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The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is unique in being the only route that offers hut accommodations instead of camping. Here’s an overview of the route:
The Marangu Route is an excellent option for those looking for a relatively easier and shorter journey to Kilimanjaro’s summit, but it’s important to prepare for the altitude challenge.
After registration at the Marangu Gate, you begin your trek through the lush rainforest zone. You may encounter wildlife and enjoy the dense vegetation. The trail is well-maintained, and the hike is relatively gentle. You will spend the night at Mandara Hut. Starting Elevation: 1,870 m (6,135 ft) Ending Elevation: 2,700 m (8,858 ft) Distance: 8 km (5 miles) Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Rainforest
On this day, you leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone, which is characterized by grasslands, shrubs, and heather. Views of the two peaks, Mawenzi and Kibo, emerge as you gain elevation. The trail is steeper than on the first day. You will spend the night at Horombo Hut. Starting Elevation: 2,700 m (8,858 ft) Ending Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) Distance: 12 km (7 miles) Hiking Time: 6-7 hours Habitat: Moorland
Today’s trek crosses the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, a barren and desert-like terrain. The landscape becomes increasingly sparse, with rocky paths and strong winds. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon, where you will rest and prepare for the early morning summit attempt.
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The climb is steep, and you will first reach Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) at the crater rim after about 5-6 hours. From there, it’s another 1-2 hours along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, you descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and continue descending to Horombo Hut. Starting Elevation: 4,703 m (15,430 ft) Summit Elevation: 5,895 m (19,341 ft) Ending Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) Distance: 22 km (14 miles) (Round Trip) Hiking Time: 10-14 hours Habitat: Arctic zone (Summit) and Moorland (Descent)
On the final day, you descend from Horombo Hut back through the moorland and rainforest zones to the Marangu Gate, where you will sign out and receive your summit certificate. Starting Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) Ending Elevation: 1,870 m (6,135 ft) Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles) Hiking Time: 6-7 hours Habitat: Moorland and Rainforest
On this extra day, you can take a rest or acclimatization hike to Zebra Rocks (around 4,000 m), helping your body adjust to the high altitude and increasing your chances of summit success. Starting Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) Ending Elevation: 3,720 m (12,205 ft) Hiking Time: Varies Habitat: Moorland
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