5-Day Kilimanjaro Climb: Marangu Route (Coca-Cola Route) Expedition

Summit Africa’s Highest Peak with Hut Accommodations & Expert Guides

The 5-day Marangu Route, nicknamed the “Coca-Cola Route,” is Kilimanjaro’s only trail offering mountain hut accommodations, ideal for trekkers seeking comfort and camaraderie. Designed for optimal acclimatization, this scenic southeast approach traverses rainforests, alpine meadows, and lunar-like deserts before summiting Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft). With moderate traffic and hut-to-hut logistics, it’s a favorite for climbers balancing adventure with accessibility.

Detailed Itinerary

Elevation: 1,860m → 2,700m
Distance: 8km | Hike Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Lush Montane Forest

  • Morning: Transfer from Moshi to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate for registration.

  • Trek: Hike through misty rainforests alive with Colobus monkeys and birdlife.

  • Highlight: Detour to Maundi Crater for panoramic views of Kenya’s plains.

  • Evening: Settle into Mandara Hut’s cozy bunkrooms.
    Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 2,700m → 3,700m
Distance: 12km | Hike Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Heathland & Alpine Meadows

  • Trek: Ascend into open moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and groundsels.

  • Views: Marvel at Kibo and Mawenzi peaks dominating the horizon.

  • Acclimatization Tip: Hydrate frequently to combat altitude effects.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,700m → 4,700m
Distance: 9km | Hike Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

  • Trek: Cross the stark “saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo, a Mars-like terrain.

  • Prep: Rest early; summit push begins at midnight!

  • Pro Tip: Refill water at the last available point.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 4,700m → 5,895m → 3,700m
Distance: 21km | Hike Time: 12-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic Summit Zone → Alpine Desert

  • Midnight Start: Tackle steep scree slopes under starlight to Gilman’s Point (5,681m).

  • Summit Push: Trek the crater rim to Uhuru Peak – Africa’s rooftop!

  • Celebrate: Snap photos at the iconic signpost before descending to Horombo Hut.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Elevation: 3,700m → 1,700m
Distance: 20km | Hike Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

  • Descent: Retrace steps through heathland and rainforest, spotting wildlife.

  • Certificates: Collect your Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate at Marangu Gate.

  • Transfer: Return to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration!
    Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Exclusions

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