7 Days Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Overview
Mount Kilimanjaro, Rongai Route, Tanzania
| 7 Days |
Max People : 100 |
Every Day |
| Min Age : 10+ |
Pickup : Airport |
Langauge - English, French, Germany, Chines |
The 7-day Rongai Route offers a unique and less-traveled path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more serene climbing experience. This route begins on the northern side of the mountain, offering a different perspective of the landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine meadows and rocky deserts.
Starting in the quiet village of Nale Moru, climbers gradually ascend through diverse ecosystems, experiencing stunning views of both the Kenyan plains and the slopes of Kilimanjaro. The route offers a steady and moderate pace, allowing for effective acclimatization while providing scenic beauty throughout. The climb leads to remote camps, offering a sense of solitude and connection with nature.
As climbers progress, they pass through heath and moorland, eventually reaching the alpine desert zone, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The 7-day Rongai Route allows for proper acclimatization, helping reduce the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring a higher success rate at the summit. The route connects with the Marangu Route at the Kibo Hut, where climbers make their final push to the top of the mountain.
The Rongai Route is less crowded compared to other routes, providing a more peaceful and less rushed experience. The support team, including expert guides, porters, and chefs, ensures trekkers are well taken care of during the journey, making it an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience. Ideal for those looking for an alternative route to the summit with stunning views, the 7-day Rongai Route offers an exceptional balance of adventure, beauty, and a higher chance of summit success.
Departure & Return Location
Moshi, Tanzania (Google Map)
Accommodation
Camping (Simba Camp, Second Cave Camp, Kikelewa Camp, Mawenzi Tarn Camp, Kibo Hut, and Horombo Hut)
Departure Time
Early Morning Start (Around 8:00 AM)
Return Time
Mid to Late Afternoon on Day 7
7 Days Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climbing Itinerary
Day 0 - Arrival in Tanzania and Transfer to Moshi
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our team will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You will have a briefing with your mountain guide, where you will receive an equipment check and final preparation tips for the climb. If time permits, you can explore Moshi town or relax at the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Not included
Day 1 - Hotel to Nale Moru Gate to Simba Camp
After breakfast, you will be driven from your hotel to the Nale Moru Gate (1,950m/6,398ft) for registration. After completing the necessary paperwork, begin your trek through the lush rainforest to Simba Camp (2,600m/8,530ft). The first day's hike is fairly gradual and provides a wonderful introduction to the unique landscapes of Kilimanjaro.
Elevation: 1,950m/6,398ft to 2,600m/8,530ft
Distance: 8km/5mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Accommodation: Simba Camp
Meals: Lunch and Dinner included
Day 2 - Simba Camp to Second Cave
After breakfast, continue your ascent from Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450m/11,318ft). The trail takes you through moorland with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy the peace and tranquility as you hike through this unique environment.
Elevation: 2,600m/8,530ft to 3,450m/11,318ft
Distance: 6km/3.7mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Second Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 3 - Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
Continue your hike today as you ascend from Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,811ft). The path traverses moorland and alpine desert, offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks. The gradual ascent helps with acclimatization, ensuring you are ready for the higher altitudes ahead.
Elevation: 3,450m/11,318ft to 3,600m/11,811ft
Distance: 6km/3.7mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 4 - Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
Today's hike takes you from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m/14,200ft). This is a short but steep section, gaining altitude quickly as you enter the alpine desert zone. Mawenzi Tarn offers beautiful views of Mawenzi Peak and is an excellent location for acclimatization and rest.
Elevation: 3,600m/11,811ft to 4,330m/14,200ft
Distance: 6km/3.7mi
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 5 - Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Today, you will continue from Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4,700m/15,419ft). This is a relatively long day as you move across the barren alpine desert zone. The hike is a steady climb that takes you into the shadows of Kibo Peak, where you'll rest at the base camp before your summit attempt.
Elevation: 4,330m/14,200ft to 4,700m/15,419ft
Distance: 9km/5.5mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 6 - Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
This is the most challenging day. You will begin your ascent to the summit in the early hours of the morning. The steep climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) will take several hours, but the views and sense of accomplishment will be worth every step. After reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic views, you will descend to Kibo Hut for a rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut (3,700m/12,139ft) for the night.
Elevation: 4,700m/15,419ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (Uhuru Peak) then down to 3,700m/12,139ft (Horombo Hut)
Distance: 17km/10.5mi (total ascent and descent)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic at the summit, then rainforest
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 7 - Horombo Hut to Trailhead to Moshi Hotel
After breakfast, descend from Horombo Hut to the Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,906ft), where you will complete your climb and sign out. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Moshi for a celebratory meal and a restful night at your hotel.
Elevation: 3,700m/12,139ft to 1,800m/5,906ft
Distance: 20km/12.4mi
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included
Table Price
| Group Size |
Estimated Price per Person (USD) |
| 2-4 Travelers |
$1,995 |
| 5-7 Travelers |
$1,870 |
| 8-10 Travelers |
$1,750 |
| Group Sharing |
$1,500 |
Price Includes
- Park entry fees (for non-residents)
- Camping fees or hut accommodation
- Professional and experienced mountain guides
- Porters to carry equipment and supplies
- All meals on the mountain
- Drinking water and hot drinks
- Return transport from Moshi/Arusha to the park gate
- Oxygen cylinder and pulse oximeter
- All government taxes and VAT
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, chairs, and tables)
Price Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Accommodation before and after the climb (unless paid)
- Personal items (e.g., gear, toiletries, snacks)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
- Additional transport services outside the itinerary
- Portable toilet rental (available on request)
- Meals not mentioned in the package
