- Arusha, Tanzania
- info@tobikoadventures.com
Climb Kilimanjaro via the 5-day Marangu Route—perfect for those seeking a shorter, scenic trek with mountain hut comfort. Reach Uhuru Peak and experience Tanzania’s legendary mountain with expert guides.
The 5-day Marangu Route is the perfect option for trekkers who want to climb Kilimanjaro with the comfort of sleeping in mountain huts. Often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” it’s the only path offering shared accommodation in wooden cabins, making it ideal for first-timers or those seeking an easier logistics experience. Though this version skips the extra acclimatization day offered in the 6-day itinerary, it still provides breathtaking landscapes—from lush rainforest to rugged alpine desert—and the unforgettable summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
With expert mountain guides and a supportive crew, this route combines challenge, beauty, and camaraderie in a shorter timeframe.
“Kilimanjaro isn’t just a climb—it’s a journey through every layer of Earth, ending at the stars.”
Rainforest Vibes and Mountain Beginnings
Start Elevation: 1,860m
End Elevation: 2,700m
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Montane Rainforest
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate, where your permits are issued and the team assembles. From here, begin your trek through dense rainforest filled with colobus monkeys and exotic birdlife. Enjoy a peaceful pace as you approach Mandara Hut, your resting point for the night.
Optional: A short walk to Maundi Crater offers stunning views toward Kenya on clear days.
Accommodation: Mandara Hut
Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner
Into the Heather Zone and Wide-Open Views
Start Elevation: 2,700m
End Elevation: 3,700m
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: Heathland
Leave the forest behind and ascend into moorland, where the trail winds through rolling hills covered in heather and strange high-altitude plants like giant lobelias. Along the way, the twin peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi come into view—reminders of the journey still ahead.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Crossing the Saddle to High Camp
Start Elevation: 3,700m
End Elevation: 4,700m
Distance: 9 km / 5.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
Today’s route crosses the vast, rocky expanse of the Saddle—an arid, high-altitude desert flanked by Mawenzi and Kibo. With fewer trees and cooler air, the trail feels more exposed and dramatic. Arrive at Kibo Hut by mid-afternoon to rest, eat early, and prepare for your midnight summit attempt.
Tip: There’s no water source at Kibo Hut—fill up at Horombo before departure.
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Sunrise on the Roof of Africa
Ascent Elevation: 4,700m → 5,895m
Descent Elevation: 5,895m → 3,700m
Total Distance: 21 km / 13 miles
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Zones: Arctic & Moorland
Around midnight, begin your slow, steady ascent under a sky full of stars. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) is steep and demanding, but watching the sun rise from here is truly magical. From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. After celebrations and summit photos, descend back to Horombo Hut for a hot meal and deep rest.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Celebrating the Climb
Start Elevation: 3,700m
End Elevation: 1,860m
Distance: 20 km / 12 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Zone: Rainforest
Your final trek takes you back through the lush rainforest as you descend to Marangu Gate. Collect your summit certificate and celebrate your incredible journey. Afterward, transfer back to Moshi for a warm shower and some well-earned rest.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready to explore Tanzania’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes? Let Tobiko Adventure craft your perfect journey. Book now and let the adventure begin!
