Enjoy Homely Huts on Kilimanjaro’s Classic Path

Marangu Route

The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the oldest path up Mount Kilimanjaro. It is unique because you can sleep in huts instead of tents. This route is easier to walk because it has gentle slopes. Many climbers choose it because it’s simpler and has clear paths, making it one of the most popular ways to reach the top of Africa.

In the mountains there are only two grades: you can either do it, or you can’t

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Marangu is usually completed in 5 to 6 days, which is faster than some other routes. Because of this quick climb, there’s less time to get used to the high altitude, which can make reaching the top harder. Along the way, you’ll stop at beautiful spots like Mandara and Kibo huts, where you can rest and enjoy amazing views.

Some of the best parts of the Marangu Route include:

  • Sleeping in cosy huts each night.
  • Walking through lush forests and wide-open moorlands.
  • Exploring the beautiful Maundi Crater.

With Kili Vikings, you can choose Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages for a 5 to 6-day journey on the Marangu Route.  This climb is carefully planned to mix challenging hikes with plenty of rest.

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Overview

Marangu Map

The journey on the Marangu Route starts at Marangu Gate, which is 1,870 meters above sea level on the southeastern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. You can reach the gate after a one-hour drive from Moshi or a two-hour drive from Arusha, enjoying beautiful scenery along the way.

This route takes climbers to the summit of Uhuru Peak from the southeast and uses the same path for both climbing up and coming down, which might make the scenery a bit repetitive compared to other routes that have different paths for descent.

Highlights

Trip Highlights

At A Glance

Marangu Route

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Marangu Route

Find answers to common queries about this Kilimanjaro climbing route here.

How difficult is the Marangu Route?

The Marangu Route is less challenging than other Kilimanjaro routes because it offers hut accommodations. The 6-day option, allowing more time for acclimatization, is easier than the rushed 5-day hike.

What is the distance of the Marangu Route and the typical completion time?

The Marangu Route covers 82 km or 50 miles and is ideally completed in 6 days for better acclimatization, although the minimum time required is 5 days.

What is the Marangu Route's summit success rate?

The Marangu Route has a lower success rate due to insufficient acclimatization on the quicker 5-day trek. Choosing the 6-day hike significantly increases success rates to over 90%.

What scenery will I see on the Marangu Route?

You will trek through rainforests, moorlands, alpine zones, and glacial areas on the Marangu Route, descending the same way you ascend.

Are there showers available on the Marangu Route?

Yes, cold showers and flushing toilets are available at some huts like Mandara and Horombo on the Marangu Route.

What is the best time to journey through the Marangu Route?

The best months to climb Marangu are from July to September when the weather is stable and dry. It's advisable to avoid the rainy months of April and May.

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Marangu Route

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