6 Days Hiking Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

You will be collected by one of crew members at Kilimanjaro Airport for transfer to your hotel or a homestay as per the programmed booked. After some rest at the Hotel or homestay where you can avail yourself of all its amenities including hot showers, comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi and swimming pool, a briefing and pre-climb check of your readiness will be conducted by your climb manager or tour guide..

After an early breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic drive to the Rongai Gate, the starting point of your trek. Here, you'll complete registration formalities before setting off on the trail. The first day's hike takes you through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. As you ascend, the landscape gradually changes, and after approximately 3-4 hours of hiking, you'll reach Simba Camp. This is your first campsite, where you'll spend the night under the starlit African sky, surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

• Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,600m (8,530ft)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: Approximately 7km (4.3 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Habitat: Rainforest

Today's trek takes you further into the foothills of Kilimanjaro. The trail winds through moorland, characterized by open grasslands and occasional stands of giant heather. You'll steadily gain altitude as you make your way to Second Cave Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,450 meters. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and keep an eye out for wildlife such as colobus monkeys and various bird species. Upon reaching camp, relax and acclimatize to the higher altitude, preparing yourself for the days ahead.

• Elevation: 2,600m (8,530ft) to 3,450m (11,319ft)
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: Approximately 11km (6.8 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Habitat: Moorland

Leaving Second Cave Camp behind, you'll continue your ascent towards Kikelewa Camp. Today's trail offers stunning vistas of the rugged terrain, with Kilimanjaro's iconic peaks looming ever closer. As you hike, you'll notice the landscape becoming more sparse, dominated by rocky outcrops and alpine desert vegetation. Kikelewa Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,600 meters, provides a picturesque setting for your overnight stay. Take in the breathtaking views and relish the sense of accomplishment as you settle in for the night.

• Elevation: 3,450m (11,319ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: Approximately 6km (3.7 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today's trek takes you to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro's second highest summit, Mawenzi. The trail gradually ascends through alpine desert terrain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach Mawenzi Tarn, you'll be greeted by a pristine alpine lake, set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations. Spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing at camp, taking short walks to further explore the area and prepare for the final push to the summit.

• Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,206ft)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: Approximately 8km (5 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today is the culmination of your journey as you set out for the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. The ascent begins in the early hours of the morning, under the glow of starlight, as you make your way up steep and challenging terrain. As the sun rises, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, you'll push onward, fueled by determination and the support of your experienced guides. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to savor the incredible sense of achievement and enjoy panoramic views stretching across the vast African plains below. After celebrating your success, begin the descent back to Horombo Hut, where you'll spend your final night on the mountain, reflecting on the unforgettable experience.

• Elevation: 4,330m (14,206ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-7 hours descent)
• Distance: Approximately 21km (13 miles)
• Difficulty: Very Challenging
• Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

On the last day of your trek, you'll descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps back to Marangu Gate. Here, you'll bid farewell to your guides and porters, who have supported you throughout the journey. After completing the necessary formalities and receiving your summit certificate, you'll transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can rest and reminisce about your incredible adventure on Kilimanjaro. Take time to explore the local markets, interact with the friendly Tanzanian people, and soak in the vibrant culture before departing for your onward journey.

• Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,860m (6,102ft)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: Approximately 20km (12.4 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Habitat: Rainforest