The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and one of the most famous paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that offers hut accommodation, making it comfortable and a great choice for first-time climbers. This 5-day climb takes you through beautiful forests, open moorlands, and high alpine landscapes until you reach the snowy peak of Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
The Marangu Route is known for its gentle slopes and well-maintained trails. Although it seems easier compared to other routes, it still requires good fitness, proper pacing, and determination. With the help of experienced mountain guides, porters, and a supporting team, you will have a safe and unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa.
This climb is perfect for beginners, couples, friends, and anyone who dreams of standing on Africa’s highest summit in a short number of days.
Elevation: 1,860m to 2,720m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Your adventure begins at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you will meet your mountain guide. After a safari briefing, you will drive to Marangu Gate, the starting point of your climb. At the gate, you will register with the park authorities and begin your journey through the lush rainforest.
This part of the trail is cool, green, and full of birdlife. You may also see blue monkeys and colobus monkeys jumping in the trees. The trail is gentle and well-marked, making the first day enjoyable.
You will reach Mandara Hut in the afternoon. After resting, you can take an optional walk to the Maundi Crater, where you will enjoy beautiful views of Kenya and the surrounding landscape.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mandara Hut
Elevation: 2,720m to 3,720m
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Moorland
After breakfast, the trail continues through forest and soon opens into the Moorland Zone. The temperature becomes cooler, and the scenery changes to rolling hills and open landscapes with giant lobelias and senecios.
This is one of the most beautiful parts of the route. You will walk at a slow and steady pace, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. Your guide will remind you to drink plenty of water and walk “pole pole.”
In the afternoon, you will arrive at Horombo Hut, where you will enjoy views of both Mawenzi and Kibo, the two main peaks of Kilimanjaro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s trek takes you into the alpine desert, a dry area with little vegetation. The air becomes thinner as you climb higher, so you will walk slowly and rest often.
The trail crosses the Saddle, a wide and open stretch of land between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The views are incredible and show how massive Mount Kilimanjaro truly is.
You will reach Kibo Hut in the afternoon. Here, you will rest, eat an early dinner, and prepare for the most challenging part of your climb—the midnight summit attempt.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m (summit), then down to 3,720m
Distance: 6 km to the summit / 16 km descent
Hiking Time: 12–16 hours
Habitat: Arctic / Moorland
This is the most important day of your climb. You will wake up around 11:00 PM and begin your ascent at midnight. The trail is steep, cold, and demanding. You will walk slowly step by step towards the summit.
After 5–7 hours, you will reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From here, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
When you reach Uhuru Peak, you will celebrate your victory, take photos, and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise.
After a short break, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for lunch and rest. Later, you will continue down to Horombo Hut for a much-needed sleep.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland & Rainforest
After breakfast, you will begin your final descent through the moorland and back into the green rainforest. The air becomes warmer and easier to breathe.
Once you reach Marangu Gate, you will sign out and receive your climbing certificates green certificates for reaching Gilman’s Point and gold certificates for reaching Uhuru Peak.
Your driver will meet you at the gate and transfer you back to your hotel for a hot shower and relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Not included (end of tour)
✘ International flights
✘ Hotel before and after the climb
✘ Climbing gear (available for rent)
✘ Personal items (snacks, energy bars, medication)
✘ Tips for guides, cook, and porters
✘ Travel insurance
✘ Alcoholic and soft drinks
✘ Additional accommodation after the climb
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
| No. of Pax | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,650 |
| 2-5 person | $1,550 |
| 6-9 person | $1,500 |
| 10+ person | $1,450 |
Moshi, Kilimanjaro
+255 782 866 398
+255 782 866 398
info@safariexperttanzania.com
Experienced & Trustworthy Local Tour Operator Based In Tanzania. Mt Kilimanjaro & Safari Experts. Many More Memorable Activities in Tanzania & Zanzibar.