MARANGU ROUTE THE COCA COLA ROUTE

TheMarangu Route is the oldest and most established route to Mount Kilimanjaro, commonly known as the "Coca-Cola" route because of its popularity and relative ease compared to other trails. This route features a steady incline and comfortable hut facilities throughout, offering a more refined experience for trekkers.

The Marangu Route spans a total distance of 85 km (50 miles) and generally requires 5-6 days for completion, providing hikers with the opportunity to gradually adjust to the altitude. The path showcases breathtaking vistas of the nearby scenery, featuring vibrant rainforests, high-altitude meadows, and ice formations close to the peak. Although the Marangu Route enjoys widespread popularity, hikers must prepare for challenges such as steep inclines and unpredictable weather while maintaining a high level of fitness.

Mandara (Day 1) and Kibo Huts (Day 4) each have 60 bunk beds, while Horombo Hut has 120 bunk beds. Tour operators usually supply mattresses and pillows for climbers, while trekkers are required to bring their own sleeping bags. Communal dining areas are available in the huts, along with shared public bathrooms. The lower huts feature flushing toilets, a rarity on the other trails! However, as you ascend, this swiftly transitions to long drops.

Marangu ROUTE MAP

The drawback here is that it offers limited chances to adjust to the altitude. Because of this, the Marangu route has the highest failure rate of all the routes up Mount Kilimanjaro. Please carefully consider this factor when selecting the Maranguroute for your Kilimanjaro trek.

The Marangu Route uniquely follows the same path for both the ascent and descent. This indicates that although the trail offers beautiful views, hikers will encounter the same sights on the ascent as they do on the descent. Because vehicles move in both directions, Marangu can occasionally experience significant congestion.

KILIMANJARO HIGHLIGHTS

Most famous

  • Highest free mountain
  • Full of biodiversity
  • Conquering the peak

When To Climb

  • Dry Season December-March & June-October
  • Wet Season Late March-May and November

Essential details

  • Passport& Valid Visa
  • Eligible: 10 – 70 Yrs
  • Challenge: Altitude

MOUNT KILIMANJARO

SUMMERY OF THE MARANGU ROUTE

The Marangu Route usually requires a duration of 5-6 days for completion.

  • The Marangu Route is one of the most popular ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • It is also known as the "Coca-Cola route" due to its relative popularity among tourists
  • The Marangu Route is considered the easiest and most direct route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, with a relatively gradual ascent compared to other routes.
  • Along the way, the route offers accommodation in huts, making it a more comfortable option compared to camping on other routes

The best time to trek through the Marangu Route is during the dry season, which typically falls between the months of June and October. When the weather is most stable, you are less likely to encounter heavy rainfall, making for a more enjoyable trek..

Indeed, the Marangu Route can be quite crowded during peak climbing seasons, especially in the summer months. Because of its gradual ascent and comfortable huts for overnight stays, it is one of the most popular routes up Mount Kilimanjaro.

Many novice hikers attempt this route every year because it offers comfortable hut accommodations, unlike other routes that require you to sleep in mountain tents. Many people attest that this route is less difficult compared to other hikes to the top of Kilimanjaro.

Trekkers often mistakenly believe that a 5-day hike on the Marangu route is easier than a 6-day hike. However, the 5-day options can pose significant challenges due to their limited time for altitude acclimatization. The 6-day option is much easier, but a satisfactory level of fitness is still required

The Marangu Route is the only route on Mt. Kilimanjaro that offers hut accommodation instead of camping. Along the route, there are several huts that provide basic amenities such as beds, dining areas, and bathrooms. During peak climbing seasons, the huts can become crowded, despite being a comfortable option for those who prefer not to camp.

The Marangu Route summit's success rate varies depending on several factors, including the climbers' overall fitness level, the weather conditions during the climb, and the experience of the guides leading the expedition. On average, the success rate for reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is around 50–90%. However, it's crucial to remember that not every climber attempting the trek can guarantee this percentage. The more days spent acclimatizing to the high altitude, the better chance climbers have of reaching the summit successfully. .

The Marangu Route summit's success rate varies depending on several factors, including the climbers' overall fitness level, the weather conditions during the climb, and the experience of the guides leading the expedition. On average, the success rate for reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route is around 50–90%. However, it's crucial to remember that not every climber attempting the trek can guarantee this percentage. The more days spent acclimatizing to the high altitude, the better chance climbers have of reaching the summit successfully. .

  • The exclusive route on Kilimanjaro provides accommodations in sleeping huts rather than tented camps.
  • Due to its gentle inclines and straightforward course, this route is among the simplest to navigate.
  • This route tends to experience higher traffic during the busy season.
  • Because of its immense popularity, the route receives exceptional upkeep.

Quick FAQs about the Marangu Route.

  • Overall distance 85 km (50 miles)
  • Duration:5 or 6 days
  • Success Rates Low (50% for a five-day trek and up to 90% for a six-day trek).
  • Challenge Level: Moderate
  • Crowds: Quite busy
  • Accommodation: Huts

UPCOMING GROUPS

JOIN OUR UPCOMING GROUPS OF TREKKERS

Are you seeking fellow adventurers to accompany you on a Kilimanjaro trek? Your search ends here! Here is a schedule for the upcoming Kilimanjaro treks available for you to join. Select from an array of dates and routes that align with your preferences and schedule.

Dec 31st – 09th Jan, 2025

8 Days Lemosho Route

Jan 2nd – Jan 10th 2025

7 Days Machame Route

Jan 6th – Jan 16th 2025

9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Jan 15th – Jan 24th2026

8 Days Lemosho Route

Jan 31st – Feb 5th 2025

6 Days Marangu Route

Feb 5th – Feb 14th 2025

8 Days Lemosho Route

Feb 15th – Feb 25th 2025

9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Feb 21st – Mar1st2025

7 Days Machame Route

EXPECT THE BELOW WEATHER IN THESE MONTHS

JANUARY

Tanzania experiences a short dry season, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C) on average. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it an ideal time to visit the country's many national parks and wildlife reserves. This is also a calving period in Ndutu, where visitors can witness the incredible sight of wildebeests and zebras giving birth to their young

FEBRUARY

In February, the weather in Tanzania is usually warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people consider this month to be the perfect time to visit the country, as the rainy season has ended and vibrant greenery abounds in the scenery. Additionally, now is an ideal time for Kilimanjaro treks, as the clear skies offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

MARCH

During this month, temperatures are typically quite warm, with highs reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. By the start of March, the sunny season in Tanzania is coming to a close, making way for the arrival of occasional rain showers as the country enters the wet season. It's a wonderful time to enjoy outdoor activities and soak up the sun at the beach.

APRIL

April marks the start of the long rainy season in Tanzania, as temperatures begin to cool down and the country transitions from the hot and dry season. Now is the perfect time for nature lovers to visit, as the scenery transforms into a vibrant and verdant paradise. It is also the best time for bird-watching trips

MAY

May, like April, is considered part of Tanzania's wet season. May begins with a lot of rain, but becomes drier as June approaches. In May, the Great Migration migrates from the southern Serengeti to the west. The lush green vegetation sometimes make it difficult to spot animals, but they also provide excellent photo opportunity.

JUNE

June in Tanzania is typically the start of the dry season, with clear skies and sunny days. With a temperature between 65°F and 80°F, it is the perfect weather for exploring Tanzania's stunning national parks and wildlife reserves. The last weeks of the month are when the migration of wildebeests and zebras begins in the Serengeti, making it an ideal time to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.

JULY

July is considered to be the peak of the dry season in Tanzania, making it an ideal time for tourists to visit. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the crowds, July is a wonderful time to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate in search of greener pastures.

AUGUST

August is one of the best times for tourists to visit Tanzania, as it falls during the dry season. Expect clear skies and warm temperatures, perfect for exploring the country's stunning national parks and wildlife reserves. It's also a wonderful time to visit Zanzibar.

SEPTEMBER

This season is mild and dry, making it ideal for exploring these destinations' gorgeous landscapes, wildlife, and beaches. Late September is the start of shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and reduced prices, making it a wonderful time to visit to escape peak tourist season.

OCTOBER

The weather is generally warm and sunny, with occasional showers that help to cool things down. This time of year is also ideal for wildlife viewing, as the magnificent migration is still in full swing in the Serengeti and the fewer crowds at the beaches of Zanzibar make for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.

NOVEMBER

Tanzania begins its brief rainy season in November. Unlike prolonged wet spells, most accommodations remain open. It is also the best season to see birds in some national parks, especially northern migrants, as the environment turns green. River crossings occur as the Great Migration returns from Kenya. Nevertheless, from November to March, Zanzibar and Mafia have whale sharks to spot

DECEMBER

In December, the short rainy season comes to a close, with occasional brief showers that mostly occur at night. This pattern continues until March. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the influx of migratory birds this month, particularly in Tarangire National Park. At this time, the southern Serengeti's grasslands are bustling with the Great Migration, creating the perfect opportunity for a Serengeti Safari to witness the animals preparing for the calving season.

TIPS ABOUT MOUNT KILIMANJARO

KILIMANJARO ALTITUDE SICKNESS

KILIMANJARO CLIMB COST

KILIMANJARO VISA

KILIMANJARO RESCUE EFFORTS

BEST TIME TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO

KILIMANJARO CLIMBING EQUIPMENT

TANZANIA TRAVEL GUIDE& EXPERIENCE

TRAVEL GUIDE

Discover The Wonders Of Tanzania's Breathtaking Sights

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ENCOUNTERS

Opportunity To Immerse Yourself In The Country's Nature, Vibrant Culture, And Fascinating History.

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WHAT OUR CLINTS SAY

I am not even sure where to start because everything was beyond perfect. Customer service was the best. The entire team took extremely good care of us. We hiked and in one day we saw a lot of chimpanzees in the park. Juma organized it on very short notice and Abbas is very knowledgeable about the park and took us to the best routes. Thanks a lot, guys!

Trek66484591952

I did a 3-days-2-nights trekking with We Cab Tours in Gombe National park. What can I say? Asante sana! The trip was just super perfect! I saw many chimpanzees (it's not guaranteed for sure because as you know how wildlife is sometimes). BUT I did it in the end of March when officially is off-season and I still saw them. The weather was really good too. Juma, the owner and his employees are super nice people. I always felt safe and understood. Moreover everything was on time what is really rare to get - believe me. I would do it with this organization again for sure! And I will do some other trips when I am again in Tanzania

Lena B

Juma, thank you for your hospitality and flexibility during our travel to Zanzibar. I had an amazing and beautiful experience because of your team. Your team arrived early at the RUI to pack our luggage in the van and patiently waited until we were ready to leave the hotel as were saying goodbye to our friends we met on the trip. I appreciate the time you took on our last day of the visit in Stone town prior to leaving for the airport. You helped us negotiate our fabrics and clothing so that we received the best price

Dawn H

Juma, Makame, Brendah and the We Cab family were the absolute best! They treated us like family, they were on time for every day we booked. They want out of their way to provide the best experience. When we booked the "scary ferry" ride to Dar es Salem, we were treated to a complimentary upgrade. We missed the stop in Nairobi where we were supposed to give donations to an orphanage and they made sure to find a reputable one in Zanzibar, and had one of their guides Brendah, translate on our behalf. I truly felt more like family than a client. I will definitely return to Zanzibar and use We Cab for all my transportation and tour needs.

Dr. Kim J
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