5-Day Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking

Climb Kilimanjaro’s classic 5-Day Marangu Route with Alvin African Safaris. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” this trek offers hut accommodations, scenic trails, and a rewarding ascent to Uhuru Peak.

5 Days / 4 Nights (mountain), plus hotel stays

Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak, Marangu Gate

Trekking Overview

The Legendary “Coca-Cola Route”

The Marangu Route is Kilimanjaro’s oldest and most established trekking path. Beginning in Marangu village, this route is nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route” because of its reputation as one of the easier trails—similar to the soft, familiar feeling of sipping Coca-Cola. But is it truly the easiest? Many climbers say it’s more challenging than expected once you’re on the trail!

The Marangu Route is unique because it offers hut accommodations—dormitory-style lodging with beds and solar lighting—providing more comfort than camping. It’s a round-trip trail (ascending and descending via the same route), typically completed in 5 to 6 days.

Full Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Hotel

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport, where your Alvin African Safaris guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Later, enjoy a full trek briefing, gear check, and Q&A session.

Meals: Dinner on your own
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 2: Marangu Gate (1,980m) to Mandara Hut (2,720m)

After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate to begin your climb. The hike ascends through a lush rainforest, home to monkeys and colorful birdlife, until you reach Mandara Hut, your first overnight spot.

  • Habitat: Forest Zone

  • Distance: 8 km

  • Time: 3-4 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mandara Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Climb steadily through the heather and moorland zone, with sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks. Reach Horombo Hut in time for lunch and acclimatization.

  • Habitat: Heather & Moorland

  • Distance: 11 km

  • Time: 5-6 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,720m)

Continue through the alpine desert zone toward Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt. Rest up after lunch, and attend a detailed summit briefing.

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

  • Distance: 9 km

  • Time: 4-5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Descend to Horombo Hut

Summit day! Begin your ascent at midnight, trekking under the stars to reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Celebrate your achievement before descending back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.

  • Distance: 6 km ascent, 16 km descent

  • Time: 6-7 hours ascent, 4-5 hours descent

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (beds & solar electricity)

Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and Transfer to Hotel

Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll collect your Golden Certificate. Celebrate with your team before transferring back to your hotel for a hot shower and relaxation.

  • Distance: 18 km

  • Time: 5-6 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha or Moshi

Day 7: Departure – Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

We’ll transfer you to the airport according to your flight schedule, wrapping up your Kilimanjaro adventure with memories to last a lifetime.

Meals: Breakfast

Why Choose Alvin African Safaris?

  • Personalized itineraries built around your interests and travel style

  • Expert local guides who bring Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife to life

  • Handpicked lodges and camps for comfort and authenticity

  • Private vehicle and flexible schedules for a more personal experience

  • Trusted, family-run company with deep local knowledge and care for your journey

What’s Included

  • Accommodation as per itinerary

  • Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast at town hotels; Full Board during the Kilimanjaro climb

  • Porters to carry your luggage

  • Salaries and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks

  • Trekking poles and sleeping bag

  • Professional English-speaking mountain guide

  • Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to your hotel in Arusha

  • Drop-off at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) after the trek

  • Transfers to/from Marangu Gate for the climb

  • Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and rescue fees

  • 18% VAT for park fees

What’s Included

  • Tanzania entry visa

  • Medical insurance

  • International and domestic flights

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Non-alcoholic drinks not listed in the itinerary

  • Personal items (e.g., laundry, phone calls)

  • Tips for guides, porters, and camp staff

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