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 renowned for its unique perspective, offering trekkers a less crowded and more serene ascent. Here’s a comprehensive overview of your Kilimanjaro adventure, including arrival, a 7-day itinerary, and departure details.
Day 1: Arrival at JRO
Your Kilimanjaro expedition starts with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon arrival, our experienced team will warmly welcome you, signaling the beginning of your Tanzanian adventure. We’ll ensure your seamless transfer to your accommodation in Arusha. This arrival day offers a vital opportunity for rest, acclimatization, and a thorough pre-climb briefing to ready 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, proceed with your journey from Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp. The hike, lasting approximately 6 to 7 hours, guides you through the moorland zone as you ascend to an elevation of 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). Your overnight accommodation awaits at Kikelewa Camp.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330m)
On Day 4, you’ll encounter captivating landscapes as you trek from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut. This segment of the journey presents breathtaking vistas of Mawenzi Peak. You’ll ascend to 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 embark on short hikes to higher elevations. This day aids in allowing your body to adjust to the escalating altitude, a crucial step for summit success.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Commence Day 6 by leaving from Mawenzi Tarn Hut and ascending towards Kibo Hut, your last base camp before the summit push. Situated at an elevation of 4,700 meters (15,419 feet), Kibo Hut provides a strategic location for the summit attempt. Anticipate a 4 to 5-hour hike on this day.
Day 7: Summit Day - Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 7 marks the pinnacle of your adventure as you embark on the summit attempt. You’ll either rise late on Day 6 or early the following day, depending on your pace. The ascent will take you through challenging scree slopes and past Gilman’s Point (5,681 meters or 18,638 feet) on the crater rim. Ultimately, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters or 19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa, where you’ll celebrate your remarkable achievement. Following this, begin 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 last stretch of your incredible journey will lead you from Horombo Hut to the Marangu Gate (1,860 meters or 6,102 feet). At the gate, your achievement will be commemorated 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 triumph on Mount Kilimanjaro before departing from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). This journey will weave the magnificence of Mount Kilimanjaro into the tapestry of your life, leaving an indelible mark.
