Marangu Route Day Hike (Coca-Cola Route) – Full Details

Price: Starting From $160

Overview

The Marangu Route is affectionately known as the "Coca-Cola Route" due to its relative ease compared to other Kilimanjaro routes. It is the only route on the mountain that offers hut accommodations, making it a comfortable option for hikers. While typically used for full summit attempts, the Marangu Route offers a fantastic day hike experience for those looking to explore the beauty of Kilimanjaro without committing to a multi-day trek.

This day hike takes you through lush rainforests, giving you a taste of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystem. The trail leads to the Mandara Huts, situated at 2,720 meters (8,923 feet) above sea level, offering spectacular views of the mountain and its surroundings.

Itinerary

• Pick-up and Departure:
  • Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Moshi or Arusha (depending on your location).
  • Transfer to the Marangu Gate (1,860 meters), the starting point of the hike. After registration with the park authorities, your adventure begins.
• Hiking Through the Rainforest:

  The hike starts with a gentle incline, taking you through dense, misty rainforests. The Marangu Route is renowned for its scenic forest landscapes, where you may encounter playful blue monkeys and colobus monkeys swinging through the trees. The trail is well-established and easy to follow, making it accessible for hikers of all experience levels.

  Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna, including the towering trees, vibrant flowers, and wildlife that call the rainforest home.

• Arrival at Mandara Huts:

  After about 3-4 hours of hiking (8 km), you will reach the Mandara Huts. These mountain huts are often used by trekkers on their first night when attempting to summit Kilimanjaro. You’ll have a chance to rest, take in the stunning surroundings, and enjoy a packed lunch.

  From Mandara Huts, you can take a short walk to the Maundi Crater, a volcanic depression offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and, on clear days, a glimpse of nearby Kenya and Kilimanjaro’s towering peaks.

• Return Descent:

  After exploring the Mandara area and taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll begin your descent back to the Marangu Gate. The return trip is typically faster, taking about 2-3 hours.

  Once at the gate, your driver will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel, marking the end of your adventure.

Highlights

• Scenic Vistas and Lush Rainforests: The Marangu Route offers one of the most scenic and easy-going treks through Kilimanjaro’s rainforest zone, filled with vibrant wildlife and diverse plant species.
• Mandara Huts: At 2,720 meters, the Mandara Huts offer a picturesque resting spot where you can soak in the natural beauty of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes.
• Maundi Crater: Optional short hike to this crater, offering panoramic views of the surroundings and Kilimanjaro.

Included

• Park entry fees
• Professional guide
• Packed lunch and drinking water
• Transportation to and from your hotel (Moshi or Arusha)
• All necessary hiking permits

Excluded

• Tips for your guide
• Personal hiking gear (can be rented if needed)

What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Waterproof jacket (in case of rain)
• Day pack with essentials (sunscreen, water bottle, snacks)
• Camera for capturing the stunning views

Difficulty Level

Moderate: The Marangu Day Hike is suitable for hikers of all skill levels, making it an excellent option for beginners or families.

This adventure offers a perfect way to experience the magic of Kilimanjaro in a single day, providing memories that will last a lifetime!