The Marangu Route, often called the “Coca-Cola Route,” is one of the most popular routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Known for being relatively straightforward and the only route with hut accommodations, it offers a more comfortable trekking experience.
Elevation: 6,046 ft to 8,858 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
After completing the necessary formalities at Marangu Gate, we begin our trek. The trail ascends through a lush tropical rainforest, and we may spot playful blue monkeys along the way. As we continue, the trail opens up to reveal beautiful hillsides until we reach Mandara Hut, where we will spend the night.
Elevation: 8,858 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Heath
On our second day, we start with a steep climb through the forest before emerging into the high moorlands. If the weather is clear, we’ll enjoy our first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks, two of the three volcanic summits of Kilimanjaro. We continue our ascent to Horombo Hut, where we’ll stay overnight.
Elevation: 12,205 ft to 14,160 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Heath
This day is dedicated to acclimatization. We hike towards Mawenzi Hut, gaining elevation to help our bodies adjust to the thin air. The route offers stunning views of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. After reaching Mawenzi Hut, we return to Horombo Hut to rest.
Elevation: 12,205 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today, we make a gradual ascent, crossing the barren lunar landscape of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. The landscape here is stark and desert-like. We reach Kibo Hut, located at the base of the Kibo crater wall. After arriving, we rest, enjoy an early dinner, and prepare for the summit push.
Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
Distance: 22 km
Hiking Time: 10-13 hours
Habitat: Arctic
We begin the final ascent in the middle of the night, heading toward Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. The trail to Gilman’s Point is steep, and the climb is slow and steady. From Gilman’s Point, we traverse the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak. After enjoying the breathtaking views and taking photos, we descend back to Horombo Hut, retracing our steps.
Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
On our final day, we begin the long descent, mostly downhill, back through the rainforest. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, we complete the necessary check-out procedures and receive our summit certificates. Afterward, we board a vehicle for our transfer back to a hotel in Moshi, where we can celebrate our achievement and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Fullmoon Safaris is a locally owned tour operator based in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. They’re registered and managing their own packages, including safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Tarangire) and Kilimanjaro treks, with a local foundation receiving 10% of income.
Founded by Emmanuel Teshaa, the company has been operating since around 2011 with a team of 26–50 employees TanzaPages+1.
A Traveller (Thibaut & Florie) described a 6‑day climb via Machame route as “unbelievable and unforgettable,” praising the guides, cook and cheerful porters. They felt safe and well-supported at all times Tripadvisor.
Another reviewer (Faith Makaza Maipisi, Dec 2022) recounted a 7‑day Lemosho route with Fullmoon Safaris: “guides gave us ample time… the cooks were amazing… hot ginger water… celebration cake… brilliant stuff”—highlighting top-tier service and care Tripadvisor+1.
Returning client Sid (July 2023) booked a 3‑day safari and a coffee/waterfalls day trip with Emmanuel, and praised the accommodation, guide knowledge, and overall seamless experience. “You can be 100% confident…” he wrote Tripadvisor.
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