5-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
The Marangu Route, known as the “Coca-Cola route,” is the oldest and popular path up Mount Kilimanjaro, retracing Hans Meyer’s 1889 successful summit. Situated in Kilimanjaro National Park, it spans the mountain’s climatic zones, featuring tropical forest to alpine desert. Notably, it is the sole route offering dormitory-style huts for overnight stays. Ideal for the rainy seasons (mid-March to late May and late October to late December), the huts ensure a dry and comfortable experience. The Marangu route offers 5- and 6-day variations, with the latter being less challenging.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a representative will meet you for a transfer to the designated hotel. The hotel provides essential amenities, including comfortable rooms, hot water, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, a briefing with the tour managers will prepare you for the upcoming climb.
Itinerary
- Day 0: Arrival
- Day 1: Trekking From Marangu Gate To Mandara Hut
- Day 2: Trekking From Mandara Hut To Horombo Hut
- Day 3: Trekking From Horombo Hut To Kibo Hut
- Day 4: Trekking To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Horombo Hut
- Day 5: Descent From Horombo Hut To Marangu Gate
Day by Day
Day 1: Trekking From Marangu Gate To Mandara Hut
In the morning, a guide and mountain support crew will meet you at the hotel for a briefing. Subsequently, you’ll be driven to Marangu Gate (1,860m/6102f), the eastern entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park. After obtaining climbing permits and registering, the trek to Mandara Hut (2,720m/8,922f) begins. The route passes through the rainforest, and raincoats are advisable. Upon reaching the camp, the mountain support crew will handle necessities and prepare lunch. Accommodations along the Marangu route involve special huts instead of tents. Given the altitude, precautions are recommended, including abstaining from alcohol and caffeine, staying well-hydrated, and considering altitude sickness prevention. Night discomfort may occur due to acclimatization, but it’s crucial to communicate any symptoms to the guide.
Day 2: Trekking From Mandara Hut To Horombo Hut
After an early breakfast, the group departs Mandara Hut for the second high-altitude camp, Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,202f). Upon reaching the camp, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi volcanoes. Later in the day, an acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut involves a 200m/656f gain in altitude before returning to Horombo Hut for dinner. This hike is crucial for acclimatization, significantly improving your chances of a successful Kilimanjaro summit and mitigating the risk of altitude sickness. Taking these acclimatization hikes seriously is essential for your well-being and summiting success.
Day 3: Trekking From Horombo Hut To Kibo Hut
Following breakfast, the group embarks on a trek to Kibo Hut (4,720m/15,482f). While the trek itself isn’t overly challenging, maintaining a suitable pace is essential to conserve energy for the summit climb. Upon reaching the camp, lunch will be provided. It is advised to rest, avoid strenuous activities, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to prepare for the summit ascent.
Day 4: Trekking To Uhuru Peak And Descent To Horombo Hut
The group embarks on a night trek from Kibo Hut (4,720m/15,482f) to reach Kilimanjaro’s summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,336f). While the technical aspects of the trek are moderate, the high altitude adds challenge, intensifying the difficulty of regular physical activity. Each pair of climbers will have their own guide during the summit trek, closely monitoring their stamina and mental well-being. After a successful ascent, there’s an option to descend to the nearest glacier before returning to Kibo Camp. A brief rest precedes the descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,202f).
Note: The descent poses higher risks, and careful attention to foot care, especially toenails, is crucial to avoid accidents.
Day 5: Descent From Horombo Hut To Marangu Gate
After breakfast, depart with a picnic lunch for a full-day exploration of the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken volcanic caldera on earth. Witness Africa’s big five, including black rhinos, lions, buffalos, zebras, and wildebeests, among abundant wildlife. Experience the exceptional landscapes and the coexistence of Maasai tribesmen with wild animals. Depart for Arusha in the late afternoon, concluding the tour. The package includes breakfast, lunch, and drinking water, with additional beverages not included.
Tour Includes
- All Transfers
- Hotel Accommodation Before and After the Hike
- Camping Equipment
- Meals on the Hike
- Professional Guides and Porters
- Oxygen Tanks
- GPS Trackers
- Medical Check-ups, Fully-loaded Medical Kits, and In-company Doctor
- All Park Fees and Taxes
- Dedicated Support Team
- Innovative and User-friendly Travel Planning Portal
- Safe Room and Storage Room
- Leave No Trace Adventure
- Impactful Change for Local Communities
Tour Excludes
- International Flights
- Tips to the Climbing Crew
- Visa Fee
- Personal Gear Rentals
- Single Supplement (If applicable)
- Travel Insurance
- Portable Toilet
- Lunch and Dinner in the Hotel
