Your journey at a glance
Sample journey
This itinerary is adapted from the reference collection as travel inspiration. Confirm accommodation, activities, inclusions and availability with Darba Tanzania Safaris before booking.
Overview
Climb Kilimanjaro in five days on the Marangu route, the only route with sleeping huts, from Marangu Gate via Mandara, Horombo and Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Experience Overview
The Marangu route, known as the 'Coca-Cola route', is the oldest way up Kilimanjaro and the only one where you sleep in huts with beds rather than tents. It approaches from the south-east, climbing through rainforest to Mandara Hut, across moorland to Horombo Hut and over the lunar Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to Kibo Hut, the base for the summit.
The gradients are steady and the path is well made, which makes Marangu popular with travellers who want a more comfortable climb. The trade-off is acclimatization: five days is the shortest possible schedule, so if you have time, the six-day version with an extra night at Horombo noticeably improves your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak.
Highlights
The standout moments built into this safari.
The only Kilimanjaro route with sleeping huts
Rainforest, moorland and the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo
Sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via Gillman's Point
Itinerary
These are sample itineraries designed to inspire your journey. Each trip can be fully customized to match your travel style, preferences, and schedule. Use them as a starting point to craft your perfect safari experience.
Day 2 · Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Leave the forest behind and climb through giant heather and open moorland, with Kibo and Mawenzi coming into view, to Horombo Hut. About five to six hours of walking.
Day 3 · Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Climb past the last water point and cross the high, barren Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to Kibo Hut, five to six hours. Early dinner and rest before the summit attempt.
Day 4 · Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
Start around midnight and climb the steep scree by headlamp to Gillman's Point on the crater rim, then along the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) for sunrise. Descend to Kibo Hut for a rest and continue down to Horombo Hut – 12 to 14 hours in total.
Day 5 · Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate, about five to six hours, where you receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
