“I want to be up where the world is silent and the views serene“.

Trip Overview

The Rongai route is an amazing Kilimanjaro trail that has so many unique advantages! The route begins on the northern slope of the mountain in a beautiful coniferous forest and takes hikers through a variety of fascinating climatic zones. And now for the best bit! The descent follows the Marangu route on the southwestern side of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Firstly, it’s much less crowded than the busy southern trekking routes, which means you’ll have the mountain all to yourself! Secondly, it is amazingly scenic, offering great views on Mawenzi and Kibo – two of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones, the surrounding Tanzania landscapes, and unique flora like Kilimanjaro Giant Groundsel and tropical forests on the descent. This route offers trekkers a more exclusive and personal experience, with plenty to see along the way. Imagine awakening near the magnificent peak of Mawenzi, its rocks illuminated by the soft light of sunrise, and spotting rare bearded vultures soaring and gliding, setting their course towards the distant horizon of Kenya. This is the perfect route for those seeking a quieter, more secluded Kilimanjaro trekking adventure!

Day 1 :

Arrival to Kilimanjaro international Airport (JRO)

Welcome to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)! Here, you'll meet our friendly travel representative and then be whisked away to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. In the evening, get ready for an exciting briefing with your guide to Kilimanjaro! They'll make sure you're all set for the climb and answer any questions you may have.

Day 2 :

Trekking from Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m /6,627 f) to Simba camp (2,671 m /8,612 f)

Get ready for an amazing adventure! A guide and a mountain support crew will arrive at your hotel in the morning, and then you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro National Park's northern entrance. And now for the grand finale! We're heading to the Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m /6,627 ft). Once you've got your climbing permits and are registered, it's time to start your ascent to Simba Camp (2,671 m / 8,612 ft)! Get ready for an amazing day of trekking! You'll be hiking through the gorgeous coniferous forest up Kilimanjaro's northern slope. Just remember to take your time and enjoy the journey. By the time you reach the camp, our amazing mountain crew will have everything ready for you, from tents to dinner.
This is your first day at this altitude, so make sure you listen to our instructions to stay safe and have the best experience!

Drink at least four litres of bottled water a day.
Take a high-altitude aid to beat altitude sickness. Many mountain climbers take these pills to help reduce discomfort. It's normal to feel uncomfortable, but if you feel symptoms of altitude sickness, let your guide know.

Trekking time: 3 hours Distance: 7 km

Day 3 :

From Simba camp (2,671 m /8,612 f) to second cave Camp (3,450 m /11,319 f)

After a delicious breakfast at Simba Camp, you'll then set off on an incredible journey to Second Cave Camp (3,450 m). This fantastic three-hour route will take you to the camp, leaving you with plenty of time to explore! After lunch, you'll have the chance to relax and then get ready for an amazing acclimatisation hike! Next, get ready for an incredible trek towards Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) on the Rongai Route, where you'll gain 100 metres in altitude! Then, it's back to Second Cave Camp for an overnight stay – you'll love it!

Trekking time: 3 hours Distance: 8 km

Day 4 :

From Second cave Camp (3,450m / 11,319 f) to Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m /11,909 f)

After breakfast, get ready for an amazing day of trekking to Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m)! You'll be able to see Kibo Volcano at its finest (barring cloudy weather), so get ready to be blown away! This will be a fantastic rest day! After lunch, you'll have plenty of time to catch up on some much-needed sleep before setting off on the next exciting stage of your journey towards Mawenzi Tarn Camp. In the evening, after dinner, the guide will check everyone's health and give instructions for your next day's trekking adventure!

Trekking time: 3 hours Distance: 5 km

Day 5 :

From Kikilewa camp (3,630 m /11,909 f) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315 m /14,156 f)

Get ready for an early start with a breakfast to fuel up for the trek to Mawenzi Tarn Camp! This camp is situated at the foot of Mawenzi Volcano, Kilimanjaro's second summit. Once you reach the camp, you'll have lunch and a two-hour rest. Then, it's time for an incredible acclimatisation hike towards Mawenzi Volcano with a 200 m gain in altitude! After that, you'll hike back down to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, where you'll have dinner and spend the night.

Hiking time: 4 hours Hiking distance: 6 km

Day 6 :

From Mawenzi Tarn camp (4,315 m /14,156 f) to Kibo Camp (4,720 m / 15,486 f)

Get set for an incredible day as we embark on our journey towards Kibo Summit Camp (4,720 m)! Get ready for a truly unique landscape! You'll be treated to a rocky semi-desert that will take your breath away. The actual trekking is not very difficult at all! Just remember to stick with an appropriate pace to keep up your strength for the trek to Kilimanjaro's summit. When you reach the camp, treat yourself! Get a good night's sleep, relax, and drink lots of water. You've got an exciting night ahead! You'll be ascending Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) that very night!

Trekking time: 5 hours Distance: 9 km

Day 7 :

The summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,341 f) and the descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m / 12,204 f)

The team is set to embark on an exhilarating nighttime departure from Kibo Hut Camp, situated at 4,720 m above sea level. The trek up to Uhuru Peak is an incredible challenge for your cardiovascular system. An unforgettable climb! An expert guide will be with you every step of the way, making sure you're always ready! Reach the summit and walk on the glacier! Then descend to Horombo Camp, stopping at Kibo Camp for 2 hours. 9 out of 10 climbing accidents happen on the way down, so watch your step!

Trekking time: 12 hours Distance: 21 km

Day 8 :

Final Descent to Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,463 f )

After a hearty breakfast, it's time for the grand finale: the descent to Marangu Gate at 1,970 m! This is the perfect chance to share your amazing experiences and memories of the expedition with your incredible support crew! And now for the best bit! And now for the best bit! Before you are driven back to your hotel, you will receive your well-deserved certificates.

Trekking time: 6 hours Distance: 19 km

Day 9 :

Flight home from Kilimanjaro International Airport

It's time to head home, but don't forget to enjoy your last moments on holiday! Make the most of your last hours in Tanzania! Our driver will be coming by to pick you up and take you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Still longing for more? And there's more! You can also add a few days of safari or a beach holiday to your Kilimanjaro adventure!