The best Seven-(7)-Days Rongai Kilimanjaro’s Climbing full itinerary for 2025-2026
The best Seven-(7)-Days Rongai Kilimanjaro’s Climbing full itinerary for 2025-2026
The best Seven-(7)-Days Rongai Kilimanjaro’s Climbing full itinerary for 2025-2026 is known for being one of the quieter and less crowded routes on Kilimanjaro, approaching from the north near the Kenyan border. It offers stunning views and a more gradual ascent, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a less challenging route to the summit while still enjoying the incredible landscapes.
The best Seven-(7)-Days Rongai Kilimanjaro’s Climbing full itinerary for 2025-2026 : Day by day itinarary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Transfer: To your hotel in Arusha/Moshi, where you will meet your guide for a pre-climb briefing. You’ll relax and prepare for your trek.
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi.
Day 2: Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,600m)
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
After breakfast, you’ll drive to the Rongai Gate on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The trek begins with a gentle ascent through fields and montane forest, where you might spot wildlife like colobus monkeys. You’ll reach Simba Camp, set in a tranquil spot on the edge of the moorland zone.
Day 3: Simba Camp (2,600m) to Second Cave Camp (3,450m)
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
The trail continues upward through the moorland zone, offering panoramic views of Kenya’s plains below. The hike is gradual but steady, with spectacular views of Kibo Peak. You’ll arrive at Second Cave Camp, a great spot for acclimatization with stunning views of the eastern ice fields.
Day 4: Second Cave Camp (3,450m) to Kikelelwa Camp (3,600m)
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Today’s trek leads you through the moorland to the dramatic landscape surrounding Kikelelwa Camp. You’ll pass through areas with towering giant heathers and stunning views of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest peak. Upon arrival at Kikelelwa Camp, the afternoon is free to rest and acclimatize.
Day 5: Kikelelwa Camp (3,600m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
You’ll begin a steeper climb today as you leave the moorland zone behind and enter the alpine desert. The trail becomes rockier as you approach Mawenzi Tarn Camp, which is nestled at the base of the imposing Mawenzi Peak. This scenic camp offers incredible views and a great location to further acclimatize before your summit attempt.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today, you’ll cross the barren Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The landscape becomes stark and desolate as you ascend to Kibo Hut, the base camp for your summit attempt. You’ll arrive in the afternoon, with time to rest and prepare for the early morning push to the summit.
Day 7: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Distance: 19 km (5 km ascent, 14 km descent)
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours (6-8 hours to Uhuru, 4-6 hours descent)
Habitat: Arctic (Summit), Alpine Desert (Descent)
You’ll start the final summit push around midnight, ascending the steep scree slope to Gillman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From here, you’ll continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the sunrise and incredible views, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 8: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,880m)
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest
The final day of descent takes you through the moorland and back into the lush rainforest zone. You’ll reach Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to your team. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Departure
Departure: After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight, or you can extend your stay with a safari or beach holiday.
Highlights of the Rongai Route:
Scenic approach from the northern side, less crowded.
Beautiful views of Kenya and the eastern ice fields.
Excellent opportunities for acclimatization with gradual ascent.
Cross the stunning Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo.
Conquer Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
This 7-day itinerary provides a perfect balance of adventure, challenge, and acclimatization, giving you the best chance for a successful and enjoyable summit experience.
Includes:
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
- Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
- Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
- Airport Transfers
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water and Full Board Meals
- All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Gate Transfers
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
- Quality Imported Equipments
Excludes:
- Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation
- Gamow Bag
- Medication
- Tips for porters and mountain crew (20% Industry Standard Recommended)
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
- Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain $150 per room
