marangu Gate (1,905m) for registration before starting your Kilimanjaro trek. Hike through lush rainforest, passing streams and waterfalls, with lunch at Kisamboni picnic site. Continue to Mandara Huts (2,723m) for your overnight stay. An early start helps avoid crowds and ensures comfortable hut accommodation.
Altitude Gain: 818m | Distance: 8.3km | 4 to 5 hrs
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Today is a Kilimanjaro hike takes you from the dense rainforest into the scenic moorland zone. As you gain altitude, enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the snow-capped summit of Kibo. After lunch on the trail, continue to Horombo Huts (3,721m), where a warm welcome with popcorn and hot drinks awaits. Relax and take in the spectacular sunset before dinner and a briefing for the next stage of your Kilimanjaro trek.
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Altitude Gain: 998m | Distance: 11km | Time: 6 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Today Kilimanjaro trek leads across the stark alpine desert toward Kibo Hut (4,720m), the final base camp before the summit attempt. Trek through the vast saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, where vegetation disappears and dramatic volcanic landscapes dominate the horizon. After lunch at Kibo Hut, spend the afternoon resting and preparing for your midnight summit climb. Hydrate well, enjoy an early dinner, and get some sleep before the final push to Uhuru Peak.
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Altitude Gain: 993m | Distance: 9km | Time: 6 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Summit day begins just after midnight with a challenging ascent from Kibo Hut toward Gilman’s Point (5,719m), passing the historic Hans Meyer Cave. After a short rest, continue across snowfields to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa and the ultimate reward of your Kilimanjaro climb. Take time to celebrate and capture unforgettable photos before descending to Kibo Hut for lunch and recovery. Later, continue down to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for dinner and a well deserved overnight rest after the most demanding day of the trek.
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Altitude: 4,720m to 5,895m to 3,720m
Distance: 21 km | Time: 12 to 14 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
After breakfast at Horombo Hut, begin your final descent on this memorable Kilimanjaro trek. The trail passes through scenic moorland and lush montane rainforest as you make your way back to Marangu Gate (1,860m). Enjoy a picnic lunch before receiving your official summit certificate for reaching Gilman’s Point or Uhuru Peak. Celebrate your achievement with the mountain crew before transferring back to Arusha for a hot shower, dinner, and a well earned rest.
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Altitude Lost: 3,720m to 1,860m
Distance: 20 km | Time: 6 to 7 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Cost includes
Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Pre & Post Trek accommodation in Moshi
Park fees, hut fees, rescue fees and 18% VAT on tour fees & services which cost nearly 75% of the total cost charged
Accommodation while on the Mountain
Sleeping Mats
Transportation to & from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks and porters
3 meals daily while on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
Oxygen tank
Cost Excludes
Flights/Bus
Items of a personal nature
Laundry Services
A doctor for the group
Tips to mountain crew