7 Days Rongai Route

Embark on your Kilimanjaro expedition by setting off early from the town of Moshi. Your journey will take you roughly 2 hours to Naro Moru, a small community nestled on the northeastern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Continuing for about 68 kilometers (around 2.5 hours) on bumpy, rugged roads, you will eventually reach the Rongai Gate (Nale Moru) perched at an elevation of 1,996 meters. Here, your mountain guide and porters will greet you, ready to assist you on the upcoming trek. Following a quick briefing and gear check, your hike commences as you traverse through Nale Moru village, meandering along a narrow path that weaves through local maize and potato fields. Progressing further, the trail leads you into a captivating pine forest, offering occasional glimpses of wildlife and birds along the way. After 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you will find yourself at Simba Camp, situated at an altitude of 2,626 meters on the outskirts of the moorland zone. Altitude: 1,996m to 2,626m Trekking Time: 3–4 hours Habitat: Montane Forest.

Following a delightful breakfast at Simba Camp, your second day on the mountain kicks off with a gradual climb towards the Second Cave Camp. The trek for today is relatively brief, lasting around 3 to 4 hours, allowing your body ample opportunity to adjust to the altitude. As you leave the forested area behind, you’ll enter the moorland zone, where the landscape transforms with heather, towering lobelias, and other alpine flora. The atmosphere becomes crisper, and the scenery unfolds magnificently. If the weather is clear, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the plains of Kenya to the north and the snowy peak of Kibo straight ahead. Dinner will be served early, providing you with time to unwind, gaze at the stars, and have a restful night’s sleep in preparation for a longer hike the following day. Elevation Gain: +824 meters Duration of Hike: 3–4 hours Habitat: Moorland.

Following your morning meal at the Second Cave Camp, your hike will resume with a gradual upward climb towards the southeast through the moorland. The terrain will gradually transform into a more rugged and open landscape, characterized by a decrease in trees and an increase in alpine plants like Senecio and giant groundsel scattered across the area. Despite only gaining 150 meters in elevation, this portion of the trek is crucial for adjusting to the altitude gradually while making progress towards the peak. As you traverse the path, you will be treated to stunning vistas of Mawenzi Peak, the rugged secondary summit of Kilimanjaro. This majestic peak stands out against the panoramic moorland scenery, indicating your proximity to the heart of the mountain. After approximately 3 to 4 hours of hiking, you will arrive at Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a secluded valley surrounded by towering cliffs and lush highland vegetation. This campsite is more secluded and less visited, providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Following a hearty breakfast at Kikelewa Camp, embark on a picturesque and fulfilling leg of the journey along the Rongai Route. The path commences with a brief yet steep ascent through grassy slopes, rapidly climbing in altitude as you bid farewell to the moorland and venture into the alpine desert region. Here, the greenery thins out, the air grows more rarefied, but the vistas become increasingly awe-inspiring. As you progress upwards, the majestic spires of Mawenzi Peak command the scenery, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your trek. This particular stretch is among the most visually captivating segments of the entire expedition, offering sweeping panoramas down the trail and towards Kibo Peak across the saddle. After approximately 3–4 hours of trekking, reach the enchanting Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the grand Mawenzi cliffs next to a serene glacial tarn. At an elevation of 4,330 meters, this campsite stands out as one of the most scenic spots on Kilimanjaro. Elevation Gain: +730 meters Hiking Duration: 3–4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert

Following a hearty breakfast at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, you will pack your belongings and set off towards the foot of Kilimanjaro’s primary peak, Uhuru Peak. The journey today involves traversing the high-altitude Saddle, a desolate, windy expanse that lies between the jagged formations of Mawenzi Peak and the colossal, snow-capped Kibo. While the path is broad and gentle, the surroundings gradually become more severe and arid, characterized by sparse vegetation and thin air typical of high altitudes. The landscape is barren and reminiscent of the moon—a truly remarkable aspect of the ascent. Given the increased likelihood of feeling the effects of altitude today, it is crucial to maintain a steady pace, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion. This location serves as your base camp before the final ascent to the summit. Upon arrival in the early afternoon, you will have time to relax, enjoy an early dinner, and organize your equipment for the summit bid, which begins around midnight. Elevation Gain: +370 meters Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert.

Commencing before dawn, you will embark on your journey to the summit under a canopy of twinkling stars. Following a light snack and a warm cup of tea, you will commence the gradual ascent to the peak of Africa. The path is steep, winding its way up a rugged incline of loose scree and volcanic debris. This leg of the hike is the most physically and mentally challenging, exacerbated by the chilly temperatures, thin air, and the darkness before dawn. After persevering for 5–7 hours, you will arrive at Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the rim of the crater, just in time to witness a magnificent sunrise over the sweeping African plains. From this vantage point, it is approximately another 1–2 hours along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the zenith of Africa. 🏔️ Uhuru Peak – Heartiest congratulations! You have conquered Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit! Celebrate this remarkable feat, capture memories by the iconic summit marker, and absorb the panoramic vistas from the Apex of Africa. Due to the extreme altitude and cold conditions, your visit will be brief—after 10–15 minutes, you will commence your descent.

Following a rejuvenating night’s sleep and a satisfying breakfast at Horombo Hut, your expedition will kick off its final descent from Mount Kilimanjaro. The route guides you through various ecological zones, commencing in expansive moorland before swiftly transitioning into the verdant montane rainforest. As you traverse downwards, you will encounter Mandara Hut (2,700m), where a brief pit stop will provide an opportunity to relax and relish a last glimpse of the forest canopy. Continuing on, the pathway leads through a meticulously maintained trail adorned with ferns, blooming wildflowers, and perhaps playful monkeys as you reimmerse into the forest belt. Your guide and the support crew will bid you adieu before you are transported back to Moshi, where a refreshing shower, cozy bed, and a celebratory feast eagerly await your return! You have successfully completed the Rongai Route to the zenith of Mount Kilimanjaro, triumphing over Africa’s highest summit. This voyage embodies resilience, resolve, and enduring natural splendor—and you have accomplished it. Descent Elevation: –1,860 meters Trekking Duration: 5–7 hours Terrain: Moorland transitioning to Rainforest.