Mount Kilimanjaro Marangu Route
Reach for the stars on this epic adventure to the summit of Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, dubbed the “Coca-Cola route”. Enjoy spectacular views of varied landscapes and breathtaking sunrises on this high-success trek to the top of Africa – literally! Rest in comfortable huts with the unique luxury of running water and cooked meals, and be fully fueled for your challenging commitment to check of a true bucket-list experience!
And why stop there? All adventurers are most welcome to top their memorable journey off with a perfect ending by adding a brief Safari adventure in the wonders of Tanzania, or a paradise-like experience in the heat by the incredible Zanzibar’s white beaches and crystal-clear waters. The possibilities in mixing and matching destinations are endless with World Adventure Tours!
Rates vary due to seasons and availability - request a quote for precise, favorable pricing and tailored travel planning.
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Beginner-friendly with a high success rate to Uhuru Peak
Comfortable huts with convenient amenities
Stunning views and deep cultural insights of Tanzania
Tailored support from qualified mountain guides
Gear and equipment rentals are available through our service
Proud members of Mount Kilimanjaro Porters Society
Climb Kilimanjaro via Marangu Route
The Maragnou Route, or the “Coca-cola Route, to the summit of Kilimanjaro offers a perfectly balanced blend of adventure and comfort with its mix of gradual altitude increases and relative luxury of huts with running water – in most cases. These are boxes that checks off a journey with a high success rate, all while being a rewarding challenge that will leave you with the memory of every step being worth all the breathtaking views and self-developing experiences it will carry!
Climbing Marangu Route solo? Don’t worry, all travelers have the option to choose between a private climb or to be placed in a group with other climbers. Solo adventurers looking to join a group will be well taken care of, ensuring they can share the experience with other trekkers.
A Glimpse of the Itinerary
After your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted with a warm welcome at Springlands hotel for a good night’s rest before the journey sets off! The trek officially starts at the Marangu Gate, and through lushy rainforests you will reach Mandara Hut where it’s time to recharge for tomorrow’s adventure of unique alpine deserts and stunning vistas. Next awaits the ascend to Horombo hut, where you’ll be able to spend an optional extra acclimatization day – for better adaption to the altitude and increasing your chances of a successful summit.
During your climb on the Marangu Route you’ll be crossing unbelievable landscapes and wander ahead towards Kibo hut – preparing you for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak. The reward is the sun rising above Africa as the continent awakens, a completely unforgettable moment! The descent brings you back to Horombo Hut, and eventually Springlands Hotel where the comforts of a hot shower and the celebration of your achievement await.
Sprinkle Some Safari or Zanzibar Perfection on It
After conquering such a demanding challenge, why not reward yourself with a brief custom safari adventure of choice, or a relaxing beach holiday by crystal-clear waters in the outstanding Zanzibar as the cherry on top? Our seamless travel packages are made with endless of opportunities to combine exactly as you please – allowing you to craft your own African destiny with us. The sky is the limit with World Adventure Tours!
Reaching the summet of Kilimanjaro via the Marangu route is an incredible achievement. If you’re interested in other unique perspective of Kilimanjaro – check out the Lemosho route! Or if you’re up for a real challenge, check out the Whiskey Route for a hike of a lifetime!
Day 1 |
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT – MOSHI | SPRINGLANDS HOTELArrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be picked up and transferred to Springlands Hotel or similar overnight. Overnight at Springlands Hotel (bed and breakfast) or Similar. |
Day 2 |
MOSHI | MARANGU GATE | MANDARA HUTAltitude: 1,800 m – 2,720 m Hiking time: 4 hoursLeave Springlands hotel at about 8:00 a.m. and drive 45 minutes to Marangu Gate on the eastern side of Kilimanjaro. Do the necessary paperwork at the park gate, such as registrations. Begin hiking at about 10:30 a.m. Hike through the rainforest from the park gate to Mandara Hut, which takes about 4 hours. Stop halfway for lunch. Reach the Mandara Huts at about 2 or 3 p.m. Unpack, rest, and have some tea or coffee. Dinner is served during the early evening, at about 7 p.m. A side trip to Maundi Crater (about 15 minutes away) is a good way to see the surroundings and the views of Kenya and Northern Tanzania. Bathrooms are available with running water. |
Day 3 |
MANDARA HUT | HOROMBO HUTAltitude: 2,720 m – 3,720 m Hiking time: 5-6 hoursWake up for breakfast (approx. 7:30 a.m.) and pack for the next leg. Break camp at about 8:30 am and hike to Horombo Hut. This leg should take 5 to 6 hrs. You travel through lower-heath land with small shrubs being the main vegetation. Stop halfway for lunch. Views of Mawenzi are amazing. The summit of Kibo can be seen from Horombo Huts. Arrive at Horombo Huts at about 3 p.m. Rest, unpack, and prepare for dinner. Bathrooms are available with running water. |
Day 4 |
HOROMBO HUT (Acclimatization Day)This day you will have an extra day at Horombo Hut (3,720 m) for acclimatization. It will be great training for your body to get used to the altitude as you walk around the hut up to zebra rocks at an altitude of 4,100 m and back. You will get spectacular views and familiarize yourself with summit weather. You will overnight at Horombo Hut. |
Day 5 |
HOROMBO HUT | KIBO HUTAltitude: 3,720 m – 4,720 m Hiking time: 6–7 hoursWake up for breakfast as usual (if you wake before sun-up, you can get some great sunrise photos). Pack and begin the hike to Kibo Huts. The first half of the day’s hike traverses the upper heath land, while the second half crosses the vast saddle that connects Mawenzi and Kibo. The saddle is an alpine desert that resembles a lunar landscape. Be careful to notice signs of altitude sickness. The day’s hike should take 6 to 7 hours, stopping halfway for lunch. There is no running water at Kibo Huts. |
Day 6 |
KIBO HUT | SUMMIT | HOROMBO HUTAltitude: 4,720 m – 5,895 m Hiking time: 7 hoursWake up to a light breakfast at around midnight, and then prepare for the summit ascent. This part of the hike is carried out in the early morning before dawn so that the climbers reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Leave at about 1:00 a.m. and reach Gilman’s Point at about 7:00 a.m. The climbers are met with views of the crater from Gilman’s Point because it is on the Crater Rim. Another 2 hours of hiking brings the climber to UhuruPeak at about 8:30 a.m. From there, you will descend back to Kibo Huts, collect your things, and cross the saddle again at Horombo Huts, where you will spend the night. Eat dinner and get some well-deserved sleep. |
Day 7 |
HOROMBO HUT | MARANGU GATE | SPRINGLANDS HOTELWake, as usual, pack, and descend to Mandara Huts. Have your lunch there and continue to the park gate, where you will be met by your transport back to Moshi. You should reach the park gate around 2 or 3 p.m. You will now drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, Overnight in Springlands hotel. It is recommended to tip guides and porters. This is highly appreciated at the end of their trip. Tips can be given to the main guide at Springlands Hotel. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Stella Point (5,759m) are issued green certificates, and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5,895m) receive gold certificates. Overnight at Springlands Hotel (bed and breakfast) or Similar. |
Day 8 |
MOSHI | KILIMANJARO AIRPORTDepart for the airport or other destinations in Tanzania or Kenya. Zanzibar is a great trip to take after a hard climb. Other trips around Moshi and the Kilimanjaro region can be arranged at a reasonable price. |
Day 1 |
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT – MOSHI | SPRINGLANDS HOTELArrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be picked up and transferred to Springlands Hotel or similar overnight. Overnight at Springlands Hotel (bed and breakfast) or Similar. |
Day 2 |
MOSHI | MARANGU GATE | MANDARA HUTAltitude: 1,800 m – 2,720 m Hiking time: 4 hoursLeave Springlands hotel at about 8:00 a.m. and drive 45 minutes to Marangu Gate on the eastern side of Kilimanjaro. Do the necessary paperwork at the park gate, such as registrations. Begin hiking at about 10:30 a.m. Hike through the rainforest from the park gate to Mandara Hut, which takes about 4 hours. Stop halfway for lunch. Reach the Mandara Huts at about 2 or 3 p.m. Unpack, rest, and have some tea or coffee. Dinner is served during the early evening, at about 7 p.m. A side trip to Maundi Crater (about 15 minutes away) is a good way to see the surroundings and the views of Kenya and Northern Tanzania. Bathrooms are available with running water. |
Day 3 |
MANDARA HUT | HOROMBO HUTAltitude: 2,720 m – 3,720 m Hiking time: 5 – 6 hoursWake up for breakfast (approx. 7:30 a.m.) and pack for the next leg. Break camp at about 8:30 am and hike to Horombo Hut. This leg should take 5 to 6 hrs. You travel through lower-heath land with small shrubs being the main vegetation. Stop halfway for lunch. Views of Mawenzi are amazing. The summit of Kibo can be seen from Horombo Huts. Arrive at Horombo Huts at about 3 p.m. Rest, unpack, and prepare for dinner. Bathrooms are available with running water. |
Day 4 |
HOROMBO HUT | KIBO HUTAltitude: 3,720 m – 4,720 m Hiking time: 5 – 6 hoursAscending, we now pass the last watering point, walking onto the saddle of Kilimanjaro between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Vegetation begins with the upper heathland but disappears into a “moonscape.” Dinner, rest, and prepare for the summit climb. |
Day 5 |
KIBO HUT | SUMMIT | HOROMBO HUTAltitude: 4,720 m – 5,895 m Hiking time: 7 hoursWake to a light breakfast around midnight, and then prepare for the summit ascent. This part of the hike is carried out in the early morning before dawn so that the climbers reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise. Leave at about 1:00 a.m. and reach Gilman’s Point at about 7:00 a.m. The climbers are met with views of the crater from Gilman’s Point because it is on the Crater Rim. Another 2 hours of hiking brings the climber to UhuruPeak at about 8:30 a.m. From there, you will descend back to Kibo Huts, collect your things, and cross the saddle again at Horombo Huts, where you will spend the night. Eat dinner and get some well-deserved sleep. |
Day 6 |
HOROMBO HUT | MARANGU GATE | SPRINGLANDS HOTELWake, as usual, pack, and descend to Mandara Huts. Have your lunch there and continue to the park gate, where you will be met by your transport back to Moshi. You should reach the park gate around 2 or 3 p.m. You will now drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, Overnight in Springlands hotel. It is recommended to tip guides and porters. This is highly appreciated at the end of their trip. Tips can be given to the main guide at Springlands Hotel. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Stella Point (5,759m) are issued green certificates, and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5,895m) receive gold certificates. Overnight at Springlands Hotel (bed and breakfast) or Similar. |
Day 7 |
MOSHI | KILIMANJARO AIRPORTDepart for the airport or other destinations in Tanzania or Kenya. Zanzibar is a great trip to take after a hard climb. Other trips around Moshi and the Kilimanjaro region can be arranged at a reasonable price. |
Your Accessible Path to the Summit of Kilimanjaro
To climb the Kilimanjaro Marangu route is a great option for those who want to climb Kilimanjaro without extensive mountaineering experience and who want to experience the beauty and culture of Tanzania.
- The Coca-cola route has a high success rate, you stay in huts, and the trek is “easier” than the other routes.
- We recommend that you take an acclimatization day to increase your chances.
- We have hand-picked our qualified mountain guides and will adjust the trek for you so that you can make the summit.
- This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Beginner-Friendly Journey via Marangu Route
The Kilimanjaro Marangu route is one of Tanzania’s most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It is often referred to as the “Coca-Cola” route due to the availability of Coca-Cola products along the way. The Marangu route is one of the oldest routes up Kilimanjaro and is well-established, with clear paths and comfortable huts for accommodation. Compared to some of the other routes up Kilimanjaro such as Lemosho and Machame, the Marangu route is considered a moderate difficulty trek. This means that you do not need extensive mountaineering experience to climb it. This trek offers scenic views of the mountain and its surrounding landscape, including lush rainforests, volcanic rocks, and glaciers. The Kilimanjaro Marangu route offers a chance to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, which is a great accomplishment and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tanzania activities
How are the sleeping tents and the standard when I climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
On the Machame route and Lemosho route, you will be sleeping in tents. We use strong, waterproof, and durable tents on Mt Kili climb. The tents are capable of housing 2 to 3 people and are made to withstand tough mountain conditions. They are spacious and create even more room to store luggage. Meals are served in large, warm, and extremely strong tents with good head height and comfy camp chairs.
Do I need specialist equipment to trek Mt Kilimanjaro?
You don’t need to own your own specialist mountain climbing gear. You can rent most of the clothing and equipment that you may need in Tanzania. But bringing your own clothes, well-worn-in boots, and a good sleeping bag is best. You will need a small day pack with enough space for wind and rain clothes, some first aid supplies, 3 liters of water, and snacks. Your packing list should include warm clothes (fleece, wind, and waterproof layers), good polarised sunglasses, sunscreen, and a headlamp. You might prefer to use walking sticks and gaiters, but these can be rented. Even thermal underwear and down jackets can be rented from us. If you think you do not have the correct clothing and gear, please get in touch with us at sales@worldadventuretours.com
Are washrooms available along the climbing routes?
You can rent a portable toilet from the rental store at an extra cost.
Do I get provided drinking water during the trek?
Yes, Porters collect water from the streams, which is boiled before use. This water will be used to fill your water canisters. You can use purification tablets if you have them with you. If you want bottled water up the mountain, you will have to pay extra.
Should I train before to prepare for my Mount Kilimanjaro climb?
You do not need to train before your Kili climb. But, any previous experience or practice will help you increase your chance of making the top. You need to be fit and healthy and have a good pair of worn-in hiking boots. The fitter you are, the more you are likely to enjoy it. It’s best to start your training at least three to six months before your planned climb. You can begin by incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine, such as jogging, hiking, or cycling, to improve your cardiovascular fitness and build endurance. You should also focus on strength training exercises that target your core, legs, and upper body, such as squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks. Strengthening these muscle groups will help you cope with the uphill climbs, rocky terrain, and long days of hiking.
What is the difference between the Lemosho route, the Marangu route, and the Machame route?
The Lemosho Route is considered one of the most scenic routes to climb Kilimanjaro, as it offers stunning views of the mountain from different angles. It is also one of the longer routes, typically taking 7-8 days to complete. The Lemosho route starts on the mountain’s western side and gradually ascends through various landscapes, from dense rainforests to alpine deserts. This route is known for its high success rate due to its gradual ascent profile, allowing climbers to acclimatize well.
The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is the oldest and most popular route to climb Kilimanjaro. It is the only route with sleeping huts instead of tents, which makes it a good option for those who prefer not to camp. The Marangu route is also the shortest route, typically taking 5-6 days to complete. However, due to the fast ascent profile, it has a lower success rate than other routes. The route starts on the southeastern side of the mountain and passes through forests, heathlands, and moorlands.
The Machame Route is considered one of the most challenging routes to climb Kilimanjaro due to its steep ascent profile and several high-altitude days. It is also one of the most scenic routes, offering panoramic views of the mountain and its surroundings. The Machame route typically takes 6-7 days to complete, starting on the southwestern side of the mountain and passing through rainforests, heathlands, and moorlands. This route is known for its high success rate due to its gradual ascent profile and good opportunities for acclimatization.
How many hours per day can I expect to walk on my Kili climb?
The number of hours per day you can expect to walk when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro depends on the route you choose and your individual pace. Generally, you can expect to walk between 4 to 10 hours per day, depending on the route and the itinerary. Here’s a rough breakdown of the average walking hours per day on the three most popular routes:
Lemosho Route: On the Lemosho route, the average walking hours per day are between 5 to 8 hours, with some long days of up to 10 hours. This route has a more gradual ascent profile, allowing for better acclimatization and longer hiking days.
Marangu Route: The Marangu route is the shortest route, with an average walking time of 4 to 6 hours per day. The walking hours are shorter due to the route’s faster ascent profile, which can increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Machame Route: The Machame route has an average walking time of 6 to 8 hours per day, with some long days of up to 10 hours. This route has a steeper ascent profile, which requires more effort and can lead to fatigue.
What is altitude sickness, and how can I avoid this?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition caused by exposure to high altitudes with low oxygen levels. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level, and can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly. The symptoms of altitude sickness can vary in severity but generally include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, altitude sickness can progress to more serious conditions, such as high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening. Suppose someone at some point is not able to continue the route. In that case, our mountain guides will accompany you down or off the mountain on a stretcher, by vehicle, or by air evacuation, depending on the urgency of the problem. Always inform the guides of your condition.
To avoid altitude sickness when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, it’s essential to take the following precautions:
Gradual ascent: Choose a route with a gradual ascent profile, such as the Lemosho or Machame routes, which allows for proper acclimatization. Ascend slowly, taking enough time to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Avoid climbing too quickly or spending too much time at high altitudes.
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to stay hydrated and help your body cope with the altitude. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and other diuretics, as they can dehydrate you and increase the risk of AMS.
Proper nutrition: Eat a balanced diet, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, to provide your body with the energy it needs to cope with the physical demands of the climb.
Medication: Consider taking medication, such as acetazolamide, under the guidance of a doctor to help prevent AMS.
Rest and recovery: Take breaks and rest when needed, especially if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness. Descend to lower altitudes, if necessary, to allow your body to recover.
What type of food can I expect to be served on my Mount Kilimanjaro climb?
Our cooks prepare delicious meals with fresh local ingredients. If you have any special meal requirements, please inform us beforehand at sales@worldadventuretours.com
Do you provide oxygen tanks?
We provide oxygen tanks and complementary pulsometers.
When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
The best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry season, which runs from late June to October and from December to February. The weather is generally dry and sunny during these months, making for better climbing conditions and clearer views. The dry season is divided into two seasons: the short dry season from late December to early February and the long dry season from late June to October. Both of these periods offer good climbing conditions, with the long dry season being the most popular time to climb Kilimanjaro. During the dry season, the temperatures are milder and more predictable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20 to 27°C (68 to 81°F) and nighttime temperatures ranging from 5 to 10°C (41 to 50°F). There is also less precipitation, making the trails less muddy and slippery. While it’s still possible to climb Kilimanjaro during the wet season, from March to May and from November to early December, the weather can be more challenging, with heavy rainfall and cloudy conditions. The trails can also be more slippery and difficult to navigate, and clouds can obscure the views.
What is the Maximum Number of people per group?
Maximum of 8 people per group. If you are a larger group, then we can arrange this accordingly. Just contact us at sales@worldadventuretours.com
Do you recommend travel insurance?
We highly recommend that you have travel insurance before your Mount Kilimanjaro trek. Also, check with your insurance beforehand that climbs over 5000m are included in the insurance.
What is the success rate of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro?
The success rate of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro varies depending on the route, the length of the climb, and other factors such as individual fitness levels and weather conditions. The success rates depend on the route chosen and the number of days. Shorter routes have a low success rate compared to longer routes, with a success rate of 85-90%. The longer the route, the higher the success rate, as you get ample time for acclimatization.
What is the tipping etiquette for safari guides and mountain crews on trips like this?
Tipping is highly appreciated at the end of safari/mountain climb. The size of tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. You should prepare an envelope after your trek for your tip money at the Hotel. You can use US dollars, Euros, TZ Shillings or a combination of these. Please ask the Safari/Climbing coordinator at the Hotel for advice.
RECOMMENDED TIP:
Mountain Climbs: $25-50 USD per Day per Climber to be shared between guides, chefs and porters.
Safaris: Driver/Guide: $35-50 USD per Day per Car. If it is a camping safari there will be a tip for the cook $10 USD per Day.
THESE ARE JUST GUIDELINES AND TIPS CAN BE GIVEN TO SAFARI STAFF/MOUNTAIN CREW ACCORDING TO SERVICES PROVIDED.
Accommodation
Springlands Hotel
Springlands Hotel in Moshi, 29 km from Kilimanjaro, offers accommodation with amenities like an outdoor pool, complimentary parking, a bar, 24-hour reception, and free WiFi. Continental or à la carte breakfast is served at the hotel.
Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a seating area, satellite TV, a kitchenette, dining area, and private bathroom with all essentials, including a kettle. Enjoy a hiking around Moshi, with a mini-supermarket just 3 km away.
Upgrade to Chanya Lodge or Home Villa Arusha or Gran Melia Hotel.
Huts
The majority of the comfortable huts are equipped with bathrooms with running water, although there are exceptions.
Evening meals are served by dedicated cooks, keeping you well-fed and energized to support your journey ahead.
Enjoy basic and functional – and relatively luxurious – amenities set against the backdrop of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes.
All gear and equipment are available to rent through us!
Accommodation Upgrades
Chanya Lodge
Chanya Lodge is located at the foothills of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, just outside Moshi in Tanzania. A convenient drive from the airport it’s perfect for trekkers, tourists, families and business visitors.
The residence offers 32 en-suite rooms, a large pool, a diverse cuisine restaurant and beautiful grassy gardens.
Gran Melia Hotel, Arusha
This magnificent hotel Is located between the majestic Serengeti and Kilimanjaro National Parks, unveiling the natural beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Enjoy an oasis of five-star luxury and comfort with unbeatable facilities, exclusive suites, international cuisine, spa, an infinity pool and a gym – it’s the ideal retreat for an exciting safari adventure or a luxurious business meeting.
Included in the price:
- 2 Nights accommodation at Springlands Hotel – Bed & Breakfast basis
- All park fees
- National Park-approved guides and porters
- Accommodation on the mountain (Marangu Route accommodations are in huts).
- Meals on the mountain
- Transport from Moshi at Springlands hotel to the starting point on the mountain and return to Moshi at Springlands hotel
Excluded from the price:
- Domestic or International flights
- Entry visa to Tanzania
- Travel and health insurance
- Single room supplement at Springlands Hotel
- Guides, porters, and cook tips – Find guidelines in the FAQ
- Mountain gear e.g. sleeping bags, clothes, and shoes but some climbing gear will be available for hire at Springlands Hotel
Rest assured, we’re here to assist with anything not covered in the price.
Your convenience is our priority.
Request A Free Quote!
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