Marangu Route

The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is the oldest, most well-established route on Kilimanjaro.

This is the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations in lieu of camping. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts have communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut.

Many favor Marangu because it is the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope and direct path. However, the short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization difficult. The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. Marangu is unfortunately less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent are along the same path. It is also the most crowded route for that reason.

Northland Safaris offers Marangu as a 5- or 6-day private climb. The 5-day variation does not have an acclimatization day on day 3 at Horombo Hut.

How Long is the Marangu Route?

The distance of the Marangu route is approximately 82 km or 50 miles.

How Many Days Does It Take to Climb Kilimanjaro on the Marangu Route?

The Marangu route is typically done in 5 days, but the 6-day variation is significantly better.

How Hard is it to Climb Kilimanjaro on the Marangu Route?

The Marangu route is considered a hard route due to its short duration. Though the elevation gain is gradual and not strenuous, the short time spent on the mountain means climbers may have a difficult time acclimatizing.

What is the Success Rate of Climbing Kilimanjaro on the Marangu Route?

The park service last reported that the success rate of the 5-day Marangu route is only around 30% and the 6-day Marangu route is about 50%. Our Marangu success rates are consistently 15-20% higher than these figures.

How Much Does It Cost to Climb Kilimanjaro on the Marangu Route?

The cost to climb the Marangu route depends on the number of days. Our current pricing for a private climb on the 5-day Marangu route starts at $2,100 per person.

Tour Map