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Climbing Kilimanjaro - Rongai Route

  • 6 Days | 5 Nights
  • Rongai Gate
  • Simba Camp
  • Kikelewa Camp
  • Mawenzi Tarn
  • Kibo Hut
  • Marangu Gate

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Tour Overview

The 6-day Rongai Route offers a unique and scenic path to the summit of Kilimanjaro, starting on the northern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border. This less-traveled route allows you to enjoy the breathtaking wilderness without the crowds, providing an intimate trekking experience. 

Your journey begins with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be welcomed by our driver and taken to the Hotel for a relaxing night. Here, you’ll also participate in a pre-trek briefing with your guides.

The trek starts at the remote Rongai Gate, where you will traverse various ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, culminating in the glaciers at Uhuru Peak. Along the way, you’ll acclimatize at designated camps, with our expert guides ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the ascent. 

After reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak, you will descend via the Marangu Route, allowing you to experience different aspects of the mountain. Once the trek is complete, you’ll return to the Hotel for a well-deserved rest. For those wishing to extend their adventure, options for a safari or a Zanzibar beach vacation are available, creating a full Tanzanian experience. 

Arrival

As you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our dedicated driver will be there to greet you with a sign bearing your name, ensuring a warm and heartfelt welcome. You will then enjoy a seamless transfer to the Hotel, where you will be served a delicious meal upon arrival.

Later, our experienced mountain coordinators and your guide will conduct a pre-trekking briefing, giving you an exciting opportunity to learn about the wonders that await in your upcoming expedition.

Take some time to unwind in the relaxing environment of your Hotel, which features a swimming pool, a beautiful garden, a bar, and a restaurant, perfect for your first night in Tanzania.

Overnight

Sal salinero hotel or similar

Moshi 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 a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you’ll embark on a scenic 2 to 3-hour drive to the Rongai Gate, passing through picturesque farmlands and rural villages. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll complete the registration process before commencing your trek through lush farmlands and pine forests.

The trail begins with a gentle ascent, allowing you to gradually acclimatize to the altitude. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, including the playful colobus monkeys. The serene surroundings provide a great introduction to Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.

Once you arrive at Simba Camp, you’ll be treated to a hot meal and settle in for the night, resting up for the adventures that lie ahead.

Trek to Kikelewa Camp

Altitude:

2,600 meters (8,530 feet) – 3,600 meters (11,810 feet)

Hiking distance:

10 km

Hiking time:

6 to 7 hours

After an early breakfast, you’ll embark on your trek, ascending through the picturesque moorland zone. As you climb higher, the landscape opens up, revealing stunning views of the eastern ice fields along Kilimanjaro’s crater rim. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Kikelewa Camp, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Upon arrival at the camp, you can enjoy a hot, freshly prepared meal and take some time to rest. Soaking in the serenity of the high-altitude environment will help you prepare for the next stage of your adventure, ensuring you are well-rested and ready for the challenges ahead.

Trek to Mawenzi Tarn

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, leading you through grassy slopes that culminate at the stunning Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The campsite is set in a dramatic and picturesque landscape, offering breathtaking views in every direction.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch and have some time to relax. You can also take a short acclimatization hike to help your body adjust to the altitude. In the evening, a delicious dinner will be served, followed by an informative briefing from your guide, preparing you for the next day’s trek to higher altitudes. This day is crucial for acclimatization, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. 

Mawenzi 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. This desolate yet mesmerizing terrain features rugged vistas with the summit looming ahead in the distance. The trail, while long, 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 have the opportunity to rest and enjoy an early dinner, which is essential for conserving energy for the summit attempt. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing in the evening, as the ascent to Uhuru Peak will begin shortly after midnight, ensuring you’re fully prepared for this exhilarating challenge. 

Summit Attempt to Uhuru Peak and Descent

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. This 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 be there to offer support and encouragement along the way.

Upon reaching 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, an experience that many climbers describe as one of the most memorable moments of their journey. 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, completing this exhilarating trek.

This day’s itinerary encapsulates the ultimate highlight of the Kilimanjaro climb, combining physical challenge with stunning natural beauty, making it an unforgettable adventure.  

Descent to Marangu Gate and return to Moshi

Altitude:

3,720 meters (12,205 feet) – 1,830 meters (6,004 feet)

Hiking distance:

20 km

Descending 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. This trek downward allows you to take in the final views of the beautiful landscape, giving you a moment to reflect on your incredible accomplishment. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be presented with your well-earned summit certificate, a testament to your achievement on Kilimanjaro.

From there, you’ll be driven back to your Hotel in Moshi, where a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await to welcome you back from your adventure. If you’re interested in extending your journey, 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. This concludes your Kilimanjaro experience, but the memories will last a lifetime! 

Overnight

Sal salinero hotel or similar

Departure Day: Final Transfers and Optional Extensions

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider adding a day trip to explore nearby attractions or immerse yourself in local culture. For more details, please visit our Day Trip page.

Alternatively, you can continue your journey with a visit to the stunning island of Zanzibar. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or want to delve into the island’s rich culture, Zanzibar offers something for everyone. Explore our Zanzibar page to discover the perfect package for your next excursion. If you’re interested in adding a thrilling safari experience, please visit our Safari page for more information on our exciting safari options.

Climbing Kilimanjaro - Rongai Route (6 days hike) | Price per Person

1 Pax

$ 1962

2 Pax

$ 1772

3 Pax

$ 1772

4 Pax

$ 1772

5 Pax

$ 1772

6 Pax

$ 1703

Included

Two nights accommodation at the hotel (before and after the climb)

-First night includes breakfast
-Last night includes dinner and breakfast

Qualified guides and mountain crew
Kilimanjaro National park fees
Hut/camping fees and tents
Tents, foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and eating utensils (cutlery/crockery)
Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
Pulse oximeters
First aid kit
Salaries for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport - JRO)
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, waiter, and cook on the mountain

Excluded

Single room supplement at Hotel
Tips for guides, porters, cook, and waiter
Personal mountain equipment (e.g., sleeping bags)

- Some equipment is available for rent; see our rental price list

Personal expenses and items of personal nature
Emergency oxygen
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Extra activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit)
Visa fees and travel insurance
Flight tickets

BOOK THIS TOUR

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