Our most complete full guide to the 6 day Marangu Route on Kilimanjaro Group Joining Tours, also known as the "Coca-Cola" route, provides a comprehensive overview of one of the most popular and accessible paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. As the oldest route, Marangu is famous for its dormitory-style huts, including Mandara Hut (2,700 meters), Horombo Hut (3,720 meters), and Kibo Hut (4,700 meters), where climbers are provided with bunk beds and shared dining and restroom facilities. Despite the inclusion of beds and pillows, hikers are still required to bring their own sleeping bags. The route is favored for its gentle slope and easier trail, making it one of the most accessible options for those aiming to summit Kilimanjaro. However, the relatively short duration of the trek—typically completed in 5 to 6 days—can make acclimatization more challenging, as climbers have less time to adjust to the altitude. The ascent and descent follow the same path, meaning there are fewer scenic views compared to other routes. Nevertheless, Marangu’s ease and quick ascent make it ideal for those seeking a faster Kilimanjaro climbing experience, and its popularity endures as a top choice for climbers.
Elevation (ft): 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
Hut: Mandara Hut.
We head to the Marangu Gate for the necessary formalities before beginning our trek. The trail climbs through a tropical rain forest near the upper edge of the forest line, where we sometimes see playful blue monkeys. The trail then widens to expose beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 14,160 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Heath
This extra day is used for acclimatization. We hike towards or all the way to Mawenzi Hut and back. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today we climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach our campsite which sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once at camp we rest, enjoy an early dinner and prepare for summit day.
Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 22 km
Hiking Time: 10-13 hours
Habitat: Arctic
We wake in the middle of the night and begin the final push to reach the Roof of Africa. The trail to Gilman’s Point is very steep and the ascent will be slow and steady. From Gilman’s, it is a traverse along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. We stay at the summit for a short time, to take photos and enjoy the views, before retracing our steps to all the way back to Horombo Hut.
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
A long trek is in store for today, however it is mostly downhill. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu Gate we pick up our certificate that proves our achievement and catch our vehicle transfer to hotel in Moshi.
Day of departure: Transfer to the Kilimanjaro Airport.