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- Moshono, Arusha - Tanzania
The 5-day Marangu Route, nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” is Kilimanjaro’s only trail offering mountain hut accommodations, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and a social atmosphere. This southeast approach provides gradual acclimatization, scenic rainforest trails, alpine meadows, and a final ascent through Kilimanjaro’s barren, lunar-like summit zone.
With expert guides, porters, and cooks, your journey to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft) is supported every step. This trek is moderately challenging, making it ideal for adventurers with good fitness levels looking for an unforgettable climb.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +830m
🏡 Accommodation: Mandara Hut
After breakfast in Moshi/Arusha, transfer to Marangu Gate (1,870m), the official starting point of your Kilimanjaro climb. After registration, begin your trek through the lush rainforest, home to blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and exotic bird species.
The trail gradually ascends, passing giant ferns, moss-covered trees, and colorful wildflowers before reaching Mandara Hut (2,700m). Upon arrival, enjoy a hot meal and relax. If time permits, take a short hike to Maundi Crater, offering breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the Kenyan border.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +1,020m
🏡 Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Depart Mandara Hut after breakfast, ascending into Kilimanjaro’s heath and moorland zone. The trail opens up to sweeping panoramic views as you pass through tall grasses, giant lobelias, and groundsels.
Halfway through the trek, stop for lunch at Kambi ya Taabu, a scenic resting point with magnificent vistas of Mawenzi Peak. Continuing uphill, you’ll reach Horombo Hut (3,720m), a lively campsite where trekkers from various routes converge. Enjoy a warm dinner and rest in shared dormitory-style huts.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +983m
🏡 Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Leaving Horombo Hut, the landscape transitions to a dramatic alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and rugged volcanic terrain. The trek follows the Saddle, a vast, desolate expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, providing surreal, otherworldly scenery.
As you approach Kibo Hut (4,703m), the thin air and high altitude become noticeable. Arrive in the early afternoon, have an early dinner, and rest before the summit push. The next day’s ascent begins at midnight, so hydration and proper rest are crucial.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
🏔 Elevation Gain: +1,192m
🔻 Elevation Loss: -2,175m
🏡 Accommodation: Horombo Hut
🌙 Midnight Summit Push 🌙
Wake up around 11:30 PM for hot tea and snacks before beginning your trek towards the summit at midnight. The steep, zigzagging trail climbs through steep scree slopes and switchbacks, leading to Gilman’s Point (5,685m)—a major milestone on Kilimanjaro’s crater rim.
From here, push forward along the icy ridge to Stella Point (5,756m), where you’ll witness the magnificent sunrise over Africa. The final stretch to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) is gradual but challenging due to the thin air. After celebrating at the Roof of Africa, capture photos and begin your descent back to Kibo Hut, where you’ll rest briefly before trekking further down to Horombo Hut for the night.
🚶♂️ Hiking Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
⏳ Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
🔻 Elevation Loss: -1,850m
🚐 Drive Time to Moshi/Arusha: 2–3 hours
After breakfast, begin your final descent through Moorland and Rainforest Zones, retracing your steps to Mandara Hut and eventually reaching Marangu Gate. Here, you’ll receive your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificates before being transferred back to Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of your incredible adventure!
Elpis (meaning “hope” in Hebrew) drives our mission: to deliver affordable, sustainable safaris that support Tanzania’s wildlife and communities. With certified guides, small groups, and eco-friendly practices, we ensure every trip leaves a positive footprint.
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At Elpis Africa Adventures, we craft unforgettable journeys across Tanzania — from thrilling safaris and Kilimanjaro treks to Zanzibar’s tranquil shores. Inspired by Elpis (ἐλπίς), meaning “hope,” we ignite hope through every adventure.
