Marangu Route
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
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Total Distance: 8km/5 miles
Starting Elevation: 1,842m/6,046ft
Final Elevation 2,699m/8,858ft
Habitat: Rain Forest
You depart Moshi for Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The hiking trail begins by ascending a beautiful, tropical rain forest. At the upper edge of the forest line, you’ll have the opportunity to see blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until 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.