The Marangu Route also known as the “Coca-Cola Route” is the oldest and most well established trekking route on Mount  Kilimanjaro, and it remains extremely popular mainly because it is the only route on the mountain that has hut accommodation for trekkers.

This path provides trekkers with the classic Kilimanjaro climbing experience, offering sweeping views and a wonderful hiking adventure all the way to the summit of Uhuru Peak. That said, it also has some unique aspects that set it apart from any of the other routes as well, giving Marangu route a character and feeling that is entirely its own.

One of the more interesting aspects of Marangu Route is that it is the only route up Mount Kilimanjaro that doesn’t allow camping, so instead of sleeping in tents, trekkers stay in permanent huts instead.

Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut

Elevation: 1,870m (6,135 ft) to 2,700m (8,858 ft)

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time: 4–6 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Details:

• After registration at Marangu Gate, begin trekking through lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for blue monkeys and exotic birds.
• Overnight at Mandara Hut, located near the Maundi Crater. Optional: A short walk to the crater offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 2,700m (8,858 ft) to 3,720m (12,205 ft)

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Details:

• The trail leaves the rainforest and enters the moorland zone, characterized by giant heathers and unique flora like the giant lobelia.
• Enjoy views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks along the way.
• Overnight at Horombo Hut, offering expansive views and fresh air.

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 3,720m (12,205 ft) to 4,703m (15,430 ft)

Distance: 10 km (6 miles)

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Details:

• Cross the Saddle, a barren and windswept plain between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
• This day is physically demanding as you ascend into the alpine desert, where temperatures drop significantly.
• Overnight at Kibo Hut, resting before the summit attempt.

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,703m (15,430 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) to 3,720m (12,205 ft)

Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)

Hiking Time: 10–14 hours (6–8 hours to the summit, 4–6 hours descent)

Habitat: Arctic to moorland

Details:

• Begin the summit attempt around midnight. The trail to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is steep and covered in scree.
• From Gilman’s Point, continue along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.
• After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,720m (12,205 ft) to 1,870m (6,135 ft)

Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Habitat: Moorland to rainforest

Details:

• Descend through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate.
• At the gate, collect your summit certificate: a green certificate for Gilman’s Point and a gold certificate for Uhuru Peak.
• Transport back to Moshi or Arusha for relaxation and celebration.

Optional: 6-Day Marangu Route Itinerary

For better acclimatization, an extra day can be added:

• Day 3 (Acclimatization Day): Spend an extra night at Horombo Hut and hike to Mawenzi Ridge (4,400m/14,400 ft) for acclimatization before returning to Horombo Hut. This increases your chances of summit success.

• Fully-loaded medical kits
• All park fees and taxes
• Dedicated support team
• Safe room and storage room
• Oxygen tanks
• Meals on the hike
• Camping equipment
• Hotel before and after the hike

• International flights
• Tips to the climbing crew
• Visa fee
• Personal gear rentals
• Single supplement
• Travel insurance
• Portable toilet
• Lunch and dinner in the hotel