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7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route

OVERVIEW

The 7-day Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. It’s known for its quiet wilderness, gradual ascent, and breathtaking views across both Tanzania and Kenya. This route is less crowded, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a more private, remote experience. The path takes you through untouched rainforest, open moorlands, and alpine desert before reaching the icy summit of Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. The descent follows the Marangu Route, allowing you to enjoy different scenery on the way down. With excellent acclimatization, diverse landscapes, and fewer climbers, the Rongai Route offers a unique perspective of Africa’s highest mountain — a journey of calm, beauty, and personal triumph.

Detailed Itinerary

plane

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our representative meets you and transfers you to your lodge in Moshi. The day is reserved for rest and preparation. Your lead guide will meet you for a full briefing, equipment check, and introduction to the crew. Spend the evening relaxing, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, and preparing for the climb ahead. Dinner and overnight in Moshi.

Accommodation Mara Mbugani Tented Camp
Meal Plan Dinner
trek

Day 2: Moshi – Rongai Gate to Simba Camp (2,650 m)

After breakfast, drive through the countryside to the Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border. The climb begins on a narrow path through maize and pine fields before entering the lush rainforest. The trail offers quiet beauty and occasional wildlife sightings. Reach Simba Camp by afternoon, where you’ll enjoy dinner and overnight with views of Kenya’s plains below.

Trek time: 4–5 hours

Accommodation Simba Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)

After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily through moorland with wide views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Vegetation becomes sparse, giving way to open alpine terrain. Arrive at Second Cave Camp for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring or relaxing. The air is cooler, and the mountain feels closer.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation Second Cave Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
trek

Day 4: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m)

Continue trekking across moorland toward the jagged spires of Mawenzi. The scenery is striking — rugged ridges, distant glaciers, and sweeping valleys. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp by early afternoon for lunch and rest. The camp is set in a sheltered valley surrounded by giant groundsels and lobelias. Dinner and overnight at Kikelewa.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation Kikelewa Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
trek

Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)

A short but steep climb brings you above the vegetation zone, into high alpine terrain. The views back over the plains are extraordinary. Arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the towering Mawenzi peak — one of the most beautiful camps on Kilimanjaro. The afternoon is free for rest or a short acclimatization walk. Dinner and overnight at the camp.

Trek time: 3–4 hours

Accommodation Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
trek

Day 6: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Cross the high-altitude desert known as the “Saddle,” which connects Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The path is long but gradual, and the open terrain provides stunning views in every direction. Arrive at Kibo Hut by early afternoon for an early dinner and rest before your summit attempt. Your guides will brief you for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation Kibo Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
trek

Day 7: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Rise around midnight for your summit push under a sky filled with stars. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) is steep and demanding, but the reward is beyond words. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, arriving at sunrise to breathtaking views over the glaciers and the plains below. After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Kibo Hut for rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.

Trek time: 10–12 hours

Accommodation Horombo Hut Camp
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
trek

Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

After breakfast, descend through the moorland and lush rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate and say farewell to your mountain crew. Your driver will transfer you to Moshi for a hot shower, relaxation, and a well-earned dinner.

Trek time: 5–6 hours

Accommodation Moshi Hotel
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch

Included (typical safari)

  • Airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport

  • Two nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before and after the climb)

  • Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate

  • Park entrance fees and camping fees

  • Rescue fees and government taxes

  • Professional mountain guides, assistant guides, and experienced porters

  • Full board meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

  • Treated drinking water throughout the climb

  • Quality mountain tents, sleeping mats, and dining equipment

  • Oxygen cylinder and first aid kit for emergencies

  • Fair wages and proper care for the mountain crew

Not included

  • International flights and travel insurance

  • Tanzania entry visa

  • Personal climbing gear such as sleeping bag, boots, and clothing

  • Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary

  • Tips for guides, porters, and cook (customary but not included)

  • Extra night at the hotel before or after the climb if needed

  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, or souvenirs

Book This Tour

    BOOKING PROCESS & PAYMENT

    Inquiry

    Tell us your travel dates, interests, group size and budget.

    Proposal

    We send a tailor-made itinerary and quote.

    Confirmation

    30% deposit (or as agreed) secures bookings and permits; balance due before travel.

    Final details

    We provide a detailed travel pack with meeting points, packing list and permit info.

    HEALTH, SAFETY & PRACTICALS

    vaccine

    Vaccinations

    Yellow fever certificate may be required for some routes/entries; check up-to-date requirements.

    GUARD

    Malaria

    Malaria prophylaxis recommended in many areas — consult your doctor.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance

    Strongly advised for medical, evacuation and trip cancellation.

    654090

    Kilimanjaro

    Good fitness and proper acclimatization required. We provide trained guides and support crew.

    RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL & CONSERVATION

    • We follow strict wildlife viewing distances and codes of conduct.
    • We work with trusted local suppliers and invest in community projects where possible.
    • We minimize waste, avoid single-use plastics where practical and support park conservation initiatives.

    PACKING LIST

    • Lightweight breathable clothing, warm layer for early mornings
    • Sturdy walking shoes or boots, hat, sunglasses
    • Rain jacket (seasonal), sunscreen, insect repellent
    • For Kilimanjaro: thermal layers, down jacket, gloves, headlamp, trekking poles
    • Valid passport, copies, travel insurance, necessary permits/visas

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