The Marangu Route, often referred to as the Coca-Cola Route, is the most popular and considered the easiest of the routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a straightforward climb with relatively comfortable accommodation in huts along the way, making it ideal for those new to high-altitude trekking. Despite its easier ascent compared to other routes, it still presents significant challenges, especially due to the rapid ascent, and has a lower success rate for climbers who are not sufficiently acclimatized. This route, while shorter, requires stamina and preparation, and climbers need to respect the mountain’s high altitude to succeed.
Highlights
The Marangu Route, often referred to as the Coca-Cola Route, is the most popular and considered the easiest of the routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a straightforward climb with relatively comfortable accommodation in huts along the way, making it ideal for those new to high-altitude trekking. Despite its easier ascent compared to other routes, it still presents significant challenges, especially due to the rapid ascent, and has a lower success rate for climbers who are not sufficiently acclimatized. This route, while shorter, requires stamina and preparation, and climbers need to respect the mountain's high altitude to succeed.
Mandara Hut Stay: Enjoy the first night's stay at Mandara Hut, a comfortable wooden hut with solar lighting, providing a restful stop amidst the lush forest.
Moorland Landscape at Horombo Hut: Hike through rolling alpine meadows and giant heather trees, with breathtaking views and the chance to see rare plants like giant lobelia and groundsel.
Stunning Views of Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks: As you approach Kibo Hut, experience panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's two majestic peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo, and the dramatic alpine desert landscape.
Summit Climb to Uhuru Peak: Challenge yourself on the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the "Roof of Africa," where you'll be rewarded with sweeping views from the summit at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet).
Celebratory Descent: After reaching the summit, descend to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest, then continue your journey back to Marangu Gate, where you'll receive a summit certificate for your achievement.
Acclimatization and Scenic Views: The gradual ascent and scenic paths through different ecological zones—from lush forests to alpine deserts—provide perfect acclimatization opportunities while immersing you in Kilimanjaro’s diverse beauty.
After an early breakfast, you’ll be picked up from Springlands Hotel and drive to Marangu Gate, where you will register for the climb. The trek begins with a well-maintained trail through Montane Forest, where you'll walk through lush rainforest and coffee plantations. Along the way, you may spot Black and White Colobus monkeys and various species of colorful birds. After about 4-5 hours of hiking, you will arrive at Mandara Hut (2,740 m/9,000 ft), a group of dormitory-style wooden huts with solar-powered lighting. The camp has all necessary facilities, including water and toilets, to make your stay comfortable. Enjoy your first evening on the mountain with dinner and a restful night.
The second day of the climb will take you on a 6-8 hour trek across a slightly steeper trail, transitioning from Montane Forest to moorland vegetation. The landscape shifts to rolling alpine meadows dotted with giant heather trees. You may also spot towering plants like giant lobelia and giant groundsel. Upon reaching Horombo Hut (3,690 m/12,100 ft), you will have time to relax, enjoy hot water to wash up, and have a hearty meal in preparation for the ascent tomorrow. The Horombo Hut is a village of huts with a total capacity of 120 climbers, offering a good resting spot.
On this day, you’ll embark on a 6-8 hour trek through heathland, which soon gives way to an almost lunar-like alpine desert landscape. This trek brings you into the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. As you ascend, you might begin to feel symptoms of altitude sickness, so it’s important to listen to your body and inform your guide if necessary. The views of Kilimanjaro's summit become more striking as you approach Kibo Hut (4,695 m/15,400 ft). This dry-stone-walled hut has limited facilities, and it’s a good place to rest before your summit attempt.
The climb to the summit is the most challenging part of the trek. Starting just before midnight, you’ll begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m/19,340 ft) through heavy stone scree. The climb is difficult, with steep switchbacks, but with determination, you will reach Stella Point (5,685 m) on the rim of the crater. From there, it's a short, yet strenuous, walk to Uhuru Peak, where you will enjoy the satisfaction of reaching the "Roof of Africa." After a brief rest, you’ll begin your descent back down to Horombo Hut (3,690 m/12,100 ft), where you’ll spend the night.
The final day of the trek is the descent from Horombo Hut (3,690 m) to Marangu Gate (1,830 m) through a scenic forest path. This section of the trek takes about 5-7 hours, and it’s an easier walk compared to the ascent. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, successful climbers will receive their summit certificates. Afterward, you will drive back to Springlands Hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved shower, celebration, and a Kilimanjaro beer to toast your achievement.
Inclusions
All park fees and necessary permits
Accommodation in huts along the route
Professional mountain guide, cook, and porters
Meals during the trek (3 meals a day)
Drinking water during the climb
Kilimanjaro certificates for successful climbers
Transport to and from Marangu Gate
Exclusions
International flights to and from Tanzania
Travel insurance (recommended)
Tips for guides, cooks, and porters
Personal items (sleeping bags, trekking gear)
Any extra activities such as visiting local attractions
Personal expenses like souvenirs, drinks, or snacks outside of the provided meals
The Marangu Route is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route.” It is considered the easiest route with hut accommodation along the way, making it more comfortable than other routes that require camping. However, it is still a challenging climb and requires good physical fitness.
While the Marangu Route is the easiest of the established routes, it still requires a high level of fitness and preparation. The trek involves long, strenuous days of hiking, especially on summit day. Altitude sickness is also a risk, as climbers ascend quickly and the summit is at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
The success rate on the Marangu Route is around 60-70%. While it is the easiest in terms of logistics and comfort, climbers still face challenges such as altitude sickness, which can hinder their chances of reaching the summit.
Reaching the summit is not guaranteed, and safety is always the top priority. If you are not physically able to continue, our guides will ensure your safety and help you descend to a lower altitude. If you reach the summit, a certificate will be awarded at the Marangu Gate upon your return.
Yes, altitude sickness is a risk on all Kilimanjaro routes, including Marangu. To minimize the risk, it is important to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and listen to your guide. Our guides are trained to recognize and respond to symptoms of altitude sickness, and proper acclimatization is part of the itinerary.
The Marangu route has a shorter acclimatization period compared to other routes, as the ascent is faster. However, you will still have time to adjust as the climb progresses, with two days at Horombo Hut to help acclimatize before reaching higher altitudes.
Meals during the trek are provided and include a variety of dishes to cater to climbers’ needs. Typically, breakfast includes porridge, eggs, and toast. Lunch may include sandwiches, fruits, and snacks. Dinner typically includes a soup starter, followed by a main course with rice, pasta, or potatoes, accompanied by vegetables and meat or beans.
While the Marangu Route is considered the easiest, it still requires good physical fitness. We recommend training in advance, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and walking or hiking to build endurance. If you’re unsure about your fitness level, consult with your doctor before booking the trek.
At Gemfinders Safaris, we specialize in crafting unique itineraries that explore East Africa’s most mesmerizing locations. Whether you’re interested in cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, peaceful relaxation, or luxurious experiences, our personalized tours are tailored to accommodate every type of traveler.
