The Marangu route is the oldest and quickest route on Kilimanjaro.

It is affectionately known as the Coca-Cola Route and is one of the most popular routes to the summit. It has the most “luxurious” accommodation as it is the only route where you sleep in basic huts. The huts contain bunk bed, mattresses, solar powered lights and cold running water.

The ascent begins at Marangu Gate up the south east side of Kilimanjaro through the beautiful forest and moorland before passing to the south of Mawenzi and crossing the desolate saddle on route to Kibo Hut. You then ascend to the summit on scree slopes to Gilmans Point and then onto Uhuru Peak. Descent is back to Marangu Gate.

This route can be done in 5 days but is typically completed in 6 days for better acclimatization.

The Marangu Route is not recommended.

DAY 1: MARANGU GATE TO MANDARA HUT

DAY 2: MANDARA HUT TO HOROMBO HUT

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Distance: 12km/7 miles
Starting Elevation: 2,699m/8,858ft
Finial Elevation: 3,720m/12,205ft
Habitat: Heath

The day continues through the forest until the trail opens into high moorland. You may get a view of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks – two of the three volcanic peaks that make up the summit of Kilimanjaro.

DAY 3: HOROMBO HUT TO HOROMBO HUT

Horombo Hut to Mawenzi Ridge

Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 5km/3 miles
Starting Elevation: 3,720m/12,205ft
Final Elevation: 4,389m/14,400ft
Habitat: Heath

Mawenzi Ridge to Horombo Hut

Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Total Distance: 5km/3 miles
Elevation: 4,389m/14,400ft to 3,720m/12,205ft
Habitat: Heath

This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Horombo Hut.

DAY 4: HOROMBO HUT TO KIBO HUT

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Distance: 10km/6 miles
Starting Elevation: 3,720m/12,205ft
Final Elevation: 4,703m/15,430ft
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s climb is gradual, then crosses the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Camp is Kibo Hut and sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here you will rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

DAY 5: KIBO HUT TO UHURU PEAK

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Distance: 6km/4 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,703m/15,430ft
Final Elevation: 5,895m/19,341ft
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Total Distance: 16km/10 miles
Starting Elevation: 5,895m/19,341ft
Final Elevation: 3,733m/12,250ft
Habitat: Heath

Very early in the morning (around midnight), you will begin the push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. You ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, you descend to Horombo Hut. And later in the evening, enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

DAY 6 HOROMBO HUT TO MARANGU GATE

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 20km/12 miles
Starting Elevation: 3,733m/12,250ft
Final Elevation: 1,842m/6,046ft
Habitat: Rain Forest

The last day is a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, collect your summit certificates. A vehicle will meet you here and drive back to the hotel in Moshi.