Embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure along the quiet and scenic Rongai Route, one of Mount Kilimanjaro’s most distinctive paths. Beginning on the northern side near the Kenyan border, this route offers a gradual ascent, excellent acclimatization, and fewer climbers, providing a serene trekking experience.
Covering approximately 75 km, you’ll trek through farmland, lush rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and dramatic lunar landscapes before reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. Perfect for adventurous climbers seeking scenic views, diverse ecosystems, and a rewarding summit.
Upon arrival in Arusha, you will meet your mountain guide and support team. The guide will review your equipment and provide a briefing about the trek. Spend the evening preparing for your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Accommodation: The Charity Hotel
Meals: Dinner
After breakfast, drive to Rongai Gate (1,950 m) to begin the trek. The trail passes through farmland and pine forests before gradually ascending toward the moorland zone.
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Arrive at Simba Camp (2,600 m) with expansive views across the plains of Kenya.
Overnight: Simba Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue trekking through open moorland with spectacular views of Kibo Peak, the main summit cone of Kilimanjaro.
- Distance: 6–7 km
- Hiking Time: ~6 hours
Reach Second Cave Camp (3,450 m), known for its volcanic rock formations and wide open landscapes.
Overnight: Second Cave
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s trek takes you through scenic valleys and areas rich in alpine vegetation.
- Distance: 9 km
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Arrive at Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m), surrounded by unique plant species such as giant lobelias and groundsels.
Overnight: Kikelewa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A shorter but steeper hike leads to Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330 m).
- Distance: 5–6 km
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
This spectacular campsite sits beneath the rugged cliffs of Mawenzi Peak, with views of alpine lakes and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you cross the dramatic “Saddle,” a vast alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo.
- Distance: 9–10 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700 m), the base camp for your summit attempt. The stark, lunar-like terrain creates one of the most unique trekking environments on Kilimanjaro.
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Summit day begins shortly after midnight. Trek steep scree slopes to Gilman's Point (5,681 m) before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Witness an unforgettable sunrise over Africa from the summit.
- Distance: 15 km
- Hiking Time: 10–12 hours
After celebrating at the top, descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 m) for overnight rest.Overnight: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,800 m).
- Distance: 18 km
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
At the gate, you will receive your summit certificate before returning to Arusha, marking the successful completion of your Rongai Route climb.
Accommodation: The Charity Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner