The Legendary “Coca-Cola” Route – Comfort, Scenery & High Success Rates
The Marangu Route is Kilimanjaro’s original and most popular trekking path, famously known as the “Coca-Cola Route” due to its hut accommodations and easier logistics. This 6-day trek is perfect for those seeking a gradual ascent, well-established trails, and the comfort of sleeping in mountain huts rather than tents. With an added acclimatization day, your chances of summit success are greatly improved.
From lush rainforest to alpine desert and the iconic icefields of Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the Marangu Route offers a diverse and unforgettable journey to the Roof of Africa.
Into the Heart of the Rainforest
Elevation: 1,860m to 2,700m (6,100 ft to 8,860 ft)
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
After breakfast in Moshi, we’ll transfer you to the Marangu Gate to complete park formalities. Your trek begins through a lush rainforest teeming with exotic birds and monkeys, including the blue monkey. Tonight, settle into the cozy Mandara Hut—your first taste of mountain hut life.
Pro Tip: Stay hydrated and take it slow to adjust to the altitude.
Overnight: Mandara Hut (wooden cabins)
🍽️ Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Transition from Forest to Moorland
Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m (8,860 ft to 12,200 ft)
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Heath / Moorland
Today’s hike leads you out of the rainforest into open heathland, where giant lobelias and groundsels dominate the landscape. On clear days, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks—an inspiring sight of what lies ahead.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Climb High, Sleep Low – Your Key to Success
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,400m (12,200 ft to 14,400 ft)
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
A vital acclimatization day. Take a scenic hike to Mawenzi Ridge, where surreal alpine views stretch out in all directions. After soaking in the scenery and snapping photos, descend back to Horombo Hut for a restful afternoon.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Crossing the Saddle to Base Camp
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m (12,200 ft to 15,430 ft)
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s trek crosses the barren Saddle, a stark alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo. The air grows thinner, so pace yourself as you approach Kibo Hut—your final stop before summit night. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the ultimate climb.
⚠️ Summit briefing: Early dinner and lights out by 7 PM—your summit push starts around midnight.
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Summit Day – The Roof of Africa Awaits!
Ascent: 4,703m to 5,895m (15,430 ft to 19,341 ft)
Descent: 5,895m to 3,720m (12,200 ft)
Distance: 6 km up / 16 km down (4 miles up / 10 miles down)
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours ascent / 5–6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic to Heath
Under a starry sky, begin your summit attempt via a steep, switchback trail to Gilman’s Point (5,681m). Watch the sun rise over the vast African plains—an unforgettable moment—then press on to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
Celebrate your achievement with photos at the summit before making your careful descent back to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved dinner and deep sleep.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Victory Lap – Descend to the Rainforest
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m (12,200 ft to 6,100 ft)
Distance: 20 km / 12 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Savor your last morning on the mountain as you descend through lush forest to Marangu Gate. Celebrate your success and collect your summit certificate—green for Gilman’s Point and gold for Uhuru Peak. Your driver will be waiting to whisk you back to Moshi or Arusha for a hot shower and celebration.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
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