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The Marangu Route, also known as the Coca-Cola Route, is the oldest, most historic, and one of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for its hut accommodations, gentle slopes, and well-maintained paths, it offers one of the most comfortable experiences for trekkers wanting to reach the Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
If you’re planning to climb the Kilimanjaro Marangu Route, this complete guide covers everything you need: distance, itinerary, difficulty, success rate, prices, packing list, and the best time to climb.
For expert planning and bookings, visit Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
The Marangu Route Kilimanjaro is the only route where climbers sleep in mountain huts instead of tents. This makes it especially appealing to trekkers who prefer a bit more comfort and protection from the weather.
It approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast and includes scenic rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and Arctic summit zones.
Total Distance: 72 km (45 miles)
Recommended Duration: 5–6 days
Starting Point: Marangu Gate (1,860 m)
Highest Point: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
If you are wondering how long is the Marangu Route, the ideal climb is 6 days for better acclimatization.
The Marangu huts include:
Mandara Hut
Horombo Hut
Kibo Hut
This makes it popular for climbers who don’t want to sleep in tents.
The trail is not steep, making it suitable for beginners.
This was the first official Kilimanjaro route used by early explorers.
Huts provide shelter that other routes do not.
The Marangu Route offers two main itineraries: 5 days and 6 days. The 6-day option is highly recommended for better acclimatization and a higher success rate.
Hike through lush rainforest
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks
Distance: 12 km
Extra day increases success rate significantly.
Alpine desert terrain
Distance: 10 km
Start at midnight, summit at sunrise
Return to Horombo Hut
Descend through rainforest
You can read more detailed itineraries at Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
The Marangu Route is moderately difficult, but its 5-day version has a lower success rate because it does not give enough time to acclimatize.
Average success rate:
5-Day Marangu Route: 55%
6-Day Marangu Route: 85%
Choosing 6 days is strongly recommended.
Prices typically range between:
| Package Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard | $1,680–$2,308 |
| Mid-Range | $2,800–$3,510 |
| Luxury | $5,950–$7,300 |
Prices include hut fees, park fees, meals, guides, porters, rescue fees, and more. For real-time pricing, seasonal offers, and group discounts, visit Mount Kilimanjaro Guide.
The best months to climb are:
January – March
June – October
These seasons offer the best weather and visibility.
This route is ideal for:
Beginners
Climbers who prefer huts over tents
Groups and families
Trekkers climbing during the rainy season
Anyone wanting a gentle, classic route to Uhuru Peak
Essentials include:
Layered clothing
Thermal base layers
Waterproof jacket & trousers
High-quality hiking boots
Headlamp (for summit night)
Trekking poles
Sleeping bag (provided by some operators)
The Marangu Route is 72 km (45 miles) roundtrip, taking 5-6 days.
30-50% for 5 days, 50-75% for 6 days; up to 92% with top operators.
72 km total, with daily hikes of 8-22 km.
Overall 65%; Marangu lower without extension.
Varies; Marangu is 45 miles.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is a lifetime adventure. If you want a comfortable, scenic, and historic route with hut accommodations, the Marangu Route is a perfect choice.



































