Overview of the Marangu Route
The Marangu route, often called the 'Coca-Cola' route, is Kilimanjaro’s original trail. It earned its nickname due to its convenience, as there are a few spots along the way where climbers can buy a refreshing drink. The route ascends Kilimanjaro's southeastern slope, taking trekkers through the distinct vegetation zones of rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the arctic summit.
Uniquely, the Marangu route is the only one where climbers stay in huts rather than camping. It is also the only route that requires retracing your steps during the descent, unlike the others, which descend along a different path after summiting.
Pros and Cons of the Marangu Route
Historically the most popular route on Kilimanjaro, the Marangu is now rivaled by the Machame and Lemosho routes. It remains a preferred choice for climbers on a tight budget, as it requires less equipment and fewer porters due to the hut accommodations, which include mattresses. This affordability makes it a common option for budget-friendly Kilimanjaro operators that don’t offer camping gear.
The Marangu route is relatively short, taking only five or six days to complete. While this reduces costs, it also limits acclimatisation time, making it less suitable for those prone to altitude sickness.
A highlight of the Marangu route is that it bypasses the Barranco Wall, a steep and challenging section that can make some climbers uneasy. However, its acclimatisation profile is less favorable compared to other routes, leading to a lower summit success rate, which can make it less cost-effective overall.
While the Saddle, the stretch of land between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks, provides stunning views, and the rainforest and moorland sections are scenic, the Marangu route is often considered the least picturesque overall. This is primarily because the ascent and descent follow the same trail, limiting the variety of views—a feature we believe detracts from the overall experience. Other routes offer descending paths that showcase different aspects of the mountain’s beauty.
