6-Day Kilimanjaro Hiking – Marangu Route: The Best Tour for 2025/2026/2027
The Best 5-Day Kilimanjaro Climbing on the Marangu Route – 2025
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the only Kilimanjaro climbing trail with hut accommodations, making it a popular choice for climbers seeking a comfortable and relatively easy trek to the summit. This five-day adventure combines scenic beauty, gradual elevation, and an unforgettable experience. The Marangu Route is perfect for those looking for a shorter and straightforward path to Africa’s highest peak.
Why Choose the 5-Day Marangu Route?
Comfortable Hut Accommodations: Unlike other routes, the Marangu Route offers mountain huts with dormitory-style sleeping quarters, providing shelter and comfort from the elements.
Shorter Duration: A 5-day trek, perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a quicker ascent.
Gradual Ascent: With a gradual climb, this route reduces the physical demand, making it suitable for beginners.
Incredible Scenic Diversity: From tropical rainforest to alpine desert, experience all Kilimanjaro’s unique climate zones in just five days.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Moshi
Arrival: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi.
Briefing: Attend a pre-trek briefing with your guides to discuss the journey ahead, check your gear, and prepare for the climb.
Accommodation: Overnight at a hotel in Moshi.
Day 2: Moshi to Mandara Hut
Elevation: 1,870m to 2,700m (6,135ft to 8,858ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest After breakfast, you’ll drive to the Marangu Gate for registration before starting your trek through the dense tropical rainforest. Spot wildlife like colobus monkeys as you hike to Mandara Hut, where you’ll spend the night. Optional short walk to the Maundi Crater for incredible views of the surroundings.
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m (8,858ft to 12,205ft)
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Moorland Your journey continues through moorland terrain. As the landscape changes, you’ll notice towering giant groundsels and lobelias. The climb offers stunning views of Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Crater as you approach Horombo Hut for your second night on the mountain.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m (12,205ft to 15,430ft)
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert A challenging day as you ascend through the alpine desert, surrounded by dramatic volcanic formations. The air is thinner, and the terrain becomes more rugged as you make your way to Kibo Hut at the base of the summit.
Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (15,430ft to 19,341ft), then descend to 3,720m (12,205ft)
Distance: 19 km (12 miles) total (up and down)
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic zone to Moorland Wake up around midnight for your final ascent. The trek to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) is steep and challenging, with rocky terrain and freezing temperatures. After reaching Gilman’s, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend back to Kibo Hut for a rest, then proceed to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,870m (12,205ft to 6,135ft)
Distance: 20 km (12 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest After a good night’s sleep, enjoy a leisurely descent through the lush rainforest back to the Marangu Gate. You’ll receive your summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest at your hotel.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or to your next adventure.
Package Inclusion & Exclusions
Inclusion
Guide, Porters
Park Fees, Tax
Gate transfer
Crew wages
Environment fees
Camping throughout you climb!
Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
Drinking water
Cook
Exclusion
Flights
Tipping the crew
Visas
