Rongai Route – 7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb

Safari Overview

The Rongai Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, and offers a remote and peaceful trekking experience. This 7-day Kilimanjaro trek is known for its gradual slope, making it ideal for first-time climbers and those who prefer a quieter path. It also offers unique views and a high chance of spotting wildlife in the lower forest. The descent is via the scenic Marangu Route, creating a full-circle Kilimanjaro experience.

Itinerary

Day 1: Nalemoru Gate – Simba Camp

– Transfer from Moshi/Arusha to Rongai Gate (2,020m)
– Trek through lush rainforest to Simba Camp (2,625m)
– Watch for monkeys and forest wildlife
– Hike duration: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Simba Camp

Day 2: Simba – Second Cave Camp

– Climb through moorland to reach Second Cave (3,450m)
– Enjoy views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields
– Slow, steady ascent aids acclimatization
– Hike duration: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Second Cave Camp

Day 3: Second Cave – Kikelewa Camp

– Continue ascending through open alpine landscape
– Arrive at Kikelewa Camp (3,630m), nestled in a sheltered valley
– Afternoon acclimatization and rest
– Hike duration: 3–4 hours
Overnight: Kikelewa Camp

Day 4: Kikelewa – Mawenzi Tarn Camp

– Steep ascent up grassy slopes
– Reach Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m), located beneath the Mawenzi peak
– Incredible mountain scenery
– Hike duration: 3–5 hours
Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut

– Cross the “saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo
– Arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700m), base camp for summit night
– Early dinner and rest before midnight climb
– Hike duration: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Kibo Hut

Day 6: Summit Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

– Midnight wake-up for summit attempt
– Ascend to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) via Gilman’s Point
– Celebrate your achievement at Africa’s highest point
– Descend back to Kibo, then continue to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
– Hike duration: 12–14 hours
Overnight: Horombo Hut

Day 7: Horombo – Marangu Gate – Transfer to Moshi/Arusha

– Final descent through the rainforest
– Return to Marangu Gate (1,860m), collect summit certificates
– Drive back to hotel for celebration and rest
– Hike duration: 5–6 hours
End of trek