Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Moshi to Rongai Gate | Simba Camp⌄

   Altitude: 1,950 meters (6,398 feet) – 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) Hiking distance: 8 km Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours After breakfast at the hotel, you'll set off on a 2 to 3-hour drive toward the Rongai Gate, passing through scenic farmlands and rural villages. Upon arriving at the gate, you'll complete the registration process before beginning your trek through lush farmlands and pine forests. The trail starts with a gentle ascent, allowing you to gradually adjust to the altitude. Along the way, you might spot wildlife such as colobus monkeys. The peaceful surroundings offer a great introduction to Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes. Once you arrive at Simba Camp, you’ll enjoy a hot meal and settle in for the night, resting up for the days ahead.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight at Simba Camp

2. 2Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp⌄

   Altitude: 2,600 meters (8,528 feet) – 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) Hiking distance: 10 km Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours Ascend steadily to the Second Cave for lunch. From there, continue across the moorland on a smaller path toward Mawenzi’s jagged peaks. This section of the trek offers beautiful views and a sense of isolation. After about 10 km, you’ll reach Kikelewa Camp, situated in a sheltered valley surrounded by giant Senecios and near the Kikelewa Cave. The camp provides a perfect spot to rest and acclimate to the altitude. Take this time to relax and prepare for the upcoming hike, enjoying the stunning scenery and preparing yourself for the challenges of the next day.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Kikelewa Camp

3. 3Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut⌄

   Altitude: 3,600 meters (11,810 feet) – 4,315 meters (14,157 feet) Hiking distance: 6 km Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, taking you through grassy slopes that lead to the stunning Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The campsite is set in a dramatic, picturesque landscape with breathtaking views in every direction. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch and have time to relax or take a short acclimatization hike to help your body adjust to the altitude. In the evening, you’ll be served dinner, followed by an informative briefing from your guide to prepare you for the next day’s trek to higher altitudes.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Hut

4. 4Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn⌄

   Altitude: 4,330 meters (14,200 feet) This extra day at Mawenzi Tarn is essential for acclimatization. Use this time to hike up toward Mawenzi Peak, which provides a splendid acclimatization opportunity and aids in your body’s adjustment to the higher altitude. The hike offers stunning views and helps your body adapt to the thinner air, preparing you for the more demanding stages of your trek. After your hike, return to Mawenzi Tarn to rest and relax. This rest day is crucial for building the stamina needed for the challenging trek ahead to Kibo Hut. Ensure you stay well-hydrated and focused, as this preparation will be key for your summit attempt.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Hut

5. 5Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut⌄

   Altitude: 4,315 meters (14,157 feet) – 4,720 meters (15,486 feet) Hiking distance: 8 km Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours After breakfast, you'll embark on a trek across the vast, barren lunar landscape known as the "Saddle," which stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is desolate yet mesmerizing, with rugged vistas and the summit looming ahead in the distance. Though the trail is long, it maintains a gentle incline, allowing for a steady pace as you approach the final stage of your journey. Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you'll rest and enjoy an early dinner to conserve energy for the summit attempt. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing, as the ascent to Uhuru Peak begins shortly after midnight.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Kibo Hut

6. 6Kibo Hut | Summit Attempt | Horombo Hut⌄

   Altitude: 4,700 meters (15,419 feet) – 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) – 3,720 meters (12,205 feet) Hiking distance: 22 km Hiking & descending time: 12 to 15 hours Around midnight, you’ll be awakened to begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak. The journey to Gillman’s Point, at 5,685 meters, is steep and strenuous, typically taking around six hours of steady climbing. This challenging section will test your endurance, but your guide will offer support along the way. Once you reach Gillman’s Point, you’ll traverse the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. If the weather cooperates, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the continent. After celebrating your incredible achievement at the summit, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing onward to Horombo Hut for the night.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Horombo Hut

7. 7Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate | Return to Moshi⌄

   Altitude: 3,720 meters (12,205 feet) – 1,830 meters (6,004 feet) Hiking distance: 20 km Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours After breakfast, you’ll start your descent through the diverse moorland and lush rainforest zones, making your way back to Marangu Gate. As you trek downward, take in the final views of the landscape and reflect on your accomplishment. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be presented with your well-earned summit certificate as a testament to your achievement. From there, you’ll be driven back to Springlands Hotel in Moshi, where a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await. If you're interested in extending your adventure, you can meet with our safari coordinator to explore options like a thrilling wildlife safari or a relaxing trip to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Overnight at Springlands Hotel