Price from: $1750 per person
Overview
Marangu Route Overview – The Coca Cola Route
The Marangu Route, also known as the Coca Cola Route, is one of the most popular paths to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Many climbers prefer it because it can be completed in fewer days. In addition, the route features permanent sleep huts at the campsites, making overnight stays more comfortable.
Summit Night from Kibo Hut
Summit night begins from Kibo Hut, leading climbers along a steep trail to Gilman’s Point. From there, you continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. Because the ascent and descent share the same path, the trail can become crowded, especially during peak climbing season.
Route Details
This is a shorter route with a steeper incline from Kibo Base Camp to the summit. The climb is considered medium difficulty, suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness. Along the way, enjoy good scenic views of the surrounding landscapes, including volcanic craters and alpine desert.
Duration and Traffic
The Marangu Route can be completed in 5 or 6 days, depending on your itinerary. It is the only route where the ascent and descent are shared, creating higher traffic compared to other paths. However, many climbers appreciate the accessibility and hut accommodation, which makes this route a favorite choice.
Itinerary
Day 1 Marangu Gate - Mandara Huts
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Pickup and Transfer to Kilimanjaro National Park
In the morning, our team will pick you up from your hotel in Moshi. The drive to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate takes approximately 45 minutes, passing through the charming village of Marangu. Along the way, you can enjoy views of local life and the surrounding highlands.
Park Entry and Preparation
Upon arrival at the park gate, your guide will help you complete permits and check-in procedures. While waiting, observe the busy preparations as many climbing crews get ready for their Kilimanjaro adventure.
Trek Through the Rainforest
Once the hike begins, you will enter the lush rainforest section, ascending along windy trails surrounded by towering trees and unique flora. Your guide will point out local plants, birds, and wildlife while explaining their significance. At these lower elevations, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended for safety.
Trek Details
- Distance: 7 km / 4–5 hours
- Elevation: 1,830 m / 6,000 ft → 2,740 m / 9,000 ft
- Terrain: Rainforest, muddy and slippery
- Accommodation:
- Mandara Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2 Mandara Huts - Horombo Huts
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Depart the Rainforest and Enter Heathland
After a hearty breakfast, you will leave the rainforest behind and begin ascending through the Kilimanjaro heathland. Along the trail, keep an eye out for giant lobelias and towering groundsels that are unique to this elevation.
Ascend Into the Moorlands
The trail gradually opens into the moorlands, where small shrubs dominate the landscape. Here, the vegetation becomes sparse, and the views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks are truly spectacular.
Midday Lunch Stop
Around halfway along the trek, pause for a well-deserved lunch while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This is a perfect opportunity to rest and photograph the dramatic scenery.
Arrival at Horombo Huts
Later in the afternoon, you will arrive at Horombo Huts, situated beneath the Kibo Summit viewpoint. Temperatures begin to drop here, so make sure to bundle up for the cooler evening. Relax and enjoy dinner before a restful night, preparing for the summit push in the coming days.
Trek Details
- Elevation Gain: 2,740 m → 3,720 m / 9,000 ft → 12,200 ft
- Terrain: Heathland and moorland
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Accommodation:
- Horombo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3 Horombo Huts - Kibo Huts
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Depart Horombo Huts and Enter the Saddle
After breakfast, your trek continues through the dwindling heathland, gradually transitioning into the semi-desert zone. The landscape opens into a moonscape as you enter the broad saddle connecting Mawenzi and Kibo.
Midday Lunch and Summit Views
During the lunch stop, take the opportunity to study the Kibo summit in preparation for your summit push. This high-altitude saddle offers panoramic views of both Mawenzi and Kibo, and provides insight into the challenging climb ahead.
Trek to Kibo Huts
In the afternoon, continue crossing the surprisingly large saddle toward Kibo Huts, your base for the summit attempt. Along the way, notice the stark volcanic terrain, with sparse vegetation and dramatic rocky outcrops. The elevation gain is significant, so take your time and stay well-hydrated.
Trek Details
- Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Elevation: 3,690 m → 4,695 m / 12,100 ft → 15,400 ft
- Terrain: Semi-desert
- Accommodation:
- Kibo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4 Kibo Huts - Summit - Horombo Huts
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Early Morning Summit Attempt
Excitement builds with a very early start, usually between midnight and 2:00 a.m.. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. As you ascend in a switchback formation, focus on staying warm and keeping your energy steady while anticipating the incredible sense of achievement ahead.
Climb to Gillman’s Point
The trail takes you through heavy scree and possibly snow, leading to Gillman’s Point on the crater rim. Faster hikers may catch the sunrise from this vantage point, offering unforgettable views across the mountain. From here, the remaining ascent to Uhuru Peak is about one hour, where snow is likely along the way.
Uhuru Peak – The Roof of Africa
Congratulations! You have reached Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa. Take a moment to celebrate, capture photos, and savor this once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment.
Descent to Horombo Huts
After the summit experience, begin the steep descent back to Horombo Huts. Stop at Kibo Hut for a brief rest and lunch before continuing downward. This descent allows your muscles to recover while you reflect on the achievement and enjoy the mountain’s changing scenery.
Trek Details
- Elevation Gain: 4,695 m → 5,895 m / 15,400 ft → 19,341 ft
- Duration: 6–10 hours (ascent and partial descent)
- Terrain: Scree, snow, rocky slopes
- Accommodation:
- Horombo Hut
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5 Horombo Huts- Marangu Gates - Moshi
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Morning Farewell and Descent
After breakfast, take part in a heartfelt ceremony to appreciate your climbing crew and bond with your team. This is the perfect moment to acknowledge the porters, guides, and cooks who supported you throughout the trek. Be sure to tip them generously before continuing the descent toward Mandara Huts for lunch.
Navigating the Trail
The descent trail can be wet, muddy, and steep, especially as the temperature rises. Gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Take your time and enjoy the mountain scenery one last time as you make your way down.
Arrival at Marangu Gate
Reach Marangu Park Gate, where you will be presented with your official summit certificate a lasting memento of your Kilimanjaro achievement. From the gate, a vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, approximately a 45-minute drive.
Celebration and Rest
Upon arrival, enjoy a long-overdue hot shower, a celebratory dinner, and reflect on your incredible accomplishment. This marks the conclusion of your 5-day Marangu Route adventure, a journey filled with challenge, triumph, and unforgettable memories.
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
Includes the following:
- Transport to and from Moshi to the trail head
- Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees, rescue fees (totaling 1165$ per person)
- Value Added Tax (VAT) – 18% of the tour price
- Expert guide, assistant guide, cook & porters
- Bottled oxygen, for emergency rescue only. Other equipment’s with the guide, radios, oximeters for oxygen level checks
- Four season, 3-person mountain tents, double occupancy
- Sleeping pad, foam, 1.5 inches thick
- Mess tents, tables, chairs, lanterns
- Free storage of excess baggage not required on the mountain hike.
- Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain. (can be catered for vegetarian, vegan, gluten free & Halal)
- Breakfast at hotel
Excludes the following:
- Flights.
- Optional activities.
- Visa fees.
- Alcoholic and soft drinks.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for Mountain Crews.
- Personal gear like sleeping bags, Hiking poles, etc.
- Personal spending money for souvenirs, etc.