7-Day Rongai Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. The day includes a pre-trek briefing where your guide will check your gear and discuss the upcoming adventure. You will have time to rest, explore the town, and prepare for the trek. An overnight stay at a comfortable lodge ensures you are well-rested for the challenge ahead.

Day 2: Nalemoru Gate (2,020m) to Simba Camp (2,625m)

The adventure begins with a drive to Nalemoru Gate on Kilimanjaro’s northeastern side. After completing registration, the trek starts with a gentle ascent through farmlands and pine forests. The trail offers a chance to see Colobus monkeys and other wildlife as you gradually gain altitude. By late afternoon, you arrive at Simba Camp, located near the edge of the moorland zone, where you will settle in for the night under the stars.

Day 3: Simba Camp (2,625m) to Second Cave (3,450m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

The trek continues with a steady climb towards Second Cave, offering spectacular views of the Kenyan plains below. After a short rest, the journey heads towards Kikelewa Camp through open moorland, with stunning scenery surrounding you. The night is spent at Kikelewa Camp, which sits in a sheltered valley with giant Senecio plants creating a surreal landscape.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m)

The climb becomes steeper as you leave the moorland behind and approach the alpine desert zone. A short but demanding trek brings you to Mawenzi Tarn, a breathtaking campsite nestled beneath the rugged spires of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is spent resting or taking a short acclimatization hike around the area. This is one of the most scenic campsites on the mountain, offering incredible sunset views.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m) to Kibo Hut (4,720m)

Today’s trek takes you across the lunar-like landscape of the Saddle, a vast desert plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain is barren, but the views of Kilimanjaro’s summit are incredibly inspiring. By early afternoon, you reach Kibo Hut, the base camp for your final ascent. After an early dinner, you rest in preparation for the challenging summit attempt that begins just before midnight.

Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,720m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Summit night begins in the early hours of the morning with a steep climb up to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. The final push to Uhuru Peak is a slow and steady ascent, rewarding you with breathtaking sunrise views over Africa. Standing at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable achievement. After celebrating and capturing photos, the descent begins back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut. The long descent is tiring but filled with a sense of accomplishment as you return to lower altitudes.

Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Departure

The final day on the mountain takes you through the lush rainforest as you descend to Marangu Gate. The lower altitude and oxygen-rich air make the walk easier as you reflect on the incredible journey. At the gate, you receive your summit certificates before transferring back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest at the hotel. In the evening, you can celebrate your achievement or relax before your departure the next day.