5 Days Marangu Route
The Classic Kilimanjaro Climb (Coca-Cola Route)
INTRODUCTION
The 5 Days Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route”, is the most established and comfortable way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route offering dormitory-style mountain huts, making it ideal for trekkers seeking shelter, simplicity, and a well-defined trail.
This route follows the same path for ascent and descent, passing through lush rainforest, alpine moorland, and high-altitude desert before the final push to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft) — the highest point in Africa.
While the route is considered less technical, proper acclimatization and expert guidance are essential. With Kili Sky Trekking & Safari, you climb with experienced mountain professionals, ethical porter support, and carefully planned logistics to maximize safety and enjoyment.
5 Days Marangu Route Itinerary
ARRIVAL DAY: Kilimanjaro International Airport → Moshi Upon arrival, you are warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you will meet your climbing manager and head guide for a detailed briefing and equipment check. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel Meals: Dinner Altitude: 2,950 ft / 900 m
Day 1: Marangu Gate → Mandara Hut Altitude: 6,046 ft (1,840 m) → 8,858 ft (2,700 m) Distance: 5 miles / 8 km Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Habitat: Montane Forest After registration at Marangu Gate, your trek begins through dense rainforest rich in birdlife and wildlife. Watch for blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and endemic flora such as Impatiens kilimanjari. Arrive at Mandara Hut, where you may take a short acclimatization walk to the Maundi Crater for views toward Kenya.. Accommodation: Mandara Hut (Mountain Hut) Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut Altitude: 8,858 ft (2,700 m) → 12,205 ft (3,720 m) Distance: 7 miles / 11 km Hiking Time: 6–8 hours Habitat: Heathland & Moorland Leaving the forest behind, the landscape opens into heath and moorland zones. You’ll encounter giant lobelias and giant groundsels, unique to Kilimanjaro. Weather permitting, enjoy spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Peak. Accommodation: Horombo Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut Altitude: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) → 15,430 ft (4,703 m) Distance: 6 miles / 10 km Hiking Time:6–8 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert Today’s trek crosses the Saddle, a vast high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain is stark and dramatic. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, the remainder of the day is dedicated to rest, hydration, and summit preparation. Accommodation: Kibo Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut Altitude: 15,430 ft → 19,341 ft → 12,205 ft Distance: 4 miles ascent / 10 miles descent Hiking Time:Ascent: 6–8 hours | Descent: 4–6 hours You wake around 11:30 PM and begin the final ascent shortly after midnight. This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the climb. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) at sunrise, then continue along the crater rim past Stella Point to Uhuru Peak, the summit of Africa. After photos and celebration, descend to Kibo Hut for rest and breakfast before continuing to Horombo Hut. Accommodation: Horombo Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate → Moshi Altitude: 12,205 ft (3,720 m) → 6,046 ft (1,840 m) Distance: 12 miles / 19 km Hiking Time:5–7 hours Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where your guide assists with summit certificates. After tipping and farewells to your crew, you are transferred back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel, Moshi Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DEPARTURE DAY Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or onward to a safari or Zanzibar beach extension arranged by Kiliski Trekking & Safari.
Moments Along the Marangu Route
Voices from the Marangu Route
Essential Questions About the Marangu Route
Is the 5 Days Marangu Route suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Marangu Route is ideal for first-time trekkers due to hut accommodation and a well-defined trail. However, good physical fitness and mental preparation are essential.
What is the success rate of the 5 Days Marangu Route?
The success rate is lower than longer routes due to limited acclimatization. For higher success, we recommend excellent hydration, slow pacing, and experienced guides.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No technical climbing is required. The climb is a trekking expedition, but the summit night is physically demanding.
