The Marangu Route: The “Coca-Cola” Route
The Marangu route, known as the “Coca-Cola” route, is Kilimanjaro’s oldest and most well-established route. This is the only route that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations instead of camping. There are 60 bunk beds at both Mandara and Kibo Huts and 120 bunk beds at Horombo Hut. Guests are supplied with mattresses and pillows, but sleeping bags are still required. The huts feature communal dining halls and basic washrooms, ranging from flushing toilets and running water at the lower huts to long-drop toilets and buckets of water at Kibo Hut.
Ease of Ascent and Challenges of Acclimatization
Many favor Marangu because, given its gradual slope and direct path, it is considered the most straightforward path on the mountain. However, the short time frame of the route makes altitude acclimatization reasonably tricky. As a result, hikers may face altitude-related issues despite the easier incline.
Scenic Views and Crowds
The route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the southeast. Unfortunately, Marangu is less scenic than the other routes because the ascent and descent follow the same path. For this reason, it is also the most crowded route, with a higher number of climbers compared to other routes on the mountain.
