Overview
The Marangu Route, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola route,” is the oldest and one of the most popular paths up Mount Kilimanjaro. By choosing the Marangu Route, you follow in the footsteps of Hans Meyer, who achieved the first successful summit of Kilimanjaro in 1889. This trail is located within Kilimanjaro National Park and spans all the mountain’s climatic zones, from tropical forest to alpine desert. Notably, it is the only route that provides dormitory-style huts for overnight stays.
If you’re considering the Marangu Route, it’s an excellent choice for climbing Kilimanjaro during the rainy seasons—from mid-March to late May, and from late October to late December—as the huts will keep you dry and comfortable. The route is available in 5-day and 6-day variations, with the latter being significantly less challenging.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be greeted by a Peak Safari representative and transferred to your hotel, which is included in the rate. The hotel offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including cozy rooms, hot water, courteous staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening, there will be a briefing with our managers to ensure you are prepared to begin your climb.
Your climbing guide and support team will meet you at your hotel for a brief orientation. Following this, you'll drive to the Marangu Gate of Kilimanjaro National Park, located at an elevation of 1,970 meters (6,462 feet).
Once the climbing permits and registration with the rescue and search services are finalized, you'll begin your ascent to Mandara Hut, situated at 2,720 meters (8,922 feet).
We strongly recommend bringing a raincoat, as the trail traverses a tropical rainforest where rain is highly likely.
Upon arrival at Mandara Hut, lunch will be ready for you, and you will be assigned your hut for the night.
Your group will start the day with an early breakfast before departing Mandara Hut. The day's trek involves a moderate hike to the second high-altitude camp, Horombo Hut, situated at 3,720 meters (12,204 feet). Upon reaching the camp, you'll be rewarded with views of both Kibo and Mawenzi volcanoes.
A few hours after lunch, you will undertake an acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut, gaining 200 meters (656 feet) in altitude, before returning to Horombo Hut, where dinner will be prepared for you.
After breakfast, you will embark on an acclimatization hike towards Kibo Hut and then return to camp.
Following lunch, you can explore the surrounding area, take photos of Mawenzi Volcano, or rest before the next day's trek to Kibo Hut. To improve your acclimatization, your team will spend the night at the same altitude at Horombo Hut camp.
On this day, immediately after breakfast, the group will begin the trek to Kibo Hut, located at 4,720 meters (15,482 feet). Although the trek itself is not very challenging, it's important to maintain a steady pace to conserve your energy for the upcoming ascent to Kilimanjaro's summit. Upon reaching the camp, you will be served lunch. Afterward, we recommend resting as much as possible, avoiding any strenuous activity, and staying well-hydrated.
Your group will depart from Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 ft) at night and begin the trek to Kilimanjaro's summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft). While this section of the Marangu Route is not technically difficult, the high altitude makes even regular physical activity strenuous.
For the final summit push, we pair two climbers with one guide, who will monitor their physical condition and provide encouragement and motivation.
After reaching Uhuru Peak, you have the option to descend to the nearest glacier. Following this, you will return to Kibo Hut and, after a two-hour rest, continue your descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,202 ft).
In the morning, you will be served a warm breakfast before heading to the exit of Kilimanjaro National Park at Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,462 ft). After your descent, the entire group will gather to congratulate you, and you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts on the trip in the guestbook. Finally, we will present you with commemorative certificates and provide a transfer back to your hotel.
Relax at the hotel before being transferred to the airport.
Cost Includes
- All transfers
- Hotels
- Camping gear
- Delicious meals
- Professional guides and porters
- Oxygen tanks
- Medical check-ups and medical kits
- All park fees and taxes
- Dedicated support team
Cost Excludes
- International flights
- Tips
- Visas and fees
- Personal gear rental
- Travel insurance
- Lunch and dinner at hotel
Marangu Route FAQ
The Marangu Route on Mount Kilimanjaro, often called the “Coca-Cola route,” is perceived as one of the more “touristy” or “comfortable” routes. While it does offer more basic amenities compared to other routes, it still presents significant challenges and requires adequate preparation and fitness. Climbers should recognize that regardless of the route chosen, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro requires commitment and preparation.
The Marangu Route over 6 days is moderately difficult and accessible for a variety of climbers. However, the 5-day variation is significantly more challenging and not recommended for beginners. The most difficult part of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is typically the summit day in the high-altitude desert. Longer itineraries offer better acclimatization, making the summit day more manageable.
Different tour operators boast different rates though average seems to be around 80%. In the end, it depends on the individual and most of the times, with the right instructions from the crew and patience, everyone makes it.
Marangu Route
