Fitness level

High
Group Size

1-100
Guiding method

Mountain Tour Guide
Maximum Altitude

5,895 m (19,341 ft) above sea level

The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter experience, with a high success rate due to its gradual ascent profile. This 7-day itinerary combines stunning scenery, diverse ecological zones, and opportunities for proper acclimatization.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Arusha

Altitude: 4,590 ft (1,400 m)

Activities: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to Arusha, and briefing with your guide for the trek preparation.

Accommodation: NgareSero Lodge or Similar

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 02 :

Nalemoru Gate to Simba Camp

Altitude: 6,398 ft (1,950 m) to 8,530 ft (2,600 m)

Distance: 5 miles (8 km)

Time: 3-4 hours

Terrain: Forest zone
Begin your trek with a gentle climb through farmlands and lush forest, rich with wildlife. Reach Simba Camp, nestled on the edge of the moorland zone.

Accommodation: Camping at Simba Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03 :

Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Altitude: 8,530 ft (2,600 m) to 11,300 ft (3,450 m)

Distance: 5.7 miles (9.2 km)

Time: 6-8 hours

Terrain: Moorland
Hike through open moorlands with stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. Stop at Second Cave for the night.

Accommodation: Camping at Second Cave Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04 :

Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Altitude: 11,300 ft (3,450 m) to 11,811 ft (3,600 m)

Distance: 5 miles (8 km)

Time: 4-6 hours

Terrain: Moorland transitioning to alpine desert
The trail continues across the moorland, with increasing isolation and scenic landscapes. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp, surrounded by giant lobelias and unique flora.

Accommodation: Camping at Kikelewa Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05 :

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Altitude: 11,811 ft (3,600 m) to 14,206 ft (4,330 m)

Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km)

Time: 3-5 hours

Terrain: Alpine desert
Ascend steadily to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, set beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak. This is a short but steep climb, offering time to acclimatize.

Accommodation: Camping at Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 06 :

Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Altitude: 14,206 ft (4,330 m) to 15,466 ft (4,720 m)

Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km)

Time: 4-6 hours

Terrain: Alpine desert
Cross the lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut, where you will rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.

Accommodation: Camping at Kibo Hut

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07 :

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Mweka Camp

Altitude: 15,466 ft (4,720 m) to 19,341 ft (5,895 m) to 10,065 ft (3,070 m)

Distance: 4 miles (ascent) + 7 miles (descent)

Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 4-6 hours descent

Terrain: Arctic zone, descending to forest zone
Begin your summit attempt around midnight. Reach Gillman’s Point (18,652 ft/5,685 m) for the breathtaking sunrise before heading to Uhuru Peak. Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and continue to Mweka Camp.

Accommodation: Camping at Mweka Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 08 :

Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Altitude: 10,065 ft (3,070 m) to 5,380 ft (1,640 m)

Distance: 6 miles (10 km)

Time: 3-4 hours

Terrain: Forest zone
Enjoy your final descent through the lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, where you will receive a summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha for rest and celebration.

Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 09 :

Departure

Activities: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or onward to a safari or Zanzibar adventure.

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