Safari Overview
Climb Africa's highest peak on the Marangu Route, sleeping in mountain huts from rainforest to the summit at Uhuru Peak.
The Marangu Route is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodation throughout, which is why it is often called the 'Coca-Cola' route. Over five days you climb from the rainforest at Marangu Gate through moorland and alpine desert to Kibo Hut, then make a night ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 metres to watch sunrise over Africa. Experienced mountain guides and porters support you all the way, and you descend to collect your summit certificate on the final day. It is a challenging trek suited to fit, well-prepared walkers who want a direct route with the comfort of huts.
Highlights
- Summit attempt on Uhuru Peak, Africa's highest point
- Hut accommodation at Mandara, Horombo and Kibo
- Rainforest, moorland and alpine desert zones
- Maundi Crater and views of the Kibo glaciers
- Summit certificate on completion
Ideal for: Fit and well-prepared hikers seeking a direct Kilimanjaro climb with hut accommodation. Extra acclimatisation days are recommended for a better summit chance.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Pick-up in Moshi and transfer to Kilimanjaro National Park. Meet your mountain guide at Marangu Gate and hike 5–6 hours through lush rainforest, where black and white colobus monkeys are often seen. Overnight at Mandara Hut, which has solar lighting and flush toilets.
An early start for a long day of more than 11 km, climbing out of the forest into the alpine zone past Maundi Crater. In clear weather there are fine views of the Kibo glaciers. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Climb almost 1,000 metres, passing the last water point at around 4,130 metres, to reach Kibo Hut in the afternoon. Drink plenty of water, have an early dinner and rest before the summit attempt.
Wake just after midnight for hot tea and a snack, then climb by torchlight for 5–7 hours to Stella Point on the crater rim. A further push of around two hours brings you to Uhuru Peak for sunrise and panoramic views. Descend via Kibo Hut to Horombo Hut, a demanding day of 12–16 hours on foot.
After a celebratory breakfast, descend almost 20 km to Marangu Gate. Collect your summit certificate, thank your guides and porters, and transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Accommodation: Mountain huts: Mandara Hut (1 night), Horombo Hut (2 nights) and Kibo Hut (1 night).
What's Included
Included
- Transfers between Moshi and Marangu Gate
- Hut accommodation on the mountain as outlined
- Full-board meals on the mountain
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees
- Professional mountain guide and porters
- Drinking water on the trek
- All applicable taxes
Not included
- International flights
- Visas
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Tips for guides, cooks and porters
- Travel insurance with high-altitude cover
- Personal expenses
Prices
| Per Person | Price (US$) |
|---|---|
| 1-4 Pax per person | 1980 |
| 5 to more pax | 1820 |
Rates are per person sharing, by group size, season and accommodation level. SRS = single room supplement. Prices are a guide and are confirmed at the time of booking.
Map & Destinations
Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
The driest and most popular trekking months are January to March and June to October. Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the long rains (April to May) make conditions wetter.
You do not need technical climbing skills, but you should be in good health and comfortable walking 5 to 8 hours a day for several days. Training walks before you travel and a medical check are strongly recommended.
Yes. We can adjust the travel dates, length, destinations, pace and activities to suit you.
Yes. We can quote for upgraded lodges and tented camps, subject to availability on your dates.
Yes. We can add domestic flights, a Kenyan coast or Zanzibar beach stay, or extra safari days before or after this itinerary.
Lightweight neutral-coloured clothing, warm layers for early mornings, comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars and a camera. See our Safari Travel Information page for a full checklist.
5 Days
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10 DaysReady for your 5 Days Marangu Route Kilimanjaro Trekking?
Tell us your travel dates and group size and our safari team will send a personalised quote. Every itinerary can be customised.
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Flying Dove Safaris creates memorable East African safari experiences across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zanzibar.
Safaris
Destinations
Experiences
Company
From the Coast
Start Planning Your Safari
Flying Dove Safaris creates memorable East African safari experiences across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zanzibar.
