Five Days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Climb from Moshi 2026 – Classic Hut Trek to Uhuru Peak
The Five Days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Climb from Moshi 2026 is the most classic and comfortable way to summit Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m / 19,341ft). Known as the famous Coca-Cola Route, Marangu is the only Kilimanjaro route that offers mountain hut accommodation instead of camping, making it ideal for trekkers seeking shelter, simplicity, and a well-established trail.
Starting directly from Moshi, the closest town to Kilimanjaro National Park, this 5-day itinerary follows a gradual ascent through rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert to the legendary Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.
Why Choose the 5-Day Marangu Route?
Only Kilimanjaro route with comfortable sleeping huts
Shortest and most direct route to the summit
Ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers
Well-maintained trail with permanent facilities
Great option for climbers with limited time
Daily meals served inside dining huts
Although shorter than other routes, proper pacing and professional guides are essential for a successful and safe summit attempt.
Route Overview
Route Name: Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route)
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Start & End Point: Moshi, Tanzania
Accommodation: Mountain huts (shared dormitories)
Difficulty: Moderate
Success Rate: Medium (improves with good fitness & acclimatization)
Best for: Beginners, budget travelers, hut accommodation lovers
What’s Included in the Climb
Park fees and hut accommodation
Professional, licensed mountain guides
Porters and cook support
All meals on the mountain
Drinking water during the trek
Transfers from and to Moshi
Rescue fees and safety equipment
Best Time to Climb in 2026
The Marangu Route can be climbed year-round, but the best months are:
January to March – warmer, quieter trails
June to October – dry season and clear views
Who Is This Climb Best For?
First-time Kilimanjaro climbers
Trekkers who prefer hut accommodation
Travelers starting from Moshi
Climbers with limited vacation time
Details
The Five Days Kilimanjaro Marangu Route Climb from Moshi 2026 offers a historic, comfortable, and straightforward way to reach Uhuru Peak. With professional local guides, proper pacing, and classic hut accommodation, this route remains a favorite for climbers seeking a traditional Kilimanjaro experience.
Altitude: 1,860m → 2,700m
Distance: ~8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
After breakfast in Moshi, you will transfer to Marangu Gate for registration and park formalities. The trek begins through lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys and exotic birdlife. The trail is gentle and well-defined, making the first day relaxed and enjoyable.
Arrive at Mandara Hut, where you will rest and enjoy your first night on the mountain. Optional acclimatization walk to Maundi Crater is recommended for views of Kenya and northern Kilimanjaro.
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Altitude: 2,700m → 3,720m
Distance: ~12 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Leaving the rainforest behind, the landscape opens into heath and moorland with wide views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The gradual ascent helps your body adjust to altitude.
Reach Horombo Hut, a large complex with spectacular mountain views. This is an important acclimatization point, and guides closely monitor your condition.
Altitude: 3,720m → 4,700m
Distance: ~10 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
The trail now enters the alpine desert zone, with thinner air and dramatic volcanic terrain. Walking becomes slower as altitude increases.
Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon. After an early dinner, you will rest and prepare for the summit push, which begins around midnight.
Altitude: 4,700m → 5,895m → 3,720m
Distance: ~16 km
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
This is the most challenging and rewarding day. The summit attempt starts shortly after midnight. Trek slowly past Hans Meyer Cave to Gilman’s Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating and taking photos at the summit, descend carefully back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Altitude: 3,720m → 1,860m
Distance: ~20 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Descend through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate before transferring back to Moshi, marking the successful completion of your climb.
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