The 6-day Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the only trail on Mount Kilimanjaro that offers hut accommodations, providing a more comfortable trekking experience compared to camping. This route is ideal for climbers seeking a slightly easier ascent with less rugged conditions. The Marangu Route is known for its gradual slopes, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to enjoy diverse landscapes, from rainforests to alpine meadows, volcanic rock formations, and glaciers. The additional acclimatization day improves summit success rates, making it a popular choice for first-time climbers.
The trek begins at Marangu Gate with registration and an introduction to your mountain team. The trail ascends gently through a lush rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife. The day ends at Mandara Hut (2,700 meters), a cozy lodge surrounded by a clearing in the forest.
Leaving the rainforest, trekkers enter the heather and moorland zone. This section features rolling hills, volcanic rock formations, and views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The day ends at Horombo Hut (3,720 meters), offering a fantastic vantage point of the mountain.
This day is critical for acclimatization. Trekkers ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 meters), where This extra day is crucial for acclimatization and involves a short hike to Zebra Rocks (3,980 meters) or Mawenzi Ridge before returning to Horombo Hut. The acclimatization hike helps prepare your body for the higher altitudes ahead.hey experience high altitudes before descending to Barranco Camp (3,900 meters). The “climb high, sleep low” method is key to acclimatization and prepares climbers for the summit ahead.
The trail leads through the alpine desert as you approach Kibo Hut (4,703 meters), located at the base of the final ascent. The environment becomes stark, with little vegetation, and the air thins as the altitude increases. Trekkers rest early to prepare for the midnight summit attempt.
The summit push begins around midnight, with climbers ascending to Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters) on the crater rim before continuing to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), Africa’s highest point. After celebrating the achievement, trekkers descend back to Horombo Hut for much-needed rest.
The final leg of the journey descends through the lush rainforest, ending at Marangu Gate. Successful climbers receive a certificate to commemorate their achievement before returning to Moshi for a well-deserved celebration.
The final descent takes you through lush rainforests to Mweka Gate, where you receive your summit certificate. Transportation will take you back to Moshi for rest and celebration.