5-Day Marangu Route – Kilimanjaro Trek

Trek Mount Kilimanjaro in 5 days via the classic Marangu Route with Big 7 Safari Tours. Comfortable huts, scenic landscapes, and expert guides take you to the Roof of Africa – Uhuru Peak at 5,895m.

Overview

The Classic “Coca-Cola” Path to Africa’s Highest Peak

Embark on the iconic Marangu Route, famously known as the “Coca-Cola Route”, for a scenic, comfortable, and rewarding Kilimanjaro climb. This route is the only one with permanent mountain huts for overnight stays, providing added warmth and comfort on the way to the Uhuru Peak – the roof of Africa at 5,895 meters.

Ideal for experienced hikers with limited time, this 5-day itinerary is a thrilling fast-track to the summit, traversing lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and icy summit zones. With jaw-dropping views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, this adventure combines physical challenge with spectacular beauty.

✅ Hike through five distinct ecological zones

✅ Stay in cozy mountain huts with shared amenities

✅ Summit Uhuru Peak (5895m) on Day 4

✅ Explore the famous Maundi Crater and spot Colobus monkeys

✅ Trek with professional guides, cooks, and porters for full support

Day to Day Itinerary

Into the Rainforest

  • Elevation Gain: 1,840m to 2,700m

  • Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

  • Time: 3–4 hours

  • Habitat: Montane Forest

Your journey begins with a drive from Moshi to the Marangu Gate. After registration and briefing, the trek begins through lush rainforest, where you may spot Colobus monkeys and colorful birds. A short detour to Maundi Crater offers expansive views across Tanzania and into Kenya.

Overnight: Mandara Hut
Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

Rising Through the Moorlands

  • Elevation Gain: 2,700m to 3,700m

  • Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles

  • Time: 5–6 hours

  • Habitat: Heath/Moorland

Leave the rainforest behind and enter a surreal landscape of giant lobelias and open moorlands. As you ascend, catch your first glimpses of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll overnight at Horombo Hut, with sweeping views of the vast African plains below.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Crossing the Saddle

  • Elevation Gain: 3,700m to 4,700m

  • Distance: 9 km / 5.5 miles

  • Time: 5–6 hours

  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek takes you through the stark, otherworldly alpine desert. Pass the last water point and trek across the wide saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Settle in early at Kibo Hut to rest and prepare for your pre-dawn summit attempt.

Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Summit Day – Conquer the Roof of Africa!

  • Ascent: 4,700m to 5,895m

  • Descent: 5,895m to 3,700m

  • Distance: 21 km total

  • Time: 6–8 hours up / 6 hours down

  • Habitat: Arctic to Alpine

Begin your final ascent around midnight, navigating switchbacks and scree slopes to reach Gilman’s Point at sunrise. From there, push on to Uhuru Peak – the highest point on the African continent! Capture the moment, then begin your descent back to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Celebrate & Descend Through the Forest

  • Elevation Loss: 3,700m to 1,860m

  • Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles

  • Time: 4–5 hours

  • Habitat: Heath and Forest

After breakfast, trek down through heathland and rainforest back to the Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. A transfer will take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax and relive your achievement.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Map Overview !

Marangu_Route_map

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