7 Days Rongai route Kilimanjaro Hiking escape
This trek offers an opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine desert, culminating in a thrilling summit to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Each day of this adventure brings new challenges and breathtaking scenery, promising an unforgettable experience. Welcome to an extraordinary trekking adventure along the Rongai Route of Mount Kilimanjaro. Prepare for an expedition that immerses you in the beauty of Tanzania's highest peak.
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– Kikelewa Cave
- Day 4 : Kikelewa Cave-Mawenzi Tarn
- Day 5 : Mawenzi Tarn– Kibo Hut Uhuru Peak (summit point) - Horombo Hut
- Day 6 : Kibo Hut Uhuru Peak (summit point) - Back to Horombo Hut
- Day 7 : Horombo Hut - Mandara Hut - Marangu gate - Back to Moshi/Arusha
Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi Rongai Gate- Simba Camp
Distance: 8km Duration: 4-5 hours Temperature: 20-30°C The journey begins with a drive to the Rongai Gate, where the hike commences through dense rainforests teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Ascending steadily, reach Simba Camp, your first overnight stop, immersed in the tranquility of the forest.
Destination: Rongai Gate To Simba Camp
Accommodation: Simba Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 2: Simba Camp- Second Cave
Distance: 5km Duration: 3-4 hours Temperature: 15-25°C The trail takes you through moorland, offering glimpses of Kilimanjaro's impressive scenery. As you trek towards the Second Cave, the landscape transforms, revealing the rugged beauty of the high-altitude terrain.
Destination: Simba Camp To Second Cave Camp
Accommodation: Second Cave Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 3: Second Cave– Kikelewa Cave
Distance: 6km Duration: 4-5 hours Temperature: 10-20°C Traverse across the alpine desert, passing striking volcanic formations. Arrive at Kikelewa Cave, set against a stunning backdrop of the Kibo Massif, where you'll spend the night
Destination: Second Cave Camp To Third Cave Camp
Accommodation: Kikelelwa Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 4: Kikelewa Cave-Mawenzi Tarn
Distance: 6km Duration: 4-5 hours Temperature: 5-15°C Trek to Mawenzi Tarn, a picturesque glacial lake nestled beneath Mawenzi Peak. Experience a dramatic change in scenery as you enter the alpine desert, with breathtaking views along the way
Destination: Kikelelwa Camp To Mawenzi Turn Camp
Accommodation: Mawenzi Turn Campsite
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn– Kibo Hut Uhuru Peak (summit point) - Horombo Hut
Distance: 15km Duration: 12-15 hours Temperature: -5 to -10°C (summit) Prepare for the ultimate challenge as you ascend to Kibo Hut, the launchpad for the summit. Push through the night to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, and savor an awe-inspiring sunrise. Descend to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
Destination: Mawenzi Turn Camp To School Hut Camp
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 6: Kibo Hut Uhuru Peak (summit point) - Back to Horombo Hut
Today is a descent from the summit back to Horombo Hut, relishing the accomplishment of reaching Uhuru Peak and taking in the ever-changing scenery.
Destination: Kibo Hut To Uhuru Peak To Horombo Hut
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking water
Day 7: Horombo Hut - Mandara Hut - Marangu gate - Back to Moshi/Arusha
Descend through lush rainforests, passing Mandara Hut, and reach Marangu Gate, where you'll receive certificates commemorating your Kilimanjaro ascent. Transfer back to Moshi/Arusha for a well-earned celebration.
Destination: Horombo Hut To Mandara Hut To Marangu Gate
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch
Price Includes
- Sleeping bag or bed linen
- Rescue fee
- 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 Rongai Route is considered moderately challenging, offering a gradual ascent and diverse landscapes.
Good physical fitness and stamina are essential. Regular cardiovascular exercises and strength training are recommended.
Acclimatization is crucial to reduce altitude sickness risks. Our itinerary is designed to facilitate proper acclimatization.
Proper hiking gear, warm clothing, sturdy boots, and essential personal items are necessary. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.
Our guides are trained in first aid and carry medical kits. There's also an option for supplemental oxygen if needed.
Accommodations include tents at designated campsites equipped with necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
Nutritious meals are provided throughout the trek, catering to various dietary preferences. Special dietary needs can be accommodated
The summit night involves a long and strenuous hike, both physically and mentally demanding. However, our experienced guides support and encourage trekkers throughout the ascent.
Weather on Kilimanjaro varies, from hot and humid at lower altitudes to freezing temperatures at higher elevations, especially during the summit attempt.