This 5-days Marangu route is also referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route, as it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope and direct path. It is the oldest and the most well established route on the Kilimanjaro. This is the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls, basic washrooms and toilet. Short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization fairly difficult.
The 5-days Marangu route is one of the most popular routes for trekking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Termed an easier route, the Marangu Route has encountered the highest failure rate due to bad preparation and untimely attempts. These situations have prompted KINAPA officials to put more emphasis and serious measures for those climbing Mt Kilimanjaro on the Marangu Route. All camps along this route have good radio communication to the park office. Some goods like mineral water, soft drinks, and chocolates are available in these camps.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Marangu Gate, 5-days Marangu route
Arrival: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to the Marangu Gate.
Accommodation: Overnight at the Marangu Hotel or similar.
Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m), 5-days Marangu route
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 840m
Time: 4-5 hours
Highlights: Begin your ascent through the lush rainforest, seeing a variety of plants and wildlife. The path is relatively gentle, and you’ll reach the Mandara Hut for your overnight stay.
Accommodation: Mandara Hut.
Day 3: Mandara Hut (2,700m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m), 5-days Marangu route
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,020m
Time: 6-8 hours
Highlights: The route continues through heath and moorland, with views of Mawenzi Peak and Mount Kilimanjaro. You will pass through a transition zone to drier, more barren terrain.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut.
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m), 5-days Marangu route
Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
Elevation Gain: 980m
Time: 6-7 hours
Highlights: The landscape changes to alpine desert as you ascend toward Kibo Hut. This is where you will rest before your summit attempt, and it’s a good idea to hydrate and rest well before the night climb.
Accommodation: Kibo Hut.
Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Summit (Uhuru Peak, 5,895m) and Descend to Horombo Hut
Distance: 19 km (12 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,195m to summit, then descend 2,195m
Time: 12-16 hours
Highlights:
Midnight Start: Begin the climb to the summit around midnight, with the goal of reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise. This is a long, tough climb through the night, passing the Crater Rim and reaching the highest point in Africa.
After reaching the summit and taking in the views, descend back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut.
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m), 5-days Marangu route
Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Time: 5-7 hours
Highlights: The descent is relatively easy, as you’ll retrace your steps back through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. You’ll be greeted by your support team and receive your summit certificate.
Note: The Marangu Route is considered less strenuous than other routes due to its gradual ascent, but the summit night climb can still be challenging. Be sure to focus on hydration and acclimatization to maximize your chances of success.
Inclusions, 5-days Marangu route
Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
Quality Mess tents Day 1
Conservation fees (part of park fees)
All transfers to the mountain and back to your Moshi hotel
Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
Clean, purified drinking water
Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
Sleeping Mattress
All meals while on the Mountain
Rescue fees (part of park fees)
Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
VAT (18% charged by the Government)
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Exclusions, 5-days Marangu route
Transfers (available as an optional addon)
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Surcharge for online payment of advance and balance (5% on each payment)
Tanzania Visa
Liquors, beers and bottled beverages