Summit Kilimanjaro Via Marangu

Safari summary

The Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route," is one of the most popular paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m). It is the only route with hut accommodations, making it a preferred choice for trekkers seeking more comfort. The route typically takes 5 or 6 days, with an optional acclimatization day at Horombo Hut, which improves summit success rates.

Key Features
Distance: ~72 km (45 miles) round trip

Duration: 5-6 days (depending on acclimatization choice)

Difficulty: Moderate, with a gradual ascent

Accommodation: Dormitory-style huts (Mandara, Horombo, and Kibo)

Scenery: Rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers

Success Rate: Higher with a 6-day itinerary due to better acclimatization

Route Itinerary & Acclimatization Options
5-Day Standard Itinerary
Day 1: Marangu Gate (1,860m) to Mandara Hut (2,700m) – Rainforest hike (4-5 hours, 8 km).

Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Moorland trek with great views (6-8 hours, 12 km).

Day 3: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,703m) – Alpine desert zone (6-8 hours, 10 km).

Day 4: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & descent to Horombo Hut – Midnight summit attempt via Gilman’s Point (5,685m) (10-15 hours, 22 km).

Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Descend through rainforest (5-7 hours, 20 km).

6-Day Itinerary (Recommended for Acclimatization)
Extra Day at Horombo Hut (Day 3):

Hike to Mawenzi Ridge (4,310m) or Zebra Rocks (4,020m) for acclimatization.

Return to Horombo Hut for overnight stay before proceeding to Kibo.

Improves altitude adjustment and increases summit success rate.

Pros & Cons
Hut accommodations (no camping required)
Gradual ascent makes it manageable for beginners
Shorter total duration compared to other routes
6-day option improves success rate with acclimatization
Lower summit success rate on the 5-day version
Less scenic as the descent follows the same path

Best Time to Climb
Dry Seasons (Best Conditions): January-March & June-October

Rainy Seasons (More Challenging): April-May & November-December

Who Should Choose Marangu?
Beginners looking for an easier, well-established path

Trekkers preferring hut accommodations over camping

Those with limited time but still want to experience Kilimanjaro

For the best chance of reaching the summit, the 6-day itinerary with an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Hut is highly recommended.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	None
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	January, February, April, May, June, July, August, September, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Kilimanjaro

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Internal flights
• International flights
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas