5 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Itinerary – Marangu Route
Nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route” for its relative popularity and hut accommodations, the Marangu Route is the only path on Kilimanjaro with sleeping huts instead of tents — making it a great choice for those who prefer a bit more comfort in the wild. It’s also one of the most direct routes to the summit, which is both a blessing and a challenge: shorter trek = less time to acclimatize.
This 5-day version is fast-paced and best suited for trekkers who are already acclimated or have experience at altitude. But don’t let the name fool you — this is still a real mountain expedition. You’ll cross through rainforest, alpine meadows, and a moonscape of volcanic rock before facing the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) — the highest point on the African continent.
It’s not the easiest route, and summit success rates are lower than longer itineraries, but if you’re well-prepared, the reward is breathtaking.
Cozy Huts
Comfortable hut accommodation — no tents or sleeping on the ground.
Summit Express
A quicker route to the summit, ideal for confident trekkers with limited time.
Diverse Landscapes
Rich ecosystems: rainforest, moorland, and high-alpine desert
Trail Fellowship
Warm camaraderie with your guides, porters, and fellow climbers.
Price starts at 2090USD per person depending on the number of people per group.
- Acclimatization: This 5-day itinerary is fast — altitude sickness is a real risk. Consider extra prep or a 6-day version if time allows.
- Fitness: You don’t need to be an athlete, but good cardio fitness and mental resilience are essential.
- Gear: Layers are crucial — you’ll go from tropical warmth to freezing summit temperatures.
- Support team: Your guides and porters are the heartbeat of the trek — they’ll carry your gear, cook your meals, and cheer you on when you need it most.
- Distance: ~8 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Montane rainforest
Your journey begins at Marangu Gate, where you'll check in, meet your guides and porters, and step into the dense rainforest. The trail is well-maintained but can be muddy. The air is rich with birdsong, and if you’re lucky, you might spot blue monkeys or colobus monkeys swinging through the canopy.
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Mandara Hut, nestled in the forest. You’ll sleep in a wooden A-frame hut with basic bunk beds — no tents needed. Your first night on the mountain feels both strange and exciting — the silence, the stars, the cool mountain air.
- Distance: ~11 km
- Time: 6–8 hours
- Habitat: Heath and moorland
You’ll leave the rainforest behind and climb into the heath and moorland zone, where the trees thin out and the scenery opens up. The views stretch wide, with Mawenzi Peak – Kilimanjaro’s dramatic secondary summit – looming in the distance.
The hike is steady, with beautiful plant life and a few challenging sections. By the time you reach Horombo Hut, you’ll be feeling the altitude. Expect a chill in the air at night, but also some of the clearest skies you’ve ever seen. Drink plenty of water and go slow — the mountain rewards patience.
- Distance: ~10 km
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Today, the landscape turns raw and lunar — sparse vegetation, wind-sculpted ridges, and an eerie silence. You’ll pass the "Last Water Point" and cross the barren Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Kibo Hut is a stark, stone shelter where you'll rest for the big push ahead. It’s cold here, and you might feel the altitude more strongly — lightheadedness, mild headache, fatigue. That’s normal. You’ll eat dinner early, prepare your gear, and try to sleep — because at midnight, the real challenge begins.
- Distance: ~21 km
- Time: 12–14 hours’ total
- Habitat: Arctic summit → Moorland descent
You’ll wake around midnight and begin your slow, quiet climb by headlamp. The trail is steep, zigzagging up through volcanic scree. Every step takes effort. Your guide will be by your side, helping you push through the fatigue.
You’ll pass Gilman’s Point (5,685m) at sunrise, then continue around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak — the highest point in Africa. The views, the air, the emotion — there’s nothing else like it. After celebrating (briefly — it’s cold and oxygen is thin), you begin the long descent back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest. You climbed Kilimanjaro. That feeling will never leave you.
- Distance: ~19 km
- Time: 6–8 hours
- Habitat: Moorland to rainforest
Your final day on the trail. You’ll retrace your steps through the moorland and into the rainforest, with warm, oxygen-rich air filling your lungs. By the time you reach Marangu Gate, your legs will be tired, but your spirit will be flying.
After signing out, you’ll receive your summit certificate, take a few final group photos, and then head back to Moshi or Arusha.
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary.
- Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide.
- Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters).
- Airport Transfers.
- Meals according to the itinerary.
- Hiking and Safety Equipment.
- Drinking water and Full Board Meals.
- All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT.
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages.
- Gate Transfers.
- Government taxes.
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder.
- Flights
- Visas
- Tips to the mountain staff.
- Tips for porters and mountain crew .
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks.
- Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
- Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain.
Given the off-road terrain that will be encountered, a bike that can adequately tackle this is also essential. A gravel bike is usually a popular option for bikepacking.
8 Days Lemosho Route
Embark on an 8-day Lemosho Route trek, traversing forests, plateaus, alpine deserts, and summiting Uhuru Peak with expert support.
7 Days Machame Route
Trek Kilimanjaro’s 7-day Machame Route, crossing rainforests, moorlands, and glaciers, camping under stars, reaching Uhuru Peak with guided support.
6 Days Rongai Route
Trek Kilimanjaro’s 6-day Rongai Route, ascending through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert, summiting Uhuru Peak with expert guides and full support.
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Discover essential information for climbing Tanzania’s iconic peaks—Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Ol-Donyo Lengai, and Mount Meru. Learn about the best seasons, difficulty levels, required permits, gear recommendations, and safety tips. Whether you’re a first-time climber or experienced mountaineer, these FAQs provide guidance to help you prepare, stay safe, and make your mountain adventure unforgettable.
