7 Days Rongai Route – Mount Kilimanjaro Climb

After breakfast at your hotel, we depart from Moshi and drive to Marangu Gate for registration. We then proceed to the Rongai trailhead. The hike begins through farmland and rainforest where black-and-white colobus monkeys may be spotted. The trail steadily ascends to Rongai Cave where we camp for the night.

• Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft

• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

We start the day with a gradual ascent to Second Cave with great views of Kibo. We break for lunch, then leave the main path and head toward the jagged Mawenzi peak. As we approach Kikelewa Cave, the vegetation becomes more sparse, offering wide views of the landscape.

• Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,811 ft

• Distance: 12 km / 8 miles

• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

• Habitat: Heath

Today’s hike is short but steep, ascending grassy slopes with impressive views behind us. The route leads to the foot of Mawenzi’s towering spires. We camp at Mawenzi Tarn nestled beneath the rugged cliffs. The afternoon is free to rest or explore.

• Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft

• Distance: 5 km / 3 miles

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

A crucial acclimatization day. We hike to Mawenzi Ridge, offering panoramic views of both Mawenzi and Kibo. The trail is not technical, and the surrounding landscape is spectacular. We return to Mawenzi Tarn for the evening.

• Elevation: 14,160 ft – 14,400 ft – 14,160 ft

• Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles round trip

• Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

We trek across the desolate “Saddle” – a wide expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain resembles a lunar landscape. Arriving at Kibo Hut, we rest and prepare for the summit attempt. An early dinner and sleep are essential for the next day.

• Elevation: 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft

• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

We start before midnight, ascending slowly in the dark toward Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft), where we witness a spectacular sunrise. From here, it's another hour to Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, we descend to Kibo for lunch, then continue to Horombo Hut for our final overnight on the mountain.

• Ascent: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft – 6 km / 4 miles – 6–8 hrs

• Descent: 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft – 16 km / 10 miles – 4–5 hrs

• Habitat: Arctic to Heath

A long descent through the lush rainforest takes us to Marangu Gate. After receiving summit certificates and farewells to the mountain crew, we drive back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration.

• Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft

• Distance: 20 km / 12 miles

• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest