The Marangu Route, often called the Coca-Cola Route, is one of Mount Kilimanjaro’s most historic and accessible trails, celebrated for its gentle slopes, well-marked paths, and beautiful scenery. Offering a balance of challenge and comfort, this route is ideal for first-time climbers or those seeking a gradual ascent while still enjoying the incredible landscapes of Kilimanjaro. Trekkers can choose a day hike to explore the lower rainforest zones, or embark on a multi-day hike, spending a night at the Mandara Huts (2,700m) to rest and acclimatize before continuing upward.


The route typically takes 5 to 6 days, allowing for a well-paced climb that increases your chances of reaching the summit successfully. As you ascend, the vegetation gradually changes from lush rainforest to heath and moorland, and then into the stark beauty of alpine desert. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views, encounter unique high-altitude flora, and feel the quiet majesty of the mountain as you approach the higher camps.


The summit push begins in the early hours, usually around midnight, under a starlit sky. Climbers make their way slowly but steadily through the cold, thin air, crossing rocky slopes and volcanic scree. As the first light of dawn breaks, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters, where the view over the crater and surrounding plains is truly unforgettable. After celebrating your achievement and taking in the incredible scenery, you’ll begin the descent back down the Marangu Route, retracing your steps through alpine desert, moorland, and forest until returning safely to the trailhead.



With its comfortable huts, manageable gradients, and 5–6 day schedule, the Marangu Route offers a rewarding, scenic, and achievable way to summit Kilimanjaro while enjoying the unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes of the mountain.