ITINERARY OVERVIEW
The 5-Day Marangu Route offers a legendary and well-trodden path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro — Africa’s highest peak. This “Coca-Cola Route” is the only trail that offers overnight stays in rustic mountain huts, making it a popular choice for those who prefer solid shelter to tents. The route traverses five distinct ecological zones, from lush montane rainforest to otherworldly alpine desert, culminating in a thrilling midnight summit push to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters.
This extended version includes an essential acclimatization day at Horombo Hut to increase summit success while allowing adventurers to soak in the dramatic scenery of the Saddle and towering peaks. Trekkers should be in good physical shape, ready for daily hikes of 5–8 hours and the ultimate high-altitude challenge.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 0: Arrival in Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania!
- Description: Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted by our friendly team and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. Nestled at the base of Mount Meru, this vibrant safari town is the launchpad for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Rest up, meet your mountain guide, and attend a detailed trek briefing to finalize gear and logistics.
- Overnight: Comfortable hotel or lodge in Arusha
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) → Mandara Hut (2,700m)
The Journey Begins: Into the Rainforest
- Description: Kick off your trek with registration at Marangu Gate, where you’ll meet your full mountain support crew. Begin your hike through the enchanted montane rainforest — a vibrant world of ancient trees, moss-covered vines, and darting blue monkeys. The well-maintained trail leads gradually uphill to Mandara Hut, your first overnight stop tucked in a tranquil forest clearing.
- Elevation Gain: 840m
- Distance: 8 km
- Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Montane rainforest
- Overnight: Mandara Hut – Wooden alpine-style huts with bunk beds and dining shelters
Day 2: Mandara Hut (2,700m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Into the Heathlands and Moorland
- Description: Leave the rainforest behind as the trail ascends into open moorland. The scenery opens up with dramatic views of towering Mawenzi Peak and fields of giant lobelias and senecios. You’ll pass through heather-covered ridges and volcanic rock formations before arriving at Horombo Hut, perched on a windswept slope.
- Elevation Gain: 1,020m
- Distance: 12 km
- Trekking Time: 6–8 hours
- Habitat: Heath and moorland
- Overnight: Horombo Hut – Cozy stone huts with sweeping views of the summit trail
Day 3: Acclimatization Hike at Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Adapt and Explore: Altitude Conditioning
- Description: Today is a crucial acclimatization day to help your body adjust to the thinning air. After breakfast, embark on a scenic acclimatization hike toward Zebra Rocks (3,980m) or further to Mawenzi Ridge. The rugged outcrops and lava formations offer surreal photo ops. Return to Horombo Hut for a hot meal and a restful afternoon.
- Elevation Gain (optional): +260m (to Zebra Rocks)
- Distance: 5–7 km (round trip)
- Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland and rocky outcrops
- Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 4: Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Crossing the Saddle: Into the High Alpine Desert
- Description: Brace yourself for a stark and hauntingly beautiful transition into alpine desert. You’ll trek across “The Saddle,” a wide, windswept plain of volcanic scree between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The trail climbs steadily with minimal vegetation as you approach Kibo Hut, your base for summit night. Hydrate, eat well, and prepare mentally for the ascent ahead.
- Elevation Gain: 980m
- Distance: 10 km
- Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
- Overnight: Kibo Hut – Spartan stone shelters beneath the looming summit cone
Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,700m) → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Summit Push: Conquer the Roof of Africa
- Description: Your summit bid begins under the stars around midnight. Armed with headlamps and grit, ascend the zigzagging switchbacks up steep scree and volcanic ash. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) at sunrise, then continue the final push along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa! After celebratory photos and breathtaking views, begin your long descent back to Kibo, then continue to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,195m to summit, –2,175m descent
- Distance: 21 km
- Trekking Time: 12–14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic zone at the summit; descending into alpine and moorland
- Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) → Marangu Gate (1,860m) → Arusha
Descent and Celebration
- Description: Descend through heather fields and mossy rainforest on your final stretch to Marangu Gate. Celebrate your achievement with a summit certificate and bid farewell to your guides and porters. You’ll be transferred back to Arusha for a hot shower, a hearty meal, and a relaxing evening.
- Elevation Loss: –1,860m
- Distance: 19 km
- Trekking Time: 5–7 hours
- Habitat: Moorland to montane rainforest
- Overnight: Hotel in Arusha (on request)
Why Choose the Marangu Route?
- 🛖 Hut Accommodation: Sleep in solid, warm mountain huts — perfect during the rainy season.
- ⏱️ Faster Yet Scenic: Ideal for strong trekkers or those on a tighter schedule.
- 🌿 Diverse Landscapes: Traverse five ecological zones in just six days.
- 📸 Photogenic Trail: From monkey-filled rainforests to the surreal Saddle and crater rim views.
PACKAGE
Package Inclusions
Travel Handbook
Included in Package
Airport Pick up and drop off
Pre and Post Trek Hotel accommodation
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, and taxes
Q-4 season mountain tents
Transportation to and from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
3 meals per day whilst on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Excluded in Package
International flights
Traveler’s insurance
VISA
Drinks outside safari
Tipping (we recommend from $10 per person per day)