Marangu Route

5 Days, 4 Nights Trek

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro VIA Marangu Route

ROUTE OVERVIEW

The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the oldest, most well-established route on Kilimanjaro. This is the only route that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations in place of camping. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut.

Many favor Marangu because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope and direct path. However the short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization fairly difficult. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. Marangu is, unfortunately, less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent are along the same path. It is also the most crowded route for that reason.

Price Per Person


1 to 2 People	3 to 4 People	Group of 5+
$1,700	$1,650	$1,600

Trekking Highlights

Summary Route Description

Route Map

Best Time to Use the Marangu Route

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is January to March and June to October, when the weather is dry and skies are clear. The route can still be attempted during the short rainy seasons, but trekkers may encounter mud, clouds, and occasional snow.

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, you will meet with your guide for a briefing about the trek, gear check, and discussion of the next day’s plans. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore Moshi, and prepare for the climb.

Altitude: 915m/3,000ft

Accommodation Options (Before and After the Hike):

After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration. The trek begins through lush rainforest, where you may encounter colobus monkeys and other wildlife. The trail ascends gradually, leading to Mandara Hut, located on the edge of the rainforest. Dinner and overnight at Mandara Hut.

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

After breakfast, continue your ascent through the moorland zone, passing the Maundi Crater. The landscape opens up, providing stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend the night. The hut offers impressive views of the summit.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

After breakfast, trek through the alpine desert, crossing the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi. The trail is relatively flat, but the altitude makes the hike challenging. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon, rest, have an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

The summit attempt begins at midnight, with a steep and challenging ascent to Gilman’s Point, followed by a trek along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking views, begin the descent back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest. Continue descending to Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight.

Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles) ascent to Uhuru Peak + 16 km (10 miles) descent to Horombo Hut
Hiking Time: 8-10 hours to the summit, 5-6 hours descent to Horombo Hut
Habitat: Arctic to Moorland

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

After breakfast, continue descending through the moorland and rainforest zones to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your guides. Transfer back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.

Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest

Accommodation:

Meal Plan:

COST BREAKDOWN

Trekking Cost Covers

All entrance fees and Government Taxes
Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure)
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair wages for the mountain crew.
All meals while on the Mountain 
Rescue Fees and all taxes.
Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides 
Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit
Private cook speaking fluent English
Private guide speaking fluent English
Transfers from the Hotel to the Kilimanjaro entrance gate and from the Kilimanjaro exit gate to the hotel.

Does not Cover

Travel insurance
International flights (can be booked for you on request)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Accommodation on day of arrival and departure
Visas & vaccinations
Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.
Private Toilet and hot shower tent.

INQUIRIES & FAQ's

Inquiry Space

Your Trekking & Hiking Questions Answered

When is the best time to climb the 5 Days Marangu Route?

The best climbing periods are during the dry seasons: January to mid-March and June to October. These months offer stable weather, clear summit views, and safer trails.

How should I prepare for the 5 Days Marangu Route?

Prepare with physical training, mental readiness, and gear planning. Cardio, strength exercises, and long hikes with a weighted backpack are recommended. Layered clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sturdy boots are essential. Stay hydrated, eat well, and learn to recognize high-altitude symptoms.

Are there other Kilimanjaro routes besides Marangu?

Yes, other routes include Machame (scenic southern approach), Lemosho (western), Rongai (northern, drier), Umbwe (steep), and the Northern Circuit (longest and most scenic). Marangu stands out for hut accommodations, gradual ascent, and a well-structured six-day climb.

What is the summit success rate for the 5 Days Marangu Route?

Summit success rates for the 5-Day Marangu Route average 75%–80%, depending on fitness, weather, and adherence to acclimatization. Guides carefully monitor trekkers’ pace to optimize the chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.

Is it possible to arrange a safari after Trekking?

Yes, we can arrange a safari for you after you complete the Marangu Route of the Kilimanjaro Trek. Tanzania offers incredible safari destinations, such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, which you can easily add to your adventure. Our team will help you customize an itinerary to suit your preferences, allowing you to experience the best of Tanzanian wildlife after your trek. Simply let us know your interests, and we will arrange an unforgettable safari to complete your Kilimanjaro experience.

Can I join Kilimanjaro group treks on the Marangu Route?

Yes, group treks are available. Groups share porters, enjoy guided support, and create a social trekking experience. Group sizes vary; early booking is recommended.