7 Days Rongai route

7 Days

Tour Overview

on an awe-inspiring 8-day trekking expedition to conquer the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route. With its gradual ascent and diverse landscapes, this route offers a rewarding journey to the “Roof of Africa.” From lush forests to barren alpine deserts, experience the beauty of Tanzania’s highest peak under the guidance of expert local guides.

Trip Highlights:

  1. Rongai Start Point to Simba Camp: Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Moshi to the Rongai starting point. Trek through picturesque countryside and montane forests, setting up camp at Simba Camp amidst the lush greenery.
  2. Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp: Traverse through moorlands, passing by the intriguing Caves and enjoying panoramic views along the way. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp, where a stunning landscape awaits with a flowing stream beneath the cave.
  3. Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn Camp: Challenge yourself with a hike up the slopes, rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the untouched wilderness. Arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled below the spires of Mawenzi, and take time to acclimatize amidst the barren terrain.
  4. Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut: Ascend towards Kibo Hut, navigating through the alpine desert landscape. Prepare for the midnight climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, with a restful evening at Kibo Hut.
  5. Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut: Embark on the ultimate ascent to Uhuru Peak, passing through Hans Meyer Cave and Gillman’s Point before reaching the summit. Experience the awe-inspiring views before descending to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route, creating unforgettable memories and celebrating your achievement with a certificate presentation at Marangu Gate before returning to Moshi for a relaxing conclusion to your adventure.

Itinerary

Day 1 :
Arrival

On the day of your trip a tour guide will greet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Drive you to your hotel, in Moshi.

We start our journey, from Moshi town to Marangu park gate for registration. After that we head to village Naro Moru, which's 68 kilometers away and takes about 3 hours to reach due to the rough road conditions arriving at the Rongai starting point . Our trek begins from the Nale Moru village. The narrow path weaves through maize fields before leading into a forest then gradually ascending through the forest. The trail isn't steep; it's more of a walk through countryside. We set up camp for the night, at Simba Camp .
time taken: 4 – 5 hours
Distance:8 km
Habitat: Forest (Montane)

We set out on a hike, from camp to Kibo. Our journey takes us to Caves where we stop for lunch after covering a distance of 5 km. Following our meal we press on with our trek until we finally reach Kikelewa Camp in the afternoon. At this spot you'll be treated to breathtaking views that include a stream flowing beneath the cave.
time taken :5-6 hours
Distance:10 km
Habitat: Moorlands

The hike, up the slopes is a challenging one rewarding you with stunning views of the untouched wilderness. As you approach the camp at Mawenzi Tarn, nestled below the spires of Mawenzi, the landscape transitions from lush vegetation, to a more barren terrain. We take our time in the afternoon to adjust to the altitude and wander around this area.
time taken :3-4hours
Distance:5km
Habitat: Moorlands

After having our breakfast we move towards the west. Keep climbing up on the side of Kibo. We then traverse the area, between Mawenzi and Kibo requiring 4 to 5 hours to arrive at Kibo Hut. The rest of the day is dedicated to relaxing and getting ready, for the climb scheduled to start at midnight. We stay overnight at Kibo Hut.
time taken: 5 – 6 hours
Distance:9 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

Get ready, for a day of walking . We kick off at around 11;00 PM making our way up through terrain until we reach Hans Meyer Cave at 5150m, where we can take a break. The climb to Gillmans Point at 5681m involves a lot of mental exertion with the steep scree slopes. Typically the path to Uhuru Peak at 5895m is covered in snow. If the weather allows, take in the summit views before embarking on a three hour descent to Kibo Hut. After a rest continue your journey to Horombo Hut which takes around three hours for an overnight stay. The return trip, to Horombo Hut may seem quicker than expected. Wrap up your day with a dinner and some deserved sleep.
time taken: 7 to 8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak, 6 to 8 hours to descend to Horombo
Distance:20 km
Habitat: Stone scree / ice-cap summit

After we finish breakfast we trek downhill for 6 hours until we reach the Mandara hut and then proceed to the Marangu gate. At the gate climbers who have successfully reached the summit are awarded their certificates. Those who made it to Gillmans Point (5685m) receive certificates while those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) are presented with gold certificates. On we head back, to Moshi for a deserved hot shower and celebration.
time taken: 6 hours
Distance:19 km
Habitat: Moorland & Montane Forest

Day 8 :
Departure

After finishing the trek you have the rest of the day to relax before your flight. If your flight isn't, until later you might want to take a stroll in Moshi town and check out some souvenir shops before making your way, to the airport.

Included and Excluded

Cost Includes

  • All meals during the climb
  • Professional mountain guides and support staff
  • Porter services for carrying luggage and equipment
  • Park fees and rescue fees
  • Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport
  • Certificate of achievement upon successful summit

Cost Excludes

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal equipment, sleeping bags and clothing
  • Gratuities for guides, porters, and staff
  • Additional meals, snacks, and drinks not provided during the climb
  • Any costs associated with an early descent or evacuation

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

7 Days Rongai route