The 7-Day Rongai Route offers one of the quietest and most scenic approaches to Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching the mountain from the north near the Kenyan border. With sparse crowds, expansive views, and varied landscapes, this route is perfect for trekkers seeking a peaceful and less-traveled path. Unlike the more crowded southern routes, Rongai passes through remote wilderness areas with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas as you ascend toward the summit.
This 7-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day, greatly improving summit success rates by allowing your body to adjust gradually to higher altitudes. The route ascends through moorlands and alpine desert to the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, summits via Gilman’s Point before reaching Uhuru Peak, and then descends through the lush Marangu route—offering a full mountain traverse.
With its blend of tranquility, diverse ecosystems, and superb acclimatization profile, the Rongai Route is a top choice for both first-time climbers and experienced trekkers seeking an unforgettable adventure to the Roof of Africa.
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Tour Highlights
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Tour Summary
Day by Day Experience
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Arrival in Moshi
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our driver will be waiting to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Here you will have time to relax after your journey and meet your mountain guide for a briefing about the climb ahead. This session includes a gear check to ensure you are fully prepared with the right equipment.
The rest of the evening is free for you to unwind, explore the town at leisure, or simply rest at the hotel. Overnight accommodation is provided in a comfortable lodge on a bed and breakfast basis, giving you a good night’s sleep before your mountain adventure begins.
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Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
After breakfast, depart from Moshi and drive to the Rongai Gate, located near the Kenyan border. The trek begins in cultivated farmlands before entering a montane forest teeming with wildlife such as black-and-white colobus monkeys and colorful birds. The trail is gentle, gradually ascending through the woodland until reaching Simba Camp, positioned at the edge of the moorland zone. From camp, enjoy your first views of Kibo’s snow-capped summit.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
Continue trekking through the open moorland, with heather and giant lobelias dotting the trail. The climb is steady, offering broad views of the plains stretching into Kenya. As you gain altitude, the air becomes cooler and the vegetation more sparse. Arrive at Second Cave Camp, located beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. Spend the afternoon relaxing or taking a short acclimatization walk.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 3: Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Today’s hike leads deeper into the moorland, with increasingly rugged and wild scenery. The trail climbs steadily, and on clear days you’ll have striking views of Mawenzi’s jagged ridges. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley surrounded by scenic wilderness. This serene location offers a peaceful setting to rest and prepare for the higher altitudes ahead.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Turn Hut
A short but steep climb takes you above the vegetation zone into the alpine desert. The trail winds up grassy slopes and rocky ridges, revealing stunning views of both Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. You’ll arrive at Mawenzi Turn Hut, located beneath the dramatic cliffs of Mawenzi. The afternoon is free for rest or optional acclimatization hikes on the nearby ridges, providing excellent panoramas and helping your body adapt to the thin air.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 5: Mawenzi Turn Hut to Kibo Hut
Today’s route crosses the Saddle, a vast, barren plain separating Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The landscape is stark and moon-like, with little vegetation and strong winds. The gradual ascent provides breathtaking views as you approach Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt to Uhuru Peak.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Wake around midnight to begin the final ascent under the starry sky. The climb is slow and steady, leading to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) on the crater rim. From here, continue around the rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)—the highest point in Africa. Witness the spectacular sunrise over the African continent, celebrate your success, and capture unforgettable photos.
Afterward, descend carefully to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut, where you’ll enjoy a hearty meal and a well-deserved night’s sleep.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the heather and rainforest zones, where you may spot colobus monkeys and colorful birds. The air becomes warmer and richer in oxygen as you approach Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, sign out at the park office and receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate—a proud testament to your achievement.
Your Go Kilimanjaro Treks driver will meet you for the transfer back to Moshi, where you can relax, shower, and celebrate your successful climb.
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Day 10: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or your next destination, carrying unforgettable memories of your successful summit.
Note: The package includes Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat for pre- and post-trek stays. Clients may choose to upgrade to luxury accommodation or downgrade to budget options upon request.
