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Trip Overview : 5 Days Marangu Route
This 5 days Marangu Route package offers an incredible opportunity to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, while enjoying comfortable hut accommodations. Starting with your arrival in Moshi, you’ll be warmly welcomed by Arrow Trekking and Safaris’ team and prepared for the journey ahead with a comprehensive briefing. The trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and icy summit zones, providing awe-inspiring views at every turn.
The highlight is reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where breathtaking panoramas await. After achieving this life-changing feat, you’ll descend while soaking in the mountain’s varied beauty one final time. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time climber, this package is designed to provide safety, comfort, and an unforgettable adventure.
Trip Highlight : 5 Days Marangu Route
- Trek through five distinct climate zones, each offering unique flora and fauna.
- Witness breathtaking sunrises from Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point.
- Camp in scenic locations beneath starlit skies.
- Experience the vibrant culture and hospitality of Arrow Trekking and Safaris' expert team.
Itinerary : 5 Days Marangu Route
As you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly Arrow Trekking and Safaris driver will be eagerly awaiting you, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. A warm welcome and a smooth transfer to your accommodation mark the beginning of your adventure.
Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal, followed by a detailed pre-trekking briefing for your 5 Days Marangu Route by our experienced coordinators and guides. This session will prepare you for the thrilling days ahead. Relax and unwind as you soak in the excitement of the journey to come!
- Altitude: 1,970 m (Marangu Gate) → 2,720 m (Mandara Hut)
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
The adventure begins with a transfer from Moshi to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you'll register with Kilimanjaro National Park authorities while observing the vibrant activity of trekkers and porters. The trek starts through lush rainforest trails filled with vibrant flora and fauna. The path is well-defined but can be muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. Keep an eye out for colobus monkeys swinging through the trees as you ascend to Mandara Hut, where you'll spend your first night on the mountain.
- Altitude: 2,720 m (Mandara Hut) → 3,720 m (Horombo Hut)
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, the trail leaves the rainforest behind, transitioning into moorland. The landscape opens up, revealing sweeping views of the mountain. You'll pass through scenic spots like Maundi Crater, offering excellent vantage points for photography. The trek gradually ascends, allowing for proper acclimatization. You'll reach Horombo Hut in the afternoon, where you'll be treated to stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Enjoy a hot meal and rest for the night.
- Altitude: 3,720 m (Horombo Hut) → 4,700 m (Kibo Hut)
- Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
- Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trek takes you into the alpine desert zone. The trail ascends steadily, with dramatic changes in vegetation and terrain. You’ll pass the “Last Water Point,” as the trail becomes drier and more barren. The climb continues across the Saddle, a vast plateau stretching between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you'll settle in and prepare for the summit attempt. Get an early dinner and rest as much as possible.
- Altitude: 4,700 m (Kibo Hut) → 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) → 3,720 m (Horombo Hut)
- Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Trekking Time: 10-14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic Zone and Moorland
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The summit attempt begins at midnight. Equipped with headlamps, you’ll trek through the icy night, ascending steeply to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim. From here, a gradual ascent leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness a breathtaking sunrise and take celebratory photos before descending. After reaching Kibo Hut for a short break, continue to Horombo Hut for the night, exhausted but accomplished.
- Altitude: 3,720 m (Horombo Hut) → 1,970 m (Marangu Gate)
- Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles
- Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
- Habitat: Moorland and Rainforest
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The final day begins with a descent through moorland and lush rainforest, retracing your steps to Marangu Gate. The descent is rewarding, as you reflect on your journey and enjoy the vibrant vegetation. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates. Our team will then transfer you back to Moshi for a well-earned rest.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees.
- Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Tents and sleeping mats.
- Transportation to and from the mountain gate.
Excludes
- International flights and visas.
- Personal trekking gear (can be rented).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook.
- Beverages and personal expenses.
Trip Map
Gallery
What to Expect on the 5 Days Marangu Route
The 5 days Marangu Route offers a classic and comfortable way to climb Kilimanjaro, making it one of the most popular choices for first-time trekkers. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations, providing a unique experience compared to other camping-based trails.
Comfortable Hut Accommodations
Expect to sleep in shared wooden huts with beds and basic facilities, a feature unique to the 5 days Marangu Route. These huts provide shelter from the mountain weather and create a more comfortable trekking experience, especially for those who prefer not to camp.
Scenic and Diverse Landscapes
You’ll trek through five distinct ecological zones—from lush rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and arctic summit. The journey offers rich natural beauty and occasional sightings of wildlife like colobus monkeys and forest birds.
Well-Established Path
Expect a clear, well-trodden path with gentle terrain and fewer steep sections. This makes the 5 days Marangu Route ideal for beginners and those looking for a less physically demanding way to climb Kilimanjaro.
Sociable and Popular Route
Being one of the busiest routes on the mountain, you’ll likely meet fellow trekkers along the way. This creates a social atmosphere, perfect for travelers who enjoy shared experiences and making new connections.
Same Trail Up and Down
Note that the ascent and descent follow the same route, which may limit variety in scenery on the return journey. However, it also provides a sense of familiarity and easier navigation.
FAQs : 5 Days Marangu Route
What is the Marangu Route on Kilimanjaro?
The Marangu Route is one of the most popular ways to climb Kilimanjaro, known for its hut accommodations and gradual ascent. It's also referred to as the "Coca-Cola Route" due to its relative comfort and popularity.
How many days does it take to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route?
Most climbers choose the 6 days Marangu Route itinerary to increase their chances of summit success. While a 5 days Marangu Route option is available, the extra day allows for better acclimatization, which is essential when you climb Kilimanjaro.
Is the Marangu Route difficult?
The Marangu Route is considered moderate in difficulty. While it’s one of the easier routes in terms of terrain, the fast ascent profile can pose altitude challenges, especially on the 5-day version.
What makes the Marangu Route different from other Kilimanjaro routes?
Unlike other routes, the Marangu Route offers hut accommodations instead of tents, and it follows the same trail for both ascent and descent. This makes it a more comfortable and straightforward option for those new to high-altitude trekking.
What kind of accommodations are available on the Marangu Route?
Trekkers stay in wooden mountain huts with dorm-style rooms and basic amenities, making the Marangu Route unique compared to other camping-based routes on Kilimanjaro.
Is the Marangu Route good for beginners?
Yes, the Marangu Route is great for beginners who want to climb Kilimanjaro with a comfortable experience. However, it's still important to train and be aware of altitude risks.
Yes, most international visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. Tourist visas can be obtained online, at Tanzanian embassies, or upon arrival at the airport. It’s advisable to check specific visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
Visitors are typically advised to get vaccinations for yellow fever (if traveling from a yellow fever-endemic country), typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended, as Tanzania is a malaria-endemic area. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in hotels, lodges, and for safari bookings. It’s advisable to carry smaller denominations and exchange money at authorized bureaus or banks.
Yes, Mount Kilimanjaro can be climbed without technical climbing experience. However, it requires a good level of physical fitness, determination, and preparation. Guided treks with professional tour operators are essential for safety and success.
Swahili is the official language of Tanzania, and English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few Swahili phrases is appreciated and can enhance your cultural experience (greeting people with “Jambo” (hello) )
Climbing Kilimanjaro is safe with the right preparation and a reputable tour operator. Guides monitor climbers' health, and the crew ensures safety throughout the trek.
You’ll need a valid passport, a Tanzanian visa, and permits provided by your tour operator to access Kilimanjaro National Park.
The minimum age for climbing Kilimanjaro is 10 years old. There is no maximum age, but climbers should be in good health and consult a doctor before attempting the climb.
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