The Rongai Route offers a unique approach to summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, with several variations available, including five, six, and seven-day treks. The six and seven-day options are particularly advantageous for acclimatization and include a scenic detour to Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most picturesque campsites on the mountain. This itinerary outlines the six-day trek, including the detour via Mawenzi Tarn.
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Moshi
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative. After a brief introduction and a refreshing bottle of mineral water, you will be transferred directly to your hotel in Moshi, where you can rest and settle in. Hours later, our Kilimanjaro team will meet you at the hotel to provide a detailed briefing about your upcoming trek, ensuring you are well-prepared. Your stay for the night comes with a bed and breakfast the next day.
Day 2: Nalemoru (1,950 m / 6,400 ft) to First Cave Campsite (2,650 m / 8,700 ft)
- Walking Distance: 6.5 km / 4 miles
- Walking Time: 3-4 hours
- Altitude Gain: 700 m / 2,300 ft
Your journey begins at Nalemoru, where you will start trekking through farmland and pine forests. The trail gradually ascends, leading you to the First Cave Campsite. At this campsite, surrounded by the tranquility of nature, you will enjoy your first night on the mountain.
Day 3: First Cave Campsite to Kikelewa Caves (3,600 m / 11,810 ft)
- Walking Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
- Walking Time: 6-7 hours
- Altitude Gain: 950 m / 3,110 ft
You will continue the ascent with a steady climb towards the Second Cave, offering expansive views of Kibo’s snow-capped summit. The trail winds through moorland, leading to the Kikelewa Caves, where you’ll camp for the night amidst the dramatic landscape.
Day 4: Kikelewa Caves to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m / 14,210 ft)
- Walking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
- Walking Time: 3-4 hours
- Altitude Gain: 730 m / 2,400 ft
This hike brings you closer to Mawenzi Peak as you make your way to the stunning Mawenzi Tarn, nestled in a cirque beneath the towering Mawenzi. After setting up camp, you will have the opportunity for an afternoon acclimatization walk, reaching an altitude of approximately 4,500 m / 14,760 ft.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Huts (4,700 m / 15,420 ft)
- Walking Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
- Walking Time: 4-5 hours
- Altitude Gain: 370 m / 1,215 ft
Cross the barren saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, a high-altitude desert landscape. The trail leads you to Kibo Huts, situated directly below the imposing Kibo massif. Spend the evening resting and preparing for the summit attempt.
Day 6: Summit Attempt via Gilman’s Point (5,700 m / 18,700 ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 ft) and Descent to Horombo Huts (3,700 m / 12,200 ft)
- Walking Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles ascent + 15 km / 9.3 miles descent
- Walking Time: 5-6 hours ascent + 1-2 hours to Uhuru Peak, 5-6 hours descent (overall walking time may vary from 10-16 hours)
- Altitude Gain: 1,000 m / 3,280 ft to Gilman’s Point, 1,195 m / 3,920 ft to Uhuru Peak
- Descent: 2,195 m / 7,200 ft
You will begin your summit attempt in the early morning hour by ascending to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. From here, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After reaching the summit, descend back to Kibo Huts for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Huts.
Day 7: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate
- Walking Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles
- Walking Time: 5 hours
- Descent: 1,840 m / 6,040 ft
On your final day, you will descend through the moorland and rainforest zones to Marangu Gate. This long but rewarding trek concludes your Kilimanjaro adventure. From the gate, a short drive will take you back to Moshi.
Day 8: Airport Drop-Off
Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Safe travels, and we hope you have enjoyed your Kilimanjaro adventure!
Price includes:
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Mountain and Safari Special Camping fees
- X6 nights Full board Accommodation on the Mountain
- X2 night BB Accommodation at Kili wonders Hotel in Moshi
- Mountain Camping facilities tents, table, chairs, mess tent
- Mountain Rescue fees
- Mountain and Safari Guides
- Crew of Porters and Chef
- Evacuation fees (Flying Doctor)
- Local government taxes
- Transfers to and from the mountain gate
- clean water daily
- Lunch boxes
Price excludes:
- International, and Local airfare & Visa fees
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- All items of a personal nature e.g. telephones
- Sleeping bag
- Personal trekking gears