6 Days Alpine Ascent Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Journey
Embark on an exhilarating 6-day trekking adventure along the Rongai Route to the summit of Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak. This journey offers a unique blend of challenging ascents, breathtaking landscapes, and the unparalleled satisfaction of reaching Uhuru Peak. From the starting point at Kilimanjaro Airport to the final descent through lush greenery, each day promises a different set of challenges and rewards.
Tour highlights
- Arrival Day : Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi/Arusha
- Day 1 : Moshi Rongai Gate Simba Camp
- Day 2 : Simba Camp Second Cave
- Day 3 : : Second Cave Third Cave
- Day 4 : Third Cave Kibo Hut
- Day 5 : Kibo Hut Uhuru Peak (Summit Point) - Back to Horombo Hut
- Day 6 : Horombo Hut - Mandara Hut - Marangu Gate - Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi Rongai Gate Simba Camp
• Length: Approximately 8 km • Hours: 5-6 hours • Temperature: 20°C to 30°C • Landscape: Start in lush rainforest, gradually transitioning to moorland. Embark on the Rongai Route, commencing at the Rongai gate. Trek through dense rainforests, catching glimpses of wildlife, before ascending to Simba Camp. Marvel at the changing scenery, with the summit teasing from a distance.
Destination: Rongai Gate To Simba Camp
Accommodation: Shira 1 Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: Simba Camp Second Cave
• Length: Around 6 km • Hours: 4-5 hours • Temperature: 15°C to 25°C • Landscape: Alpine meadows, providing a stark contrast to the previous day. Climb through alpine meadows, catching your first views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Reach the Second Cave, surrounded by the raw beauty of Kilimanjaro's alpine terrain.
Destination: Simba Camp To Second Cave Camp
Accommodation: Simba Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 3: : Second Cave Third Cave
• Length: Approximately 7 km • Hours: 5-6 hours • Temperature: 10°C to 20°C • Landscape: Rocky terrain, showcasing Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems. Traverse rocky landscapes, gaining altitude as you approach the Third Cave. The surroundings change dramatically, offering a taste of the high-altitude challenges ahead.
Destination: Second Cave Camp To Third Cave Camp
Accommodation: Third Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: Third Cave Kibo Hut
• Length: Around 8 km • Hours: 6-7 hours • Temperature: 5°C to 15°C • Landscape: Alpine desert, with a sense of isolation and grandeur. Ascend through the lunar-like landscape of the alpine desert, reaching Kibo Hut at the base of the crater wall. As you prepare for the summit push, the air becomes thinner, hinting at the challenges of the final ascent.
Destination: Third Cave Camp To Kibo Camp
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Kibo Hut Uhuru Peak (Summit Point) - Back to Horombo Hut
• Length: Approximately 16 km • Hours: 10-12 hours • Temperature: -10°C to 5°C • Landscape: Glacial and snow-covered, leading to the iconic Uhuru Peak. The ultimate day. Summit Kilimanjaro via the challenging Gilman's Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak. Revel in the breathtaking views before descending to Horombo Hut, surrounded by glaciers and the sense of accomplishment.
Destination: Kibo Hut To Uhuru Peak To Horombo Hut
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Horombo Hut - Mandara Hut - Marangu Gate - Back to Moshi/Arusha
• Length: Approximately 20 km • Hours: 5-6 hours descent • Temperature: 10°C to 20°C • Landscape: Descend through moorland, rainforest, and lush vegetation. Descend through various ecological zones, from alpine desert to rainforest. Reach Marangu Gate, where you bid farewell to Kilimanjaro and return to Moshi or Arusha, enriched by an unforgettable alpine adventure.
Destination: Horombo Hut To Mandara Hut To Marangu Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking water
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- Park fees
- A professional driver/guide
- Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
- All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
- Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
- All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Price Excludes
- International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips: tipping guideline
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time is during the dry seasons, typically from late June to October and December to March.
The trek is challenging, requiring good physical fitness. Regular exercise and acclimatization are essential.
Uhuru Peak, standing at an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
• A: Participants must be at least 10 years old, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The itinerary includes acclimatization days, gradual ascents, and professional guides monitoring your health.
Adequate clothing, sturdy footwear, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and other essentials as per the provided checklist.
Yes, please inform us in advance, and we will cater to your dietary preferences.
What is the group size for the trek? Group sizes are kept small for a more personalized experience, typically ranging from 4 to 12 participants.
How is waste managed on the trek? • A: We follow Leave No Trace principles, and all waste is carried off the mountain for proper disposal.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance, including evacuation coverage, is mandatory
While the core itinerary is fixed, we can discuss specific requests to tailor the experience.
Reviews for 6 Days Alpine Ascent Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Hiking Journey
By John Doe 
Visited: December 2022
An unforgettable journey with responsible guides. The commitment to the environment and local communities was evident. Kudos to the team for a life-changing experience.
By Maria Rodriguez 
Visited: May 2022
The Rongai Route was a revelation. The team's respect for nature and local culture added depth to the trek. Grateful for the memories created
By Sophie Thompson 
Visited: November 2021
Nature at its best! The responsible approach to trekking showcased a deep commitment to sustainability. A journey that resonates long after the descent
By Mohamed Ali 
Visited: August 2020
An emotional and physical triumph. The guides' awareness of responsible tourism made the Kilimanjaro experience exceptional. A true adventure with purpose
By Elena Petrov 
Visited: September 2020
A seamless blend of adventure and responsibility. The guides' dedication to minimizing environmental impact made this trek stand out. Kilimanjaro, you beauty
By James Miller 
Visited: April 2020
The Rongai Route was more than a climb; it was an education. Responsible tourism practices were evident throughout. A journey that inspires positive change
By Linda Nyambura 
Visited: February 2023
Proud to have chosen a company committed to responsible trekking. The guides' knowledge of the local ecosystem added depth to the experience. A journey with a purpose.
By Carlos Hernandez 
Visited: June 2020
Kilimanjaro revealed its magic, and the responsible approach of the guides enhanced the entire trek. An adventure that leaves a positive impact on both the traveler and the environment.
By Yuki Tanaka 
Visited: November 2022
From sunrise to summit, the Rongai Route was a spectacle. The commitment to eco-friendly practices resonated throughout. An experience etched in my heart
By Olga Ivanova
Visited: December 2000
A journey that exemplifies responsible travel. The guides' dedication to the environment and local communities was commendable. Kilimanjaro, a mountain of wonders and conscience.