Marangu Route
The Classic Kilimanjaro Climb
Experience Comfort and Adventure on the “Coca-Cola Route.”
Marangu Route Overview
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for being the only route with hut accommodations, offering dormitory-style sleeping arrangements instead of tents. This makes it an attractive choice for climbers seeking more comfort and protection from the elements. The route is also the shortest and most direct path to the summit, which contributes to its popularity. However, due to its rapid ascent profile, the success rate can be lower without proper acclimatization.
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Starting Altitude: 1,870m
- Ending Altitude: 2,720m
- Distance: ~8 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary: Begin your trek through lush rainforest, with a chance to spot wildlife like colobus monkeys. Overnight at Mandara Hut.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Starting Altitude: 2,720m
- Ending Altitude: 3,720m
- Distance: ~12 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Heathland
- Summary: Ascend into the moorlands, enjoying panoramic views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Starting Altitude: 3,720m
- Ending Altitude: 4,700m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
- Summary: A challenging day as you hike through barren terrain to reach Kibo Hut. Rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt.
Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Starting Altitude: 4,700m
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m
- Ending Altitude: 3,720m
- Distance: ~22 km (Round Trip)
- Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
- Vegetation: Arctic
- Summary: Start your summit attempt at midnight. Reach Gilman’s Point and continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend back to Horombo Hut.
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Starting Altitude: 3,720m
- Ending Altitude: 1,870m
- Distance: ~20 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Vegetation: Heathland and Rainforest
- Summary: A long descent back through moorlands and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Collect your summit certificate and celebrate with your team.
Key Considerations for the 5-Day Trek
- Removed Acclimatization Day: The acclimatization day at Horombo Hut is skipped, making this itinerary more demanding. Ensure you are physically fit and follow proper hydration and pacing strategies.
- Recommended for Experienced Trekkers: A shorter schedule may increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
- Starting Altitude: 1,870m
- Ending Altitude: 2,720m
- Distance: ~8 km
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Vegetation: Rainforest
- Summary: Begin your trek through lush rainforest, with a chance to spot wildlife like colobus monkeys. Arrive at Mandara Hut for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
- Starting Altitude: 2,720m
- Ending Altitude: 3,720m
- Distance: ~12 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Heathland
- Summary: Ascend into the heathlands, leaving the dense rainforest behind. Enjoy spectacular views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
- Activity: Optional hikes to Mawenzi Ridge or Zebra Rocks (up to 4,000m)
- Purpose: Acclimatization to increase your chances of summit success.
- Summary: Spend the day at Horombo Hut, resting and exploring nearby trails to help your body adjust to the altitude. Return to Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
- Starting Altitude: 3,720m
- Ending Altitude: 4,700m
- Distance: ~10 km
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation: Alpine Desert
- Summary: Trek through barren terrain to reach Kibo Hut. Prepare for your summit attempt with an early dinner and rest, as the climb begins at midnight.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Starting Altitude: 4,700m
- Summit Altitude: 5,895m
- Ending Altitude: 3,720m
- Distance: ~22 km (Round Trip)
- Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
- Vegetation: Arctic and Alpine Desert
- Summary: Begin your summit climb at midnight, passing Gilman’s Point (5,681m) and reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, descend to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Starting Altitude: 3,720m
- Ending Altitude: 1,870m
- Distance: ~20 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Vegetation: Heathland and Rainforest
- Summary: Descend through the heathland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement with your team.
Marangu Inclusive
- Park fees, camping fees, and hut accommodation.
- Professional guide, cook, and porters.
- Three meals per day during the climb.
- Drinking water and tea/coffee.
- Rescue fees and oxygen for emergencies.
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro National Park.
- Kilimanjaro certificate (for successful summiteers).
Marangu Exclusive
- Flights and visa fees.
- Personal hiking gear (can be rented).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters (~$200-$300 per climber).
- Optional extended acclimatization days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Marangu Route is the only Kilimanjaro route with hut accommodations instead of camping. These dormitory-style huts provide extra comfort and shelter.
Yes, it is considered beginner-friendly due to its gradual ascent. However, proper preparation and acclimatization are essential for a successful climb.
The trek typically takes 5 days, but a 6-day itinerary is recommended to improve acclimatization and increase the success rate from ~50-60% to ~80%.
The route offers diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to the Arctic summit zone. It’s one of the most popular routes, so expect more climbers, especially during peak seasons.
Packages usually include park fees, hut accommodations, meals, guides, porters, and transfers. You’ll need personal gear like clothing, boots, and a sleeping bag, though rentals are available for some items.