Overview
The Rongai Route is one of the easiest routes with a high success rate. Starting on the north side of Kilimanjaro, just south of the Kenyan border, it is one of the least traveled routes. The descent is via the Marangu Route on the south side, offering climbers varied views of the mountain. The drive to the trailhead takes about 2.5 hours from Moshi, passing through villages and coffee plantations, with a stop to register climbing permits at Marangu. The Rongai Route can also be accessed from Amboseli National Park in Kenya, allowing for a 2-hour drive, including the border crossing. We will need copies of passports in advance.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Simba Camp
Drive to the attractive village of Nale Moru (2 hours, including a permit stop at Marangu). After signing in and preparing porters, begin your hike on a wide path through fields of maize and potatoes, entering pine forest. The track climbs consistently but gently, transitioning into forest with wildlife sightings. The first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone, with views over the Kenyan plains.
Elevation: 2,000m/6,560ft to 2,650m/8,700ft
Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
The morning hike involves a steady ascent to Second Cave, offering superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
Elevation: 2,650m/8,700ft to 3,450m/11,300ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
Cross the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios nearby.
Elevation: 3,450m/11,300ft to 3,600m/11,800ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind as you approach Mawenzi Tarn, situated directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon resting or exploring for better acclimatization.
Elevation: 3,600m/11,800ft to 4,330m/14,200ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the base of the Kibo crater wall. Rest during the remainder of the day in preparation for the final ascent.
Elevation: 4,330m/14,200ft to 4,750m/15,600ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
Begin your ascent to the summit around midnight, tackling steep scree or snow to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. Continue ascending to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After capturing the breathtaking views, descend to Kibo for lunch, then continue down to Horombo Hut.
Elevation: 4,700m/15,500ft to 5,895m/19,340ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Trailhead to Moshi Hotel
After breakfast, descend through moorland to the Mandara Hut, then through the forest path to the Marangu Gate. The descent can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are recommended. At lower elevations, shorts and t-shirts should be sufficient, but keep rain gear handy. From the gate, you will be driven back to your hotel in Moshi (1-hour drive).
Elevation: 3,700m/12,200ft to 1,700m/5,500ft
Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

• All transfers to the mountain and back to your hotel in Arusha
• Professional, experienced mountain guides
• Salaries and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks
• Quality, waterproof, four-season tents (twin sharing)
• Sleeping mattress
• Emergency oxygen cylinder
• All meals on the mountain
• Quality mess tents with table and chairs
• Large portions of fresh, nutritious food
• Clean, purified drinking water
• Conservation fees (part of park fees)
• Camping or hut fees (part of park fees)
• Rescue fees (part of park fees)
• VAT (18% charged by the government)

Exclusions

• Tanzania Visa
• International and domestic flights
• Tips and gratuities
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)