5 Days Marangu Route

Transportation
Bus
Accomodation
Hotels
Maximum Altitude
1,860 meters (6,102 feet) above sea level
Departure from
Kilimanjaro international Airport
Best season
Feb, Marc, Apr & May&June,July, November,December
Tour type
Eco-Tour, Hiking
Meals
All meals during the trek
Language
English, Spanish, French.
Fitness level
Easy to Moderate
Group Size
2-40
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

The 5-day Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular and oldest routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its relative comfort, this route is the only one that offers hut accommodations along the trail, providing trekkers with dormitory-style sleeping shelters and dining halls—making it ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.

The journey begins at the Marangu Gate (1,860 m) and ascends steadily through lush rainforest to the Mandara Hut. As you progress, the scenery shifts dramatically from dense tropical forest to the open heath and moorland of Horombo Hut. The third day includes a hike to Kibo Hut through the alpine desert, preparing climbers for the summit push. On the fourth day, trekkers begin the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), reaching the summit in time for a breathtaking sunrise over Africa.

While the route is considered one of the “easier” paths due to its gradual slope, the 5 day itinerary allows less time for acclimatization compared to longer treks, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness. Nevertheless, it remains a favored choice for adventurers seeking a shorter yet scenic climb with basic amenities and a direct route to the summit and back.

Route Highlights

Direct Route to the Summit
Enjoy the amazing view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar
Hut Accommodation Instead of Tents
Diverse Scenic Landscapes

Day 1 :

Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m)

After registration and briefing at Marangu Gate, begin your ascent through the lush montane rainforest. The trail is well-maintained and shaded by towering trees, with the chance to spot blue monkeys and exotic birds. After 4–5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Mandara Hut where you’ll spend the night. A short walk to the Maundi Crater is optional for scenic views over northern Tanzania and Kenya.
Hiking time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 8 km
Habitat: Rainforest

Day 2 :

Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Depart Mandara through a forested trail that quickly opens up to the moorland zone. Enjoy sweeping views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks as the terrain becomes rockier and dotted with giant lobelias and groundsels. You’ll reach Horombo Hut in the afternoon and rest here overnight.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 12 km
Habitat: Moorland

Day 3 :

Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,703m)

Trek through the alpine desert zone today, passing the "Last Water Point" and reaching the stark and windswept saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut by early afternoon to rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 10 km
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4 :

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

At midnight, begin your final ascent to the summit. The trail is steep and cold, passing Hans Meyer Cave en route to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From here, continue around the rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut for the night.
Hiking time: 12–14 hours
Distance: 21 km
Habitat: Arctic zone (summit), Alpine Desert, and Moorland (descent)

Day 5 :

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Descend through the heath and rainforest zones, enjoying your final views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. Once at Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before transferring back to your hotel.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 18 km
Habitat: Moorland and Rainforest

FAQs

Expand all

How fit do I need to be to do this trek?

Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.

How long do we walk every day when doing Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.

What is the highest altitude reached in this trek?

The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.

What about battery charging and hot shower facilities?

Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.

Are there ATMs on the way to Annapurna Base Camp?

No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.

What about internet access?

Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.

Is it necessary to hire Guides/trekking agency for Annapurna Base Camp trekking?

Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.

It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.

How much do guides and porters cost?

For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.

5 Days Marangu Route

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Route Highlights

Itinerary

Cost

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

FAQs

Map

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