6-Day Climbing Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Moshi To Nalemoru Gate (1990m) to Simba Camp (2625m)

This morning, we will drive to Nale Moru Village, the starting point of the Rongai Route. The trek begins through farmland and pine forests, offering a peaceful and scenic start. Keep an eye out for Colobus monkeys, known for their striking black-and-white fur, and if lucky, you might spot elephants or buffalos. The trail gradually ascends to Simba Camp (2,625m), located at the edge of the moorland zone. Here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and a peaceful night under the stars.

This first day is an easy acclimatization hike, setting the pace for the days ahead. Stay hydrated, walk at a steady pace, and enjoy the beauty of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes!

Distance: 8km (5mi)
Duration: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: ~725m.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Near Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

• Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Simba camp (2626m) – Kikelewa Camp (3679m)

Today’s trek takes us from Simba Camp (2,625m) toward Kibo, gaining significant altitude as we ascend to First Caves (3,482m) for lunch. This section of the trail covers 5.8km, with a gradual but steady climb. The landscape transitions from moorland to a more open, rugged terrain, offering spectacular views.

After lunch, we continue trekking for another 6km to Kikelewa Camp (3,679m). As we climb higher, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, reinforcing the feeling of being on a truly massive mountain. The vegetation begins to thin, and the vastness of Kilimanjaro becomes evident.

Water is available from a nearby stream, though you may need to walk downhill to find a suitable pool. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a warm dinner and settle in for the night at Kikelewa Camp, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

Distance: 11.8km
Time: 6–7 hours.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• On Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Kikelewa Cave (3679m) – Mawenzi Tarn camp (4303m)

Today's trek is a short but steep climb up grassy slopes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. As you ascend, the landscape transforms, with the vegetation zone gradually ending, giving way to the rugged alpine desert.

After covering 8km (5mi) in about 4–5 hours, we arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m), dramatically situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. The camp is next to a beautiful glacial tarn (small mountain lake), making it one of the most scenic spots on Kilimanjaro.

Upon arrival, you'll have the afternoon free for acclimatization—essential for adjusting to the higher altitude. You can explore the area, take in the incredible mountain views, or simply rest in preparation for the next stage of your journey.

Distance: 8km (5mi)
Time: 4–5 hours.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• On Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Mawenzi Tarn camp (4303m) – Kibo hut (4730m)

After a hearty breakfast, we continue our trek westward, ascending steadily along the eastern slopes of Kibo. The trail takes us across the alpine desert landscape, offering stunning views as we cross the saddle—a broad, arid plateau—nestled between the towering peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. This leg of the journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of 8 km (5 miles).

Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, located at an altitude of 4,700 meters (15,420 feet), we rest and prepare for the final summit push. The remainder of the day is dedicated to relaxation, hydration, and a nourishing early dinner, as the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak awaits.

Distance Covered: 8 km / 5 mi
Approx. Time Taken: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Kibo Hut.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Kibo Hut

• Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro

+2 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Kibo hut (4730m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo hut (3705m)

Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman's Point located on the crater rim (elev 5700m/18,700ft). Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment. The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly "pole pole" and an optimistic attitude will get you there!

-- Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft
-- Down to 3700m/12,200ft
-- Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
-- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
-- Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Main Destination:

Mt Kilimanjaro Summit

Accommodation:

Horombo Hut

• Budget mountain hut located on Mt Kilimanjaro

+5 Photos

+4 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Horombo hut (3705m) – Marangu Gate (1860m) - Moshi

After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 1 hour). Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

-- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
-- Distance: 20km/12.5mi
-- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
-- Habitat: Forest.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.