5 Days Marangu Route — Coca-Cola Route

Price

On Request

Best time

All year round

Trip Overview

Experience the magic of Mount Kilimanjaro on the Marangu Route, one of the mountain’s most historic and well-loved trails. Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it is the only path offering comfortable hut accommodations, making it ideal for climbers seeking a blend of adventure and comfort.

This route takes you through lush rainforests, across moorlands, and into the stark alpine desert, before reaching the snow-capped summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) the Roof of Africa. With gradual slopes and scenic diversity, Marangu offers both beauty and challenge, rewarding every step with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.

Trip Gallery

endless memory to capture

Destinations

Moshi, Marangu Gate, Mandara Huts, Horombo Huts, Kibo Huts, Uhuru Peak, Marangu Gate

What to expect

classic Kilimanjaro experience, scenic, passing through five unique climate zones

Day by day description

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel in Moshi. Take time to relax after your journey. In the evening, meet your head guide for a detailed briefing and gear check, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the climb ahead.

Accommodation

Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Huts

Altitude: 1,860 m to 2,700 m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins at Marangu Gate, where you’ll complete registration formalities before entering the lush rainforest. The trail winds through towering trees draped in moss and ferns, alive with the calls of tropical birds and playful colobus monkeys. Arrive at Mandara Huts, a welcoming cluster of wooden cabins nestled in the forest, where a warm meal and cozy evening await.

Day 2: Mandara Huts to Horombo Huts

Altitude: 2,700 m to 3,720 m
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Heathland

Leave the dense forest behind as you enter the open moorlands, where the views expand and the air feels crisp. Giant lobelias and groundsels decorate the slopes as you make your way upward. Stop for lunch along the trail and continue toward Horombo Huts, located on a scenic ridge with panoramic views of both Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks.

Day 3: Horombo Huts to Kibo Huts

Altitude: 3,720 m to 4,700 m
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trail crosses the striking Saddle, a vast, high-altitude desert between the twin peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain becomes stark and moon-like, offering a sense of awe and isolation. Arrive at Kibo Huts, your final stop before the summit. Rest early, hydrate, and prepare mentally for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Day 4: Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak, then Descent to Horombo Huts

Altitude: 4,700 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak) to 3,720 m
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours up / 6 hours down
Habitat: Arctic Summit

At midnight, begin your summit push beneath a blanket of stars. Follow your guide through scree slopes and switchbacks, ascending steadily to Gillman’s Point (5,685 m) just in time for a glorious sunrise. Continue for about an hour to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa.

Take in the panoramic views and savor this once-in-a-lifetime moment before descending carefully to Horombo Huts for a hearty meal and much-needed rest.

Day 5: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate

Altitude: 3,720 m to 1,860 m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

After breakfast, descend through the moorland and rainforest, stopping at Mandara Huts for lunch before reaching Marangu Gate. Here, you’ll receive your summit certificate, a token of your accomplishment.

A private transfer will take you back to Moshi, where you can enjoy a hot shower, dinner, and a well-deserved celebration.