Marangu (Coca-Cola) Route – 5-Day Kilimanjaro Adventure

Day 2 is a longer and more challenging hike, covering 11km to Horombo Hut. The journey usually takes 7-8 hours, so it’s important to start early. After breakfast, you’ll set out, passing the beautiful Maundi Crater with its stunning panoramic views. As you continue your ascent, you’ll leave the dense forest behind and enter the moorland zone, where the landscape changes to more open terrain dotted with alpine plants. The hike is physically demanding, but the scenery along the way is truly rewarding. You’ll pause for a delicious hot lunch at a designated rest stop before continuing to Horombo Hut. This is your second night on the mountain, and after reaching the hut, you’ll have time to relax, take in the stunning views of Kilimanjaro, and prepare mentally for the next leg of the journey. The guides ensure a steady pace that suits everyone, making sure you're well-rested and ready for the summit ahead.

Day 3 marks a significant increase in altitude as you leave the moorland zone behind and venture into the alpine desert. This hike covers a distance of 9km, typically taking 5-6 hours. The landscape becomes even more dramatic as you ascend, with fewer plants and more rocky terrain. The climb is strenuous, but the views are awe-inspiring. You’ll take a break for lunch along the way, enjoying a hot meal before continuing your trek to Kibo Hut. It’s essential to maintain a steady pace to conserve energy, as you’ll need to rest and be fully prepared for your summit attempt, which will begin later that night. After arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll have an early dinner, and your guide will go over the details of the summit attempt, emphasizing the importance of proper pacing and mental preparedness. This is an important night, and you’ll want to rest as much as possible before the final ascent.

Summit day is the ultimate test of determination and endurance. You’ll wake up around midnight, have a light snack and a hot drink, and begin your ascent to the summit. The first part of the climb is steep, as you make your way up to Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. From there, you’ll continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895m. The journey is physically demanding, and the altitude will test your limits, but the reward is worth every step. As you reach Uhuru Peak, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views and the satisfaction of achieving your dream of summiting Kilimanjaro. After a moment to celebrate and watch the sunrise, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing your descent to Horombo Hut. This is a long day, covering 21km and taking around 15 hours of hiking, but the expertise of your guides will ensure that you maintain the right pace for success and safety.

On the final day of your Kilimanjaro adventure, you’ll descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, a distance of about 19km. The descent is much easier on your body since it’s downhill, but you’ll still want to take your time and enjoy the last leg of the journey. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you’ll be greeted with a sense of accomplishment and celebration, marking the successful completion of your climb. You’ll enjoy a celebratory lunch at the gate before being transferred back to your hotel in Moshi. The end of your journey will be filled with pride as you reflect on your incredible achievement of reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, and you'll return home with memories of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

On your final day, after breakfast, you’ll begin the descent to Marangu Gate, covering about 19km. The hike down will be easier, as you are descending rather than ascending. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll enjoy a celebratory lunch.

After completing your climb, Serengeti Wildlife Safaris recommends tipping your mountain crew to acknowledge their hard work and dedication throughout the trek.

Return to Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest, or head straight to the airport if you are catching a flight.