5 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour – Marangu Route to Uhuru Peak

Mount Kilimanjaro Tour Tips

- Acclimatize properly and hydrate often
- Pace yourself – “Pole Pole” (slowly, slowly) is key
- Layer clothing for changing weather conditions
- Eat energy‑rich meals to maintain stamina
- Train in advance for endurance and cardio fitness
- Hire experienced guides for safety and navigation

The Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour Marangu Route is one of the most popular ways to reach Uhuru Peak
(5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Known as the “Coca‑Cola Route,” it is the only Kilimanjaro trail
offering hut accommodations, making it more comfortable than camping routes. Over five days,
trekkers ascend through rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers, experiencing diverse
landscapes and breathtaking views. This short itinerary is ideal for adventurers seeking a condensed
yet thrilling Kilimanjaro climb.

Itineraries Expand all

Day 1: Arusha – Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut.
Your Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour begins with a transfer from Arusha to Marangu Gate. After
registration, the trek starts through lush rainforest alive with monkeys, birds, and exotic flora. The
trail gradually ascends to Mandara Hut, offering the first overnight stay in comfortable mountain
huts.
- Hiking Distance: ~8 km
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Altitude above sea level: 2,700m
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut.
On the second day of the Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour, the trail leaves the rainforest and enters the
moorland zone. Trekkers enjoy expansive views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks while passing giant
lobelias and groundsels. The day ends at Horombo Hut, a lively camp with stunning mountain vistas.
- Hiking Distance: ~12 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Altitude above sea level: 3,720m
Day 3: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut.
The third day of the Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour crosses the alpine desert, a stark yet beautiful
landscape with sweeping views of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The trek leads to Kibo Hut,
the base camp for the summit attempt.
- Hiking Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Altitude above sea level: 4,700m
Day 4: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (Summit) – Horombo Hut
Summit day is the highlight of the Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour. Starting at midnight, trekkers ascend
steep switchbacks to Gilman’s Point before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in
Africa. After celebrating at the summit, the descent continues back to Horombo Hut for overnight
rest.
- Hiking Distance: ~16 km
- Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
- Altitude above sea level: Summit 5,895m; Horombo 3,720m
Day 5: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Arusha.
The final day of the Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour is a long descent through moorland and rainforest
back to Marangu Gate. Trekkers receive summit certificates before transferring to Arusha, marking
the end of this unforgettable adventure.
- Hiking Distance: ~18 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Altitude above sea level: 1,860m at Marangu Gate