The Marangu route is easily the most popular way of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. Not only is Marangu the least expensive option, it is also shorter as it makes it possible to climb to the summit sooner.
The Marangu route is a classic trek to the top of Kilimanjaro. However, it has the least scenic variety of all routes (ascent and descent are done on the same path) and is the most crowded for that reason. It is the only route which offers sleeping huts in dormitory style accommodations. There are 60 bunk beds each at Mandara and Kibo Huts, and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut.
Many favor the Marangu route because it is considered to be the easiest path on the mountain, given its gradual slope and direct path. Known as the "Coca-Cola" route, it approaches Kilimanjaro from the southeast. It is the oldest, most well-established route.
The minimum days required for this route is five, although the probability of successfully reaching the top in that time period is quite low. Spending an extra acclimatization day on the mountain is highly recommended.
This route is easy, gradual ascent and the most popular route for climbing Mt Kilimanjaro. You will be sleeping in shared wooden huts where toilets, dining and washing rooms (cold shower) are available. This route is recommended proper acclimatization. The Marangu Route is also known as the "Tourist Route" or "Coca Cola Route".
And just about every tour operator will tell you:
The Marangu route is the easiest, cheapest and by far the most popular. Unfortunately, only one of these statements is true: climbing Kilimanjaro on the Marangu route is the cheapest option. You will need a sleeping bag, warm clothes and walking poles.
At Horombo we will take an extra day for acclimatization. During this day you will be able to take various walks so it is not at all a waste of a day. Rather, it is a great day and also one that will give you a much higher chance of reaching Kilimanjaro's top, as you will be properly acclimatized.
For a detailed itinerary, we kindly ask you to see the itinerary tab.
The 6-Day Machame route package approaches Kilimanjaro through forest and moorland from the south-west and joins the Shira route before traversing beneath the southern icefields of Kibo.
The rainforest is extremely beautiful and there is a tangible sense of ‘wilderness’ once the higher elevations are reached. The views of Mt. Meru floating on the clouds are simply unforgettable, and we make our final ascent to the summit by the stunning Barafu route. The six -day itinerary allows time to enjoy the trek, acclimatise, and also gives plenty of time to enjoy the magnificent scenery.
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The Machame Kilimanjaro route is a Zigzag route with a trail going up and down. We will hike high and to the extent possible try to sleep low as it is good for acclimatization.
On the Machame route a challenging point is the Baranco wall. We will take it slow and steady making sure that we pass it in a safe manner. While reaching the Mt. Kilimanjaro summit is a highlight in fact the entire Machame route is excellent.
On the way down from Mt. Kilimanjaro we will descend via the Mweka route. As for accommodation we will be making use of camping where also toilet facilities will be available.
Comparing the Machame route with the other Kili-routes then it is simply a longer and some times steeper. It covers more ground and involves more ups and downs. It wears you out more, takes more energy, but does not require more skill. But, a key advantage is that it offers much better acclimatization - increasing your chance of reaching the summit.
Some people are terribly worried about climbing the Barranco Wall. Don't worry. It's not a cliff face and it's not a climb. It's mostly a very steep path that requires you to use your hands every now and then.
For a detailed itinerary kindly see the itinerary tab. We look forward to providing you with an excellent climb on Africa's highest free standing mountain in the world.
Our Kilimanjaro climb happened on 1st January, 2025 was an experience of a lifetime. The guides including Gabriel were highly professional and ensured we were comfortable every step of the way. The porters and cooks were fantastic, making sure we had delicious meals and enough rest. Their expertise made the summit possible! 100% recommend!
Trekking and HikingMountains
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Hut, Sleeping Hut
Age Range
10-65 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro Nation
Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak
I always dreamed of conquering Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, and the team has been a great partner in fulfilling this dream. I chose the Machame Route because it's a little more challenging but offers a lot of beautiful scenery. The sunsets of Shira and walking through the mist of the Barranco Wall - all in one word, it was a wonderful experience. Guides and porters were always on hand; they handled everything from the pitch of the tent to the cooking of the food perfectly. I'm grateful to this team.
The Marangu route is perhaps the easiest and most comfortable route to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak. We will pick you up from your accommodation in Arusha and drive you to Marangu Gate. From there you follow the trail that takes you to the top of the mountain via Mandara, Horombo and Kibo huts.
The route is well-developed and the climb is constant and of moderate intensity. The only portion that is quite demanding is the approach to the summit. However, you also have the option of adding a day for acclimatization at an additional amount if you want to. The advantage of this route is that kiosks selling mineral water bottles, soft drinks, chocolates and beers are available in camp sites throughout the climb.
For more details, please scroll down to the itinerary section.