7 Days Rongai Route
Tour Overview
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route offers an extraordinary journey to the summit of Africa’s highest peak, Uhuru Peak, standing at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. The Rongai Route is celebrated for its unique perspective, providing trekkers with a less crowded and more tranquil ascent. Here’s an in-depth overview of your Kilimanjaro adventure, including arrival, a 7-day itinerary, and departure details.
Day 1: Arrival at JRO
Your Kilimanjaro expedition begins with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon landing, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our experienced team, marking the commencement of your Tanzanian adventure. We’ll ensure your smooth transfer to your accommodation in Arusha. This arrival day provides a crucial period for rest, acclimatization, and a comprehensive pre-climb briefing to prepare you for the ascent.
Day 2: Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,650m)
Your Kilimanjaro journey commences at the Rongai Gate (1,950 meters or 6,398 feet). On Day 2, you’ll register, meet your seasoned guides, and joining on a captivating hike through the lush rainforests. The trail is teeming with unique flora and fauna. Your first night will be spent at Simba Camp (2,650 meters or 8,694 feet).
Day 3: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)
On Day 3, continue your journey from Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp. The hike, lasting around 6 to 7 hours, takes you through the moorland zone, where you’ll ascend to an elevation of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). Kikelewa Camp awaits you for your overnight stay.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330m)
Day 4 presents captivating landscapes as you journey from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut. This leg of the trek offers stunning vistas of Mawenzi Peak. You’ll reach an elevation of 4,330 meters (14,206 feet) and spend the night at Mawenzi Tarn Hut.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330m)
Day 5 is designated for acclimatization at Mawenzi Tarn Hut. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area or take short hikes to higher elevations. This day helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude, an essential step for summit success.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Begin Day 6 by departing from Mawenzi Tarn Hut and ascending toward Kibo Hut, your final base camp before the summit push. At an elevation of 4,700 meters (15,419 feet), Kibo Hut offers a strategic location for the summit attempt. Expect a 4 to 5-hour hike on this day.
Day 7: Summit Day - Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 7 is the pinnacle of your adventure as you join on the summit attempt. You’ll rise either late on Day 6 or early on the following day, depending on your pace. The ascent will lead you through challenging scree slopes and past Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters or 18,638 feet) on the crater rim. Finally, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters or 19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa, where you’ll celebrate your remarkable achievement. Afterward, commence the descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters or 12,205 feet).
Day 8: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m) and Departure
The final leg of your incredible journey will guide you from Horombo Hut to the Marangu Gate (1,860 meters or 6,102 feet). At the gate, your accomplishment will be celebrated with a summit certificate, a testament to your indomitable spirit.
Day 9: Departure
The adventure concludes with a transfer back to Arusha, where you can reflect on your Kilimanjaro triumph before your departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This journey will etch the magnificence of Mount Kilimanjaro into your life’s tapestry, leaving an indelible mark.
