The Marangu Route, often referred to as the "Coca-Cola route," holds the distinction of being the oldest and one of the most popular paths up Mount Kilimanjaro. This route traces the steps of the first successful summit by Hans Meyer in 1889. Spanning across Kilimanjaro National Park, the Marangu Route takes climbers through all of the mountain's climatic zones, from lush tropical forests to the harsh alpine desert. One of its unique features is the availability of dormitory-style huts for overnight stays, making it a comfortable option for climbers.
If you're planning to climb Kilimanjaro during the rainy season, between mid-March to late May or late October to late December, the Marangu Route is an excellent choice. The huts provide shelter from the rain, keeping you dry and cozy. The route offers both 5- and 6-day variations, with the 6-day option being a gentler ascent, allowing more time for acclimatization and reducing the difficulty of the climb.