Famously known as the “Coca-Cola” route, Marangu Route route is the oldest and most established route on Mt. Kilimanjaro.
It is the only route that provides hut accommodation with bunk beds to the climbers of Kilimanjaro thus attracting many trekkers making it one of the most crowded routes especially during the peak season.
It has a low summit success rate as it has a poor acclimatization profile attributed to its short time frame. Highly recommended for more experienced mountain climbers.
The distance of this route is 72 km and it takes you through a misty rain-forest, moorland, rocky paths and a desert like alpine.
The ascent starts from Marangu gate in the South. Descends via the same route to Marangu gate in the South. Yes, ascent and descent on the Marangu route is the same, the main reason it is considered a less scenic route despite its beautiful views.
Your 6 days on Marangu route:
- Day 1: Marangu gate to Mandara hut (1,843 – 2,700m)
- Day 2: Mandara hut to Horombo hut (2,700 – 3,720m)
- Day 3: Horombo hut to Mawenzi ridge (3,720 – 4,315m), Mawenzi ridge to Horombo hut (4,315 – 3,720m)
- Day 4: Horombo hut to Kibo hut (3,720 – 4,703m)
- Day 5: Kibo hut to Uhuru peak-summit (4,703 – 5,895m), Uhuru peak to Horombo hut (5,895 – 3,720m)
- Day 6: Horombo hut to Marangu gate (3,720 – 1,843m)
