ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Rongai Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the remote northern side, near the Kenyan border. Known for its solitude and scenic wilderness, this route offers a gentle and gradual ascent, enhancing acclimatization and increasing summit success rates. Trekkers will experience diverse habitats from lush rainforest and open moorland to high alpine desert and glacier fields culminating at the majestic Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Descent is made via the Marangu Route, allowing a circular journey on the mountain.
FULL ITINERARY
DAY 0: ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA – TRANSFER TO ARUSHA
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha, a bustling town nestled at the base of Mount Meru. Here you’ll settle in, attend a detailed trek briefing, complete gear checks, and meet the rest of your crew.
- Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge in Arusha
- Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)
Altitude: ~1,400 m / 4,593 ft
DAY 1: ARUSHA – RONGAI GATE – SIMBA CAMP
After an early breakfast, drive through the countryside to the Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border. The hike begins with a gentle ascent through cultivated fields and montane forest. Watch for wildlife such as colobus monkeys along the way. You’ll reach Simba Camp near the First Cave by late afternoon.
- Elevation: 2000 m / 6560 ft → 2635 m / 8645 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP – SECOND CAVE – KIKELEWA CAMP
The trail ascends steadily through open moorland, revealing incredible views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding wilderness. After a lunch break at Second Cave, continue toward the beautiful Kikelewa Camp, set in a sheltered valley surrounded by giant groundsels and scenic ridges.
- Elevation: 2635 m / 8645 ft → 3630 m / 11,910 ft
- Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
DAY 3: KIKELEWA CAMP – MAWENZI TARN CAMP
Today’s trek is shorter but steeper as you climb to Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most stunning campsites on Kilimanjaro. Located in a high cirque beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak, this site offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to rest and acclimate.
- Elevation: 3630 m / 11,910 ft → 4310 m / 14,140 ft
- Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Moorland
DAY 4: MAWENZI TARN – OUTWARD RIDGE – KIBO HUT
Cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, a barren desert-like expanse at high altitude. The environment is stark and silent. You’ll reach Kibo Hut, where you’ll rest and prepare for the early morning summit attempt. Early dinner and early bed.
- Elevation: 4310 m / 14,140 ft → 4700 m / 15,420 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 5: KIBO HUT – UHURU PEAK – HOROMBO HUT
Summit Day! Begin your midnight ascent under the stars. Pass Gilman’s Point (5685 m) and continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your victory before descending to Kibo for rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.
- Elevation: 4700 m / 15,420 ft → 5895 m / 19,341 ft (Uhuru), then down to 3720 m / 12,200 ft
- Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
- Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
DAY 6: HOROMBO HUT – MARANGU GATE – RETURN TO ARUSHA
Enjoy your final descent through heathland and rainforest. At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your mountain crew. A private vehicle will transfer you back to Arusha for a hot shower and celebratory dinner.
- Elevation: 3720 m / 12,200 ft → 1860 m / 6100 ft
- Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
- Habitat: Heath and Rainforest
PACKAGE
Package Inclusions
Travel Handbook
Included in Package
Airport Pick up and drop off
Pre and Post Trek Hotel accommodation
Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees, and taxes
Q-4 season mountain tents
Transportation to and from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
3 meals per day whilst on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Excluded in Package
International flights
Traveler’s insurance
VISA
Drinks outside safari
Tipping (we recommend from $10 per person per day)