8-Day Kilimanjaro Trek - Rongai Route

Safari overview

The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes. This 10-day itinerary includes an extra day for acclimatization, enhancing your chances of successfully reaching Uhuru Peak.

Kilimanjaro trekking is one of the most popular adventures in Africa, attracting hikers eager to conquer the continent’s highest peak at 5,895 meters. The climb requires no technical mountaineering skills, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced trekkers. Various routes, such as Machame, Marangu, and Lemosho, offer different levels of challenge and scenery, from dense rainforests to alpine deserts and glacial peaks. While the trek is demanding due to high altitude, proper acclimatization and a steady pace increase the chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. The reward is an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views and the ultimate sense of achievement.

Safari Itinerary

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-trek briefing where our guides will discuss essential details about the trek, conduct a gear check, and answer any questions. It’s a day to relax and prepare for the adventure.
  • Altitude: Arusha sits at about 1,400m (4,593ft).
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
  • Meals: Dinner included
After breakfast, drive to Rongai Gate (1,950m/6,398ft) for registration. Begin your trek through pine forests and eventually to moorland. You’ll hike 8 kilometers (5 miles) over 5 to 6 hours to Simba Camp at 2,620 meters (8,598ft).
  • Altitude: 1,950m/6,398ft to 2,620m/8,598ft
  • Distance: 8km (5 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Accommodation: Simba Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today, hike 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) over 3 to 4 hours to Second Cave Camp at 3,450 meters (11,319ft). This route offers breathtaking views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscape, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
  • Altitude: 2,620m/8,598ft to 3,450m/11,319ft
  • Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Accommodation: Second Cave Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Trek 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) over 5 to 6 hours to Kikelewa Camp at 3,600 meters (11,811ft). The trail ascends through moorland and offers magnificent views of the mountain and the surrounding valleys.
  • Altitude: 3,450m/11,319ft to 3,600m/11,811ft
  • Distance: 9km (5.6 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Today’s trek leads you to Mawenzi Tarn Camp at 4,330 meters (14,196ft). Covering 8 kilometers (5 miles) in about 4 to 5 hours, you’ll gain altitude and enjoy stunning views of the Mawenzi Peak. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and taking in the beautiful scenery.
  • Altitude: 3,600m/11,811ft to 4,330m/14,196ft
  • Distance: 8km (5 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Spend a day acclimatizing at Mawenzi Tarn Camp. You can take a short hike to the base of Mawenzi Peak, which is a rewarding trek with breathtaking views. This day allows your body to adjust to the altitude, increasing your chances of a successful summit.
  • Altitude: 4,330m/14,196ft
  • Distance: Varies based on the hike
  • Trekking Time: 2-4 hours for the acclimatization hike
  • Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Depart Mawenzi Tarn Camp for Kibo Camp at 4,700 meters (15,420ft). The trek covers 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) over 6 to 7 hours through the lunar landscape, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy the unique environment.
  • Altitude: 4,330m/14,196ft to 4,700m/15,420ft
  • Distance: 9km (5.6 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
  • Accommodation: Kibo Camp
The summit push starts around midnight. Ascend to Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft), then continue to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters (19,341ft). After celebrating at the summit, descend to Horombo Camp at 3,720 meters (12,205ft). This demanding day covers approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) over 12 to 15 hours.
  • Altitude: 4,700m/15,420ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720m/12,205ft
  • Distance: 21km (13 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 12-15 hours
  • Accommodation: Horombo Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, covering 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) over 5 to 6 hours. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before returning to Arusha for a well-deserved celebration.
  • Altitude: 3,720m/12,205ft to 1,870m/6,135ft
  • Distance: 20km (12.4 miles)
  • Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
  • Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
After a restful night, you’ll transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, carrying unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
  • Meals: Breakfast included

Includes

  • Airport transfers (Kilimanjaro International Airport)
  • Two (2) nights’ accommodation in Arusha
  • All park transfers and Park fees
  • Quality mountain camping equipment (tents & sleeping mats)
  • Certified professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
  • Three hot meals daily on the mountain with treated drinking water
  • Safety equipment (oxygen, pulse oximeter, first-aid kit)
  • Portable flush toilet for groups of 4+ (USD 95 extra for smaller groups)

Excludes

  • International and domestic flights
  • Visa fees and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (laundry, beverages, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Personal trekking gear and clothing
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Tips for guides, porters, and mountain crew
  • Additional accommodation outside the stated itinerary
  • Online payment surcharge of 5% on the remaining balance

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