8 Days Kilimanjaro Trekking Via Rongai Route
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.
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.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
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
Day 2: Arusha to Rongai Gate, then trek to Simba Camp
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
Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
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
Day 4: Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp
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
Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
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
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp
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
Day 7: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Camp
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
Day 8: Kibo Camp to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Horombo 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
Day 9: Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate, then return to Arusha
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
Day 10: Departure from Arusha
After a restful night, you’ll transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, carrying unforgettable memories of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
- Meals: Breakfast included
Price Includes
- Private transport to & from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your accommodations in Arusha.
- 2 nights of accommodation in Arusha.
- Transportation to & from the Kilimanjaro gate.
- Park entry fees.
- Camping fees.
- Rescue fees.
- 4 Season mountain tents.
- Double layered Sleeping Mats.
- Friendly and professional mountain guides, cook and porters.
- 3 hot meals daily while on the mountain, hot drinks and snacks.
- Enough treated & filtered drinking water throughout the trek.
- Hot water for washing.
- Portable oxygen tanks & ox meter.
- Emergency first-aid kit.
- Portable flush toilet from Group of 4 if your less than 4 you will pay extra 95$.
Price Excludes
- International & domestic airfare & flights.
- All items of a personal nature.
- Laundry (Available at hotel).
- Travel insurance.
- Visa fees.
- Surcharge for online payment of balance (5%).
PRICE
From $1700