- +255 762 704 704
- +255 762 704 704
- info@ecosafarisafrica.com
The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, offering a remote, scenic, and dry trail with excellent views and fewer climbers.
This 7-day itinerary includes a critical acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn to improve summit success and provide a balanced trekking experience. Perfect for those seeking solitude, diverse landscapes, and a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.
7 Days / 6 Nights
Mountain Trekking
Nalemoru Gate, Simba Camp, Second Cave Camp, Kikelewa Camp, Mawenzi Tarn Camp, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak, Horombo Hut and Marangu Gate
English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Chinese
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Montane Forest
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Moshi or Arusha to Nalemoru Gate, where registration is completed. The trek starts through cultivated fields and gradually enters a lush montane forest, home to birds, monkeys, and dense vegetation. The trail climbs gently to Simba Camp, located on the edge of the moorland zone with open views over the Kenyan plains.
Trekking Tip: Keep a slow, steady pace (pole pole) to help your body adapt to altitude changes from the start.
Meals Plan: Full Board
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: Heath/Moorland
Today’s trek leads you through heather and moorland as the forest thins. You’ll notice giant lobelias and unique alpine plants dotting the landscape. The route continues steadily uphill with views of Kibo Peak beginning to emerge. Second Cave Camp offers a broad view of the eastern slopes of Kilimanjaro and surrounding wilderness.
Trekking Tip: Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine; altitude begins to have a noticeable effect here.
Meals Plan: Full Board
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Zone: Moorland
After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll veer off the main trail and head towards Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s rugged secondary peak. The landscape becomes more open, with fewer trees and more volcanic rocks. Kikelewa Camp is nestled in a sheltered valley surrounded by scenic ridges and towering cliffs.
Trekking Tip: This shorter day allows your body to rest and further adapt. Use the afternoon to explore nearby ridges if you’re feeling strong.
Meals Plan: Full Board
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
Today’s trail is steeper and more rugged, leading you into the alpine desert zone with stunning views of the sharp spires of Mawenzi Peak. The air becomes thinner and cooler. You’ll arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, one of the most picturesque camps on the mountain, located beside a small glacial lake at the base of Mawenzi.
Trekking Tip: This is a key acclimatization point—rest well and take short walks to aid your adjustment.
Meals Plan: Full Board
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Zone: Alpine Desert
The trail today crosses the wide Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, a dramatic and barren moonscape. It’s a gradual ascent but the altitude can make it feel demanding. You’ll reach Kibo Hut by early afternoon. This is your base for summit night—rest, hydrate, and prepare mentally for the early start.
Trekking Tip: Avoid heavy meals, drink plenty of water, and organize your summit gear before sleeping early.
Meals Plan: Full Board
Distance: ~20 km
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Zone: Arctic to Moorland
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is steep and mentally challenging, involving switchbacks over volcanic scree. From Gilman’s, it’s a gradual but breathless walk along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate briefly, take photos, then begin your descent back to Kibo for a short rest and onward to Horombo Hut for overnight.
Trekking Tip: This is the toughest day—move slowly, stay focused, and follow your guide’s pace.
Meals Plan: Half Board
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Zone: Moorland to Rainforest
Your final descent takes you through moorland and into the lush Montane Forest, with sounds of birds and sightings of monkeys as you return to lower altitudes. At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your Kilimanjaro climbing certificate. A vehicle will take you back to your hotel for a warm shower and a celebratory meal.
Trekking Tip: Use trekking poles to ease the pressure on your knees during descent.
Meals Plan: Full Board
AICC Plot, Block "3" Sekei, P.O. Box 1302, Arusha, Tanzania
+255 762 704 704
info@ecosafarisafrica.com
Shangarai, Mkapa Street, Plot 814 Block “B”, House No 426 P.O. Box 1302, Arusha, Tanzania
+255 762 704 704
info@ecosafarisafrica.com
