The legendary Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only Kilimanjaro route offering comfortable hut accommodations. This classic trail provides a gentle ascent profile, beautiful rainforest scenery, and a historic path to Uhuru Peak. Ideal for trekkers seeking comfort, shorter duration, and a well-established route. Join Africantrust Safari for a smooth and memorable climb to the Roof of Africa.
The Marangu Route is the most historic and well-established trail on Mount Kilimanjaro. Beginning at the Marangu Gate on the southeastern side of the mountain, it winds through lush rainforests, heather zones, and alpine desert landscapes before reaching the Kibo Saddle on the way to Uhuru Peak.
Known for its gentle and steady ascent, Marangu is often considered one of the easier trails—physically—though its shorter itinerary means acclimatization can be challenging for some climbers. Unlike all other routes, the Marangu Route uses mountain huts instead of tents, offering bunk beds, solar lighting, and shared dining halls, making it the most comfortable accommodation option on Kilimanjaro.
The trail follows the same path up and down, providing a familiar and straightforward trekking experience. Although it is the oldest and one of the most popular routes, it still offers rich scenery, including waterfalls, towering trees filled with wildlife, and clear summit views from the upper slopes.
The Marangu Route is completed in 5 or 6 days, with the 6-day option strongly recommended for better acclimatization. Climbers ascend to the summit via the Kibo Huts – Gilman’s Point route before pushing on to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
Experience the original Kilimanjaro trekking route with AfricanTrust Safari—professional guides, comfortable huts, delicious meals, and personalized attention from start to summit.
| Duration | 5–6 Days (Recommended 6 Days) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Level | Moderate (Shorter acclimatization compared to other routes) |
| Starting Point | Marangu Gate (Southeastern Kilimanjaro) |
| Ending Point | Marangu Gate (Same route up & down) |
| Highest Point | Uhuru Peak–5,895 meters (19,341 ft) |
| Best Seasons | June to October & December to February |
| Accommodation | Comfortable mountain huts with bunk beds & dining halls |
| Success Rate | Approx. 70–80% (Higher with 6-day itinerary) |
| Scenery | Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, wide saddle plains |
The Marangu Route begins with a scenic journey through villages and banana plantations before entering dense rainforest at the Marangu Gate. Wildlife such as blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, and a rich variety of birds are commonly spotted on the first day.
Trekkers ascend steadily toward Mandara Hut and then toward the Maundi Crater viewpoint. The landscape gradually shifts into open moorlands and heather zones as climbers approach Horombo Hut. The upper slopes feature the dramatic and expansive Kibo Saddle, a desert-like basin between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
The summit push begins at midnight from Kibo Hut, ascending past Gilman’s Point along the crater rim before reaching Uhuru Peak. With Africantrust Safari’s experienced guides, climbers enjoy safe pacing, comfortable hut accommodation, hearty meals, and expert care throughout the journey.
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most traditional and popular trail up Mount Kilimanjaro. It begins on the southeastern side of the mountain at Marangu Gate and descends via the same path, offering climbers a combination of comfortable hut accommodation and scenic rainforest and alpine landscapes.
The Marangu Route officially begins at Marangu Gate, located near the town of Marangu, roughly 1.5 hours from Moshi. Climbers register with the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA) and begin their ascent through lush tropical rainforest trails filled with wildlife, including colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and tropical birds.
Climbers descend via the same Marangu Route path, returning to Marangu Gate after summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). The descent passes through the alpine moorland and rainforest zones, allowing trekkers to enjoy a scenic farewell to the mountain.
The Marangu Route starts at Marangu Gate, ascending through dense rainforest to Mandara Hut, then the moorland to Horombo Hut, and finally alpine desert to Kibo Hut before the final push to Uhuru Peak. The descent retraces the same route, offering a classic southeast ascent and descent.
Map illustration: Marangu Gate → Mandara Hut → Horombo Hut → Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Kibo Hut → Horombo Hut → Mandara Hut → Marangu Gate.
Begin at Marangu Gate and enjoy hut-based comfort along the way with Africantrust Safari, experts in safe, guided, and unforgettable Marangu Route climbs.
Book Via Email Book Via WhatsAppThe Marangu Route passes through distinct ecological zones, from lush rainforest at the base to arctic summit at Uhuru Peak. Each zone presents unique scenery, wildlife, and climatic challenges.
Climbers begin in dense Montane Rainforest, home to tropical birds, monkeys, and abundant plant life. This warm, humid zone provides a gentle introduction to the mountain.
Above the rainforest, the landscape opens to moorlands and alpine vegetation, including giant heathers and lobelias. Temperatures cool, and the air becomes drier.
Sparse vegetation, volcanic rocks, and sand-like terrain define this dry, high-altitude zone. Prepare for intense UV and fluctuating temperatures.
The extreme summit zone features snow, ice, and rock. Oxygen levels drop, and temperatures can fall below freezing at any time.
| Zone | Altitude Range (m) | Temperature Range (°C) | Main Vegetation | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rainforest | 1,860 – 2,700 | 15–22 | Camphor trees, ferns | Humid, green forest with monkeys and birds |
| Heath & Moorland | 2,700 – 4,000 | 10–20 (Day), 5–10 (Night) | Heather, Lobelias | Open slopes with panoramic mountain views |
| Alpine Desert | 4,000 – 5,000 | 5–15 (Day) / -5 (Night) | Grasses, lichens | Dry, rocky terrain with wide views |
| Arctic Summit | 5,000 – 5,895 | -10 to -20 | None | Snow, ice, glaciers – summit area |
The Marangu Route allows climbers to experience Kilimanjaro’s diverse zones while enjoying the comfort of mountain huts, making it ideal for first-time trekkers and those seeking a well-supported adventure.
Book Via Email Book Via WhatsAppAmong all Kilimanjaro routes, the Marangu Route, also called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the most traditional and accessible trail to reach the summit. Here’s why many climbers and travel experts prefer it for a comfortable yet rewarding ascent.
Unlike other routes that require camping, the Marangu Route provides cozy huts at Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo — offering warm meals, beds, and shelters for climbers.
The Marangu Route features moderate altitude gains and scheduled acclimatization stops, helping reduce altitude sickness risks and ensuring a high summit success rate for trekkers.
As the oldest route on Kilimanjaro, Marangu is clearly marked and easy to navigate. It’s perfect for first-time climbers and those who prefer a well-established, safe path to the summit.
The combination of gradual ascent, hut accommodations, and experienced guides contributes to a consistently high success rate for climbers choosing Marangu.
From tropical rainforest at the base to alpine desert near the summit, the Marangu Route offers rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and excellent photo opportunities.
Marangu offers an accessible yet rewarding climb with well-paced days and moderate difficulty — perfect for climbers who want comfort without compromising the adventure.
At AfricanTrust Safari, we make your Kilimanjaro climb an unforgettable experience filled with comfort, safety, and authentic Tanzanian hospitality.
Our licensed guides have led hundreds of successful Kilimanjaro climbs, prioritizing your safety, motivation, and enjoyment from start to summit.
With well-equipped huts along the Marangu Route, climbers enjoy comfortable beds, dining areas, and reliable shelter throughout their trek.
Our chefs prepare energy-rich meals daily, including vegetarian and vegan options, keeping you strong and healthy during the climb.
We ensure fair wages, proper equipment, and insurance for our porters. We proudly support the KPAP initiative for porter welfare.
Most of our climbers reach the summit successfully and leave glowing reviews, reflecting our dedication to safety, comfort, and a memorable experience.
Based in Moshi, we combine local knowledge with international service standards, ensuring a seamless and authentic climbing experience.
Here are common questions about climbing the Marangu Route. Contact us for more details!
Choose your perfect Kilimanjaro adventure – comfortable huts, rewarding climbs, and unforgettable memories.
Ideal for climbers with limited time, this fast-paced itinerary offers cozy hut accommodations while providing a challenging and rewarding ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Most popular itinerary balancing comfort and summit success. Enjoy more time for acclimatization while staying in huts and experiencing Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.
Designed for climbers seeking extra rest and maximum summit success. More acclimatization days increase your chances of a safe and enjoyable ascent to Uhuru Peak.
Luxury option for climbers preferring a relaxed pace with maximum acclimatization. Extended time in huts, extra scenic hikes, and less fatigue while reaching Uhuru Peak.
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