Marangu Route
The Famous “Coca-Cola” Route to Kilimanjaro’s Summit!
Trekking Overview
The Marangu Route, known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is the only Kilimanjaro trail with hut accommodations, making it a popular and comfortable choice for trekkers. This route follows a direct path to the summit with gradual slopes, passing through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. While it is one of the shortest routes, the rapid ascent can be challenging for acclimatization. Ideal for those seeking a structured and relatively easier trek, Marangu offers a classic Kilimanjaro experience with scenic beauty and a well-defined trail.
Trekking Analytics for Marangu Route
Duration: 5 to 6 days
Distance: Approximately 72 km (45 miles) round trip
Difficulty Level: Moderate, but challenging due to rapid ascent
Acclimatization: Limited due to shorter duration, increasing the risk of altitude sickness
Success Rate: Lower compared to longer routes, but varies with proper preparation
Accommodation: Mountain huts with dormitory-style bunk beds
Scenery: Diverse landscapes, including rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, but same ascent and descent path limits variety
Best for: Trekkers looking for a comfortable climb with hut accommodations and a direct route to the summit
Marangu Route, Best Time to Visit
The best time to climb the Marangu Route aligns with Kilimanjaro's two dry seasons:
January to mid-March: Warm temperatures, clear skies, and fewer crowds, offering great trekking conditions.
June to October: The most popular season with stable weather, dry trails, and excellent visibility.
Avoid April-May (long rains) and November (short rains), as trails can be slippery, making the trek more challenging.
Marangu Route Trekking
Learn More about Marangu Route Trekking!
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut (Highlight: Lush Rainforest)
Start your climb at Marangu Gate (1,800m). Walk through a green forest full of birds and monkeys. Look for big trees, pretty flowers, and small waterfalls. Sleep at Mandara Hut (2,700m) in comfy rooms.
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut (Highlight: Diverse Landscapes)
alk up slowly today. Leave the forest and enter an open area with great views. See how the plants change as you go higher. Eat a nice lunch on the way. Stay the night at Horombo Hut (3,720m).
Day 3: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut (Highlight: Summit Push Preparation)
Today is harder. Walk through an area that looks like the moon. Not many plants grow here. It’s rocky and dry. Reach Kibo Hut (4,700m), your last stop before the top. Rest well for tomorrow’s big climb.
Day 4: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut (Highlight: Summit Day & Descent)
Start very early, around midnight. Use headlamps to see in the dark. It’s a tough climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. See the sunrise from the top! Then walk back down to Horombo Hut to sleep.
Day 5: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (Highlight: Celebrate Your Triumph) On your last
day, walk down through all the different areas you saw before. Feel the air get warmer as you go lower. When you reach Marangu Gate, celebrate with your team. Get a special paper to show you climbed Kilimanjaro!
Day 1: Marangu Gate – Mandara Hut
Your trek starts at Marangu Gate (1,800m). Lush rainforest bursts with life – colorful birds flit through the trees, monkeys swing in the branches, and flowers bloom. Towering fig trees shade your path as you climb toward Mandara Hut (2,700m).
Day 2: Mandara Hut – Horombo Hut
Today’s climb starts in lush rainforest, with tall trees and thick plants. As you go higher, the trees thin out and give way to open moorland. Here, rolling hills replace the forest canopy, offering stunning mountain views. Enjoy a tasty lunch before reaching Horombo Hut (3,720m) for your overnight stay.
Day 3: Horombo Hut – Acclimatization Hike
Rest day, but with a twist! Today’s climb goes even higher, helping your body get used to the thinner air on Kilimanjaro. It’s a scenic hike with amazing views, so bring your camera! Afterwards, relax and enjoy dinner at Horombo Hut (3,720m) before getting a good night’s sleep.
Day 4: Horombo Hut – Kibo Hut
Hike through a strange, almost moon-like landscape between two giant peaks. It’s tough with less air and fewer plants, but the view is unreal. Reach Kibo Hut (4,700m), the highest point on this route, where you’ll rest up for the big summit push tomorrow night!
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
Summit night arrives! The hike starts super early, around midnight, with headlamps to light your way. It’s tough going up rocky paths in the dark, but reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest spot, is worth it! See the amazing sunrise above the clouds before heading back down to Horombo Hut (3,720m) to rest up for another night.
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (Highlight: Celebrate Your Triumph)
Time to go down! Today’s trek follows your climbing route back to Marangu Gate. The air gets warmer and the scenery changes as you descend. Leave the rocky slopes behind and enjoy the return to the lush rainforest. Celebrate reaching Marangu Gate (1,800m) with your team! You’ve conquered Kilimanjaro, so high fives all around and don’t forget your well-earned summit certificate. This adventure will stay with you forever!
Packing List for Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful and comfortable Kilimanjaro trek. Below is a comprehensive list of what you need to bring:
- Clothing
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (2–3 sets).
- Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
- Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
- Trekking Pants & Shirts: Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.
- Gloves: Thin inner gloves and insulated waterproof gloves.
- Hat & Balaclava: Warm hat for cold weather, sun hat for protection.
- Gaiters: To keep dirt, mud, and snow out of boots.
- Socks: 3–4 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks and thick thermal socks.
- Footwear
- Trekking Boots: Waterproof, well-broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or sneakers for relaxing at camp.
- Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for -10°C to -20°C (4-season, down or synthetic).
- Sleeping Mat: Optional but useful for extra comfort.
- Backpacks & Bags
- Daypack (20–30L): For carrying daily essentials.
- Duffel Bag (90L–100L): For porters to carry your gear.
- Dry Bags: For keeping electronics and clothes dry.
- Accessories
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable, lightweight poles for stability.
- Headlamp: With extra batteries.
- Sunglasses: UV-protection, polarized.
- Water Bottles & Hydration System: 3L total capacity.
- Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for quick energy.
- Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Biodegradable Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer
- Lip Balm & Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Small Quick-Dry Towel
- Toilet Paper & Travel Tissues
- First Aid & Medications
- Personal Prescriptions
- Painkillers (Ibuprofen or Paracetamol)
- Altitude Sickness Medication (Diamox – consult your doctor first)
- Blister Plasters & Bandages
- Electrolyte Tablets & Rehydration Salts
- Documents & Money
- Passport & Copy
- Tanzania Visa
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (if required)
- Travel Insurance (including high-altitude trekking coverage)
- Cash (USD for tips and incidentals)
- Final Tips
✔ Layering is key! The weather varies from hot to freezing, so dress in layers.
✔ Pack light but efficiently! Porters carry most of your gear, but keep your daypack essentials with you.
✔ Break in your boots! Avoid blisters by wearing them on practice hikes.
✔ Stay hydrated! Carry and drink at least 3 liters of water per day.
#By packing smart, you’ll ensure a safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable trek to the Roof of Africa!
Prices for Marangu route
| Number of People | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Days | $1620 | $1590 | $1560 | $1530 | $1500 | $1470 | $1430 | $1400 |
| 5 Days | $1360 | $1330 | $1300 | $1270 | $1240 | $1210 | $1170 | $1130 |
Transparent Pricing
Know What's Included & Excluded for a Hassle-Free Adventure!
- Moshi/Arusha Stays: 2 comfy nights in a hotel before & after your climb.
- Transport Covered: Rides to & from the mountain starting point.
- Park Fees Included: Permits, camping/hut fees & park taxes included.
- Expert Team: Guides, assistants, cooks & porters for support.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available for safety (not for regular use).
- Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping pads, shared dining area with lights.
- Mountain Meals: Delicious & nutritious food to fuel your adventure.
- Flights & Visas: These are separate, make a plan to arrange them yourself.
- Meals at Hotel: Accommodation is on B&B plan, lunch and dinner are on you.
- Personal Gear: Pack what you need for the climb. Contact us for a detailed packing list.
- Gratitude is Golden: Tips for the crew are welcome!
Marangu Route - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Everything You Need to Know for a Successful Kilimanjaro Climb!
Why Choose the Marangu Route?
How Long Does the Marangu Route Take?
What is the Difficulty Level of the Marangu Route?
How Fit Do I Need to Be to Climb the Marangu Route?
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Do I Need a Guide to Trek the Marangu Route?
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