Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climb

Day 1 – Moshi to Rongai Gate

After a hearty breakfast, drive to the Rongai Gate (approximately 3-4 hours), the starting point of your trek. Here, your guides and porters will assist you with registration before beginning the trek through the forest. As you ascend, you will pass through the lush, green environment of the rainforest. Your first night will be spent camping at First Cave (2,600 m), where you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the mountain.

Day 2 – First to second cave

After breakfast, begin your hike through moorland and alpine meadows, with occasional views of Kibo Peak. You will cross a few streams before reaching Second Cave (3,450 m), where you will camp for the night. The trek today is relatively moderate, giving you time to adjust to the altitude. The surrounding views of the mountain are spectacular, offering great photo opportunities.

Day 3 – Second Cave to kikelewa Cave

Today’s hike will be through rocky terrain with scenic views of the surrounding plains. The climb to Kikelewa Cave (3,600 m) takes you higher into the moorland zone, with a great view of the eastern ice fields. Enjoy a restful afternoon at camp, where you can acclimatize and admire the beautiful surroundings. The altitude will start to feel more noticeable, so ensure you stay hydrated and take your time with each step.

Day 4 – Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

Today’s trek will take you to Mawenzi Tarn (4,300 m), located beneath the dramatic Mawenzi Peak. This hike offers stunning panoramic views and an excellent chance to acclimatize further. The terrain shifts as you leave the mountains behind and head into more rugged landscapes. After setting up camp, you’ll have a chance to rest and take in the breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding valleys.

Day 5 – Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo hut

After breakfast, embark on a challenging hike toward Kibo Hut (4,700 m), located on the saddle between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The landscape here is stark and barren, offering a dramatic contrast to the lush forests of lower altitudes. Once at the hut, you'll have time to relax and prepare for the final ascent. The guides will provide final instructions, and you’ll have an early dinner before heading to bed for an early start the next morning.

Day 6 – Summit Attempt & Descent

This is where the going gets really tough! Just before midnight, you will venture into the night and begin your final ascent to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Head northwest through the heavy stone scree following multiple switchbacks until you reach Hans Meyer Cave (5,258 m) and then Gillman’s Point (5,719 m). This section is probably the most challenging part of the route and will require great physical and mental effort. Continue to move slowly, always listening to your guide.

After a short rest at Gillman’s Point, you will hike along the crater rim for another hour before reaching your ultimate goal Uhuru Peak! Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you will be able to spend there, but it is important to start your descent within good time to ensure you get enough rest back at Kibo Huts. After your rest, you’ll gather the rest of your belongings and descend to Horombo Huts, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a well-earned sleep!

Day 7 – Horombo to Marangu Gate

After eating breakfast, you will begin the easiest part of your adventure on Mount Kilimanjaro via a scenic path through the forest to Marangu Gate. Successful hikers who made it to Gillman’s Point and Uhuru Peak will be awarded their certificates at the gate. Then it’s time to drive back to Moshi for drop off at your booked hotel