The 7 days Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft / 5,895 m) from the north, near the Kenyan border, offering a unique and less-traveled path to the summit. It begins in drier lowlands and gradually ascends through remote wilderness, alpine moorlands, and high-altitude desert, before joining the Marangu Route for the final summit push. The scenery is quieter and more pristine, with chances to spot wildlife in the early days of the trek.
Ideal for those seeking a peaceful and gradual ascent, the 7 days Rongai Route provides excellent acclimatization by including an extra day before summit night. Its consistent incline, diverse landscapes, and lower foot traffic make it a favorite for climbers looking for a quieter, scenic alternative to the busier southern routes—without sacrificing summit success rates.
Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Your Kilimanjaro Adventure!
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi, a peaceful town nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax at the hotel, explore the town, or enjoy local cuisine. In the evening, meet your mountain guides and crew for a comprehensive trek briefing. Your gear will be checked, and any last-minute rentals or purchases can be arranged to ensure you’re fully prepared for your climb.
Day 1: Moshi – Rongai Gate (1,950 m) – Simba Camp (2,620 m)
After breakfast, depart Moshi for a 3–4 hour drive to the Rongai Gate on the northern side of Kilimanjaro near the Kenyan border. Once registration is complete, begin your trek through a drier montane forest area known for its chances to spot wildlife like colobus monkeys and antelope. The trail ascends gradually to Simba Camp on the edge of the moorland zone, where you’ll enjoy your first night in the wild.
Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: ~4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp (3,480 m)
Today’s hike continues steadily upward through heather and moorland with increasingly impressive views of Kilimanjaro’s summit and the surrounding landscape. You’ll arrive at Second Cave Camp in the early afternoon, giving you time to rest and acclimate. This camp sits in a wide-open area with expansive views toward the plains of Kenya.
Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: ~3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Second Cave Camp – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m)
This shorter but steeper trek climbs over rocky terrain and into the high moorland zone, where the vegetation becomes more sparse. The views of Mawenzi Peak become more dramatic as you gain elevation. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp in the early afternoon and enjoy some acclimatization time in this remote, beautiful setting.
Distance: 6 km | Hiking Time: ~3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)
A steady climb takes you up to the spectacular Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. The landscape is stark and alpine, offering stunning mountain vistas. This is a key acclimatization day with time in the afternoon to explore the area or rest at camp.
Distance: 4 km | Hiking Time: ~4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Today’s route crosses the barren Saddle, a high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The environment is harsh and windy, with little vegetation, but the path is gentle and steady. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the early afternoon and rest, hydrate, and prepare for your summit push, which begins shortly after midnight.
Distance: 9 km | Hiking Time: ~5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Begin your summit attempt around midnight, trekking slowly by headlamp up steep scree to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m). From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After a short celebration at the summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for a break, then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Distance: 21 km | Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Moshi
After breakfast, complete your final descent through the lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Take in the last views of the mountain and enjoy the diverse plant and bird life along the trail. At the gate, receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your crew. A private transfer will return you to Moshi for a hot shower, a hearty meal, and time to relax.
Distance: 20 km | Hiking Time: ~5–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
| Number of People | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2100 USD |
| 2–4 People | $1950 USD |
| 5–9 People | $1850 USD |
| 10+ People | $1700 USD |
✅ 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi or Arusha (before and after the trek)
✅ Private airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
✅ Professional mountain guide and full support crew (rangers, porters, cook)
✅ All Mount Kilimanjaro Park fees, hut fees, and rescue charges
✅ 18% VAT on all applicable services
✅ Accommodation in mountain huts during the trek
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
✅ Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooking staff
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit and basic medical support
✅ Katadyn-filtered drinking water throughout the climb
✅ Emergency evacuation procedures where necessary
❌ International and domestic flight tickets
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Travel and medical insurance
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and cook (optional but appreciated)
❌ Personal hiking gear (clothing, boots, backpacks, etc.)
❌ Laundry services at the hotel (available at extra cost)
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