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6 Days Trekking mount Kilimanjaro via Rongai

Short Overview

Start your unforgettable 7-day journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the lesser-traveled Rongai Route. This incredible trek takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding African wilderness. The Rongai Route, known for its stunning approach from the northeastern side, is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Kilimanjaro while avoiding the crowds. The descent follows the Marangu route, allowing you to experience both sides of the mountain. Along the way, you’ll pass by mountain lakes, encounter unique wildlife, and witness dramatic landscapes as you ascend toward the roof of Africa.

Your Journey Mapped 

Day 1 – Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Moshi
Day 2 – Nalemoru Gate (1,990 m) – Simba Camp (2,625 m)
Day 3 – Simba Camp (2,625 m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m)
Day 4 – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m)
Day 5 – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Day 6 – Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)
Day 7 – Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Return to Moshi
Day 8 – Farewell or Extend Your Journey

 

Itinerary day by day

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Welcome to Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and transferred to Moshi, a bustling town at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Take the rest of the day to relax, explore the area, and mentally prepare for your trek. In the evening, a thorough briefing will be held, covering everything you need to know for the days ahead. Overnight at the comfortable Sal Salinero Hotel.
Day 2: Moshi to Nalemoru Gate (1,990 m) – Simba Camp (2,625 m)
After a hearty breakfast, your trek begins with a scenic 3-4 hour drive around the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. At the Nalemoru Gate, your climb officially begins. As you hike through mountain farms and pine forests, you’ll enter the lower mountain zone, where colobus monkeys and other wildlife might make an appearance. After a few hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at Simba Camp, nestled in the mountain’s foothills, and spend your first night in the wilderness.
Day 3: Simba Camp (2,625 m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m)
Today’s trek leads you through the lush heather and moorland zones, where sweeping views of the Mawenzi peak and the Kenyan steppes await. A break at the Second Cave (3,450 m) provides a chance for lunch before continuing across the undulating terrain to reach the peaceful Kikelewa Camp. Settle in for a quiet night surrounded by nature, as the stunning views continue to unfold.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m)
As you ascend further, the environment becomes more barren, dotted with fascinating rock formations and senecio vegetation. If weather permits, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of both Kibo and Mawenzi summits, along with Kenya’s vast savannah. The trek culminates at Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m), a camp with a unique atmosphere, often considered a highlight of the route.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Today’s trek will take you across the Kibo Saddle, a vast, arid plateau with few signs of life. The landscape is stark but stunning, with scattered hardy plants and volcanic rock formations. After a final rocky passage, you’ll arrive at Kibo Hut, where you can relax and prepare for the summit climb the following night.
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)
The summit push begins at midnight with a challenging 5-7 hour ascent to Gillman’s Point (5,715 m), located on the rim of the crater. From here, you’ll push on for another 1-2 hours to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you’ll stand triumphant at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). After celebrating your achievement, you’ll begin your descent, retracing your steps to Kibo Hut for a brief rest. Continue downward to Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Return to Moshi
Enjoy a well-earned breakfast before beginning your 5-6 hour descent to Marangu Gate. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush rainforests, home to diverse plant and animal species. Upon reaching the gate, you’ll say your goodbyes to your guides and porters. A short transfer will bring you back to Moshi, where you’ll relax and celebrate your incredible achievement at the Sal Salinero Hotel.
Day 8: Farewell or Extend Your Journey
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward journey. Alternatively, you may choose to extend your adventure with a thrilling safari or unwind on the beautiful beaches of Tanzania.

Includes /excludes

Included

  • Transfers to and from the accommodation in Moshi to start and exit gate.
  • Park fees, camping fees, rescue fees for non-resident adult lease request reduced rate for kids below 15 years)
  • Guides, porters and chefs.
  • Three meals a day on the climb.
  • Full camping facilities, including mattress and sleeping bags, except for personal gear 
  • Oxygen tank, frequent oxygen and pulse checks during the climb.
  • Taxes.
  • Airport transfers
  • Pre-briefing & equipment check one day prior to the climb at the guest’s hotel/hostel in Moshi.
  • Free city tour (walking) on the free day prior to the climb.

Excluded

  • Accommodation before and after the climb (can be organized).
  • Tips to crew (request for recommended tipping rates).
  • Travel insurance.
  • All items of personal nature.
  • Beverages and laundry except where shown.
  • Personal mountain climber gear (available for hire).

Price on Request

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