The Marangu, or “Coca-Cola,” path on Kilimanjaro is understandably popular with climbers. It is exceptional in that it offers more comfort thanks to its permanent cottages. The Coca-Cola Route also offers stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s Mawenzi and Kibo summits. The 6-day and 5-day treks on the Marangu Route are available; for seasoned trekkers, the latter is recommended.

If this is going to be your first climb, the 5-day Marangu Route schedule is recommended due to its longer acclimatization period. For those who want to climb Kilimanjaro on Marangu, they can anticipate a trip that spans 64 kilometers (40 miles) in pleasant weather, yielding a 92% success rate for the longer program.

Day 1 Arusha – Kilimanjaro National Park to Mandara Hut

After breakfast and an orientation, travel (approximately an hour) to the Kilimanjaro national park gate, register, and start the climb. To reach the Mandara encampment, through the rainforest.

It is a good idea to take a side excursion to Maundi Crater to visit the area, which includes Northern Tanzania and Kenya. Look for Colobus monkeys, soaring Eucalyptus trees, and other wildlife in the rainforest.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 – Hike Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut

The Horombo campsite is reached by leaving the glades of the rain forest and ascending a trail on the open moorlands. The views of the Mawenzi and Kibo’s top are breathtaking. Look for enormous grounsels and lobelias. You can start to experience the effects of the altitude.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Hike Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut

As we continue to climb, we cross the last watering hole and continue onto the Kilimanjaro saddle, where the vegetation starts out as upper health land before vanishing into the “moonscape.” Dinner, a nap, and summit preparations.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Hike Kibo Hut to Summit, and down to Horombo Hut

Beginning very early in the morning, we will ascend to Gilman’s point, which is on the crater rim, and then continue on to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. Every turn reveals breathtaking views. Take a photo of yourself at the summit to show your loved ones. From there, we descend to Kibo, where we have lunch and take a break before moving on to the Horombo camp.

This climb starts out in the dark, necessitating the use of headlamps or flashlights. You will need all of your warm garments because it will be really cold until you start descending. With numerous switchbacks, this is by far the hardest part of the hike. You’ll get there by moving gently, “pole pole,” and with a positive outlook!

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Hike Horombo Hut to Mandara Hut

We descend via Moorland to the Mandara Hut after breakfast. Continue to descend down a verdant woodland route to the Marangu National Park gate. It could be muddy and wet at lower elevations. Trekking poles and gaiters will be useful.

Most likely, there will be enough to wear: shorts and t-shirts (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
At the Marangu gate, a car will be ready to take you back to your Moshi accommodation (approximately a one-hour journey).

Dinner