7-Day Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climbing

Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you will meet your guides and fellow climbers for a detailed briefing and preparation for the adventure ahead. The evening is free for you to relax and get a good night’s rest before the climb begins.

Day 1: Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp

The first day of the trek starts with a drive from Moshi to Nalemuru Gate, the starting point of the Rongai route. After completing registration, the hike begins through lush farmlands and pine forests. The trail ascends gently, offering beautiful views of the Kenyan plains. You will arrive at Simba Camp, located at an altitude of 2,671 meters (8,760 feet), where you will spend the night.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

On the second day, you will trek from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp. The trail continues through heather and moorland, providing stunning panoramic views. The hike is relatively short, allowing ample time for acclimatization. Second Cave Camp, situated at 3,450 meters (11,319 feet), offers an excellent spot to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Day 3: Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Day three takes you from Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend through the moorland and into the alpine desert zone. You will pass beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi before reaching Kikelewa Camp at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). The camp is nestled in a sheltered valley, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

The fourth day involves a challenging but rewarding trek from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp. The trail climbs steeply through scree slopes and barren landscapes, offering impressive views of Mawenzi’s towering spires. Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located at 4,330 meters (14,206 feet), is set beside a picturesque tarn (mountain lake) in the shadow of Mawenzi Peak.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

On day five, you will trek from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut. The trail crosses the lunar-like desert of the "Saddle," which connects Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This barren landscape offers a stark contrast to the lush vegetation of the lower slopes. Kibo Hut, situated at 4,720 meters (15,486 feet), serves as the base camp for your summit attempt. You will have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit push.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Summit and Back to Horombo Hut Camp

Summit day begins around midnight. You will ascend through the starlit night, aiming to reach Gilman’s Point at sunrise. From there, you continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). After celebrating your achievement, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut Camp at 3,720 meters (12,205 feet). This long and challenging day will be the most rewarding of your journey.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and Departure

The final day involves a descent from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate. The trail passes through lush rainforest, offering a pleasant and scenic conclusion to your trek. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you will receive your summit certificates and bid farewell to your guides and porters. A vehicle will then transfer you back to Moshi, where you can relax and celebrate your successful climb.

Park fee

Rescue fee

Mountain Guide

Cook

Porters

Accommodations during hike

Delicious meals

Accommodations in Moshi before and after safari

Airport Pick-up and Drop-off

Flights (International and Domestic)

Visa

Health Insurance

Tips