7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Rongai Route

7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Rongai Route

The 7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via the Rongai Route offers an unforgettable adventure through one of the most scenic and less crowded paths up Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting from the northern side of the mountain, the Rongai Route is known for its unique landscapes, wildlife, and high success rate, making it a popular choice for climbers of all levels. This route is considered easier than others, and while a typical trek takes 6 days, you can choose to add an extra acclimatization day, making it a more relaxed 7-day climb.

Why Choose the Rongai Route?

The Rongai Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s least traveled paths, giving you the opportunity to experience the mountain’s tranquility and beauty without the crowds found on other routes like Marangu. Unlike the Marangu route, where you’ll sleep in huts, the Rongai Route features tented camps, where your tent will be set up for you by the porters at the end of each trekking day. This climb offers stunning views of the mountain, diverse ecosystems, and a unique chance to experience the majestic Mawenzi Peak. The route joins the Marangu route at the summit, offering a variety of vistas from multiple viewpoints.

Itinerary Overview

Day 0: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Enjoy a restful night and a briefing on your upcoming climb.

Day 1: Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

• Elevation: 1,950 m to 2,750 m
• Distance: 9 km
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest

After an early breakfast, we’ll drive through villages and coffee plantations to reach the Rongai Gate (1,950 m). Once registered, you’ll begin your trek through forested paths, home to a variety of wildlife, before reaching Simba Camp at 2,600 m, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Kenyan plains.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

• Elevation: 2,750 m to 3,600 m
• Distance: 17 km
• Hiking Time: 7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek takes you across moorland, heading toward the Mawenzi side of Kilimanjaro. After a steady ascent, you’ll arrive at Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley, where you can relax and enjoy a hot meal before overnighting in camp.

Day 3: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut

• Elevation: 3,600 m to 4,330 m
• Distance: 7 km
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Habitat: Semi-desert

Prepare for a short but steep climb up grassy slopes, rewarded with amazing views across the wilderness. After reaching Mawenzi Tarn, situated below the towering Mawenzi Peak, you’ll rest here and enjoy lunch before heading to Mawenzi Turn Hut for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day (Optional for 6-Day Itinerary)

This day is designed for acclimatization. You’ll enjoy a short hike towards Mawenzi Peak, followed by lunch and rest at the Mawenzi Tarn Hut. Taking this extra day can significantly improve your chances of success at the summit.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Huts Camp

• Elevation: 4,330 m to 4,695 m
• Distance: 8 km
• Hiking Time: 5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek will take you through the lunar desert-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll arrive at Kibo Huts, where you’ll rest and prepare for your summit ascent the following day.

Day 6: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Huts

• Elevation: 4,695 m to 5,895 m to 3,690 m
• Distance: 4 km up, 14 km down
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Wake up at midnight for the ascent to Uhuru Peak. The goal is to reach the summit just after sunrise to experience the awe-inspiring views of the Kilimanjaro crater and its ice caps. After taking in the sights and snapping photos, you’ll begin your descent back to Kibo Huts for a rest, before continuing down to Horombo Huts for the night.

Day 7: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate to Moshi

• Elevation: 3,690 m to 1,830 m
• Distance: 18 km
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

On the final day, you’ll descend through lush forest to the Marangu Gate, where you’ll sign out and receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi for celebration and rest.

What’s Included

• Park fees and camping fees
• Rescue fees
• 18% VAT on services
• Transportation to and from the mountain gate
• Experienced mountain guides, cooks, and porters
• Three meals a day while on the mountain
• Filtered water throughout the trek
• Accommodation before and after the trek (2 nights in Moshi with breakfast)
• Pick-up and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport

What’s Not Included

• International and national flights
• Medical insurance
• Visa fees ($50 USD, $100 USD for US and Canadian passport holders)
• Tips for the mountain crew
• Personal items (e.g., toiletries, snacks)
• Laundry services
• Alcoholic beverages
• Portable flush toilet ($100 extra)

Why Book with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures is dedicated to offering high-end, eco-friendly experiences in Tanzania. With years of experience and excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, we specialize in creating unforgettable safaris and mountain climbing adventures. From gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking to Big Five safaris and mountain hikes, we’re committed to preserving biodiversity, supporting local communities, and delivering the best African experiences. Contact us today to start planning your 7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Rongai Route!