The best (Five)5-day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route on 2025,2026-2027
The best (Five)5-day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route on 2025,2026-2027 is the fastest way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, often called the “Coca-Cola Route” due to its popularity and relatively easier path. This route provides hut accommodation, making it more comfortable than camping routes. Though shorter, it requires solid acclimatization, with breathtaking views of the rainforest, alpine desert, and glaciers. The route includes a summit attempt on the final night, reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) before descending.
The best (Five)5-day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route on 2025,2026-2027 Day By Day Itinarary.
Day 1 of The best (Five)5-day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route on 2025,2026-2027: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Distance: 8 km
Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation: 1,860m to 2,700m
Landscape: Rainforest
The trek starts at Marangu Gate through dense rainforest to Mandara Hut. Along the way, you may spot monkeys and exotic plant life.
Day 2 of The best (Five)5-day Kilimanjaro Marangu Route on 2025,2026-2027: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Distance: 12 km
Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m
Landscape: Moorland
You leave the rainforest behind and enter moorland. The trail offers stunning views, and Kibo Peak becomes visible in the distance. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 3 : Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Distance: 10 km
Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m
Landscape: Alpine desert
Climbing higher, the landscape turns rocky and barren, and the air gets thinner as you approach Kibo Hut. Rest is crucial as this is the final stop before the summit push.
Day 4 : Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Descend to Horombo Hut
Distance: 15 km ascent, 15 km descent
Time: 10-14 hours
Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then back to 3,720m
Landscape: Alpine desert and glacier
The summit attempt begins around midnight. After a strenuous trek through the arctic zone, you reach Gilman’s Point and then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After enjoying the summit, descend back to Horombo Hut for rest.
Day 5 : Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Distance: 20 km
Time: 5-7 hours
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
Landscape: Moorland to rainforest
The final day is a descent through the moorland and rainforest to the gate, where climbers receive certificates for their achievement. Afterward, you return to Moshi or Arusha.
