Overview
The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most established path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. With a moderate gradient and well-trodden trail, it offers a relatively comfortable climb for trekkers attempting Africa’s highest peak. This is the only route with mountain huts at each overnight stop, providing simple dormitory accommodation and communal dining areas along the way.
Unlike camping treks, Marangu allows climbers to rest under a roof, which can be a welcome reprieve from the elements. The route follows a steady ascent through lush rainforest, alpine meadows, and stark lunar landscapes before reaching the crater rim at Gilman’s Point and continuing to Uhuru Peak. With proper pacing and preparation, this six-day journey makes the summit both accessible and unforgettable.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to your lodge in Arusha. In the evening, there will be a full briefing and final gear check ahead of the trek.
Overnight: Oasis Lodge
Drive to Marangu Gate for park registration and a pre-hike briefing. The trek begins with a walk through dense montane forest, rich with birdlife and the chance to spot blue monkeys. The path climbs gradually to Mandara Hut, located on the edge of the forest.
Overnight: Mandara Hut (9,000 feet)
Walking time: 4–5 hours
Ascend from the forest into high moorland. The trail opens up, revealing sweeping views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll pass through grassy hills and volcanic rock formations before arriving at Horombo Hut.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (12,000 feet)
Walking time: 5–6 hours
Today’s trek continues into alpine desert terrain. The vegetation thins, and the trail becomes rockier as you approach the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Giant lobelia and senecio plants dot the path. Arrive at Kibo Hut in time for an early dinner and rest before the summit attempt.
Overnight: Kibo Hut (15,000 feet)
Walking time: 5–6 hours
Wake just after midnight and begin the summit ascent under the stars. Trek past Gilman’s Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 19,340 feet. After celebrating at the summit, descend carefully back to Kibo for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned meal and rest.
Overnight: Horombo Hut (12,000 feet)
Walking time: 12–14 hours total
Make the final descent through the forest back to Marangu Gate. After receiving your certificate of achievement, return to Arusha for relaxation or onward travel.
Walking time: 5–6 hours
End of the Kilimanjaro trekking adventure
Inclusions
Includes
- Accommodation in listed lodges/camps (or similar)
- All meals during the safari
- Park entrance and conservation fees
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari jeep with pop-up roof
- Game drives as per itinerary
- English-speaking professional safari driver-guide
- Bottled water on game drives
- Airport transfers
Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Hot air balloon safari (optional, extra cost)
- Cultural village visits (optional, small fee)
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, souvenirs)
- Extra accommodation before/after the tour (available on request)
FAQs
Yes, especially in the lower rainforest zone. Look out for blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and various bird species during the first day’s ascent to Mandara Hut.
Yes, the Marangu Route is the only one with vehicle-accessible rescue paths at certain points. However, emergency evacuations are rare and only used in serious cases of altitude sickness or injury.
Temperatures at night can drop to -12°C (10°F) or lower, especially near the summit. Dressing in warm, layered clothing with proper gloves and headwear is essential for the final push to Uhuru Peak.
The huts are simple wooden structures with bunk beds and mattresses. Each site includes a communal dining hall and basic toilet facilities. Sleeping bags are required, but mattresses are provided.
Yes, the moderate gradient and hut accommodation make it appealing for beginners. However, the short six-day itinerary means there is less time to acclimatize, so good physical fitness and steady pacing are important.
Marangu is the only route that uses mountain huts instead of tents and follows the same path up and down. It offers basic comforts like beds and shared dining rooms, making it a good choice for trekkers new to high-altitude hiking.
