6 Days
Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Climbing
Tour Overview
This 7-day journey along the Rongai Route offers a scenic and less-crowded approach to Kilimanjaro’s summit, Uhuru Peak. Each day, trekkers transition through Kilimanjaro’s distinct ecological zones, from lush rainforests to stark alpine deserts, providing diverse landscapes and greater acclimatization opportunities.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave
After breakfast in Moshi, we drive to Marangu Gate to register and obtain permits. A short transfer takes us to the remote Rongai Gate, located near the Kenyan border. The hike begins through farmlands of corn and potato fields, gradually entering the lush rainforest. This is a scenic and less-trafficked approach, and if lucky, you may spot wildlife like the black-and-white colobus monkeys in the trees. As we continue, the path winds up gentle slopes through towering trees, eventually leading us to Rongai Cave, our first campsite. Here, you’ll settle into your tent and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as we prepare dinner and brief you on the next day’s adventure.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2: Rongai Cave to Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
After a warm breakfast, we start the trek toward Second Cave. The trail is a gentle, steady climb through the heath zone, where shrubs and small trees replace the dense rainforest. As we reach Second Cave, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Kibo Peak and the eastern ice fields. After a short break, we continue onward, leaving the main trail to follow a smaller, more rugged path leading toward the rugged peaks of Mawenzi. The route takes us through moorland, dotted with giant lobelias and other unique alpine plants. We arrive at Kikelewa Cave, where the evening is spent with views of the stunning surrounding landscapes as you rest and acclimate for the days ahead.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft
- Distance: 6 km (4 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Heath
Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn
Today’s hike is shorter but more challenging, with a steep ascent up grassy slopes. The views expand as we climb, showcasing the unique landscape of Kilimanjaro’s higher regions. As we exit the heath zone, we enter the stark, rugged beauty of the alpine desert, where plant life becomes sparse, and the scenery is dominated by bare rocks and rugged formations. Our camp for the night, Mawenzi Tarn, sits beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak, surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. This is an ideal spot to relax, explore the nearby tarn (a small mountain lake), and adjust to the altitude. The evening is spent enjoying the solitude of this remote location, under the brilliant stars.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft
- Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge and Back
This day is reserved for acclimatization, giving you a chance to get used to the higher altitudes and prepare for the summit push. A short hike takes us up Mawenzi Ridge, where you’ll experience more of the otherworldly alpine desert landscape and enjoy awe-inspiring views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This acclimatization hike is crucial to help your body adjust, and the incredible scenery will be a memorable part of the journey. After exploring Mawenzi Ridge, we return to Mawenzi Tarn for the night, with the afternoon free to rest and further acclimate.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 14,160 ft to 14,400 ft
- Distance: 1 km (0.6 miles)
- Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Today’s trek takes us across “The Saddle,” the vast, barren stretch of land between Mawenzi and Kibo. The route is gradual but crosses a seemingly endless expanse of alpine desert, providing a dramatic and surreal experience as we make our way toward the peak. This part of the journey feels almost lunar, with a unique beauty and sense of isolation. After several hours, we reach Kibo Hut, located at the base of the Kibo crater wall. Upon arrival, we prepare for a rest, as tonight’s climb to the summit will begin at midnight. Early dinner is served, and you’ll be briefed on the summit day to ensure you’re ready for the final push to Uhuru Peak.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
- Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
We begin our summit attempt around midnight. The route is steep, challenging, and often cold as we ascend in darkness. The trail to Gilman’s Point (18,600 ft) zigzags up scree slopes, requiring focus and stamina. Upon reaching Gilman’s Point, you’re rewarded with an unforgettable sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. From here, the final stretch to Uhuru Peak is demanding but manageable, and reaching the summit will bring a sense of accomplishment and awe as you stand at the highest point in Africa. After capturing photos and taking in the view, we start our descent to Horombo Hut, where we enjoy our last night on the mountain, celebrating a successful climb with a warm meal and a well-deserved rest.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Habitat: Heath
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Our final day takes us downhill through the rainforest, retracing the path to Marangu Gate. This descent allows you to fully appreciate the rainforest’s lush surroundings, with ample opportunities to spot wildlife and unique flora. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll collect your summit certificate—a keepsake of your achievement. A vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.
Climbing Highlights
- Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
- Distance: 20 km (12 miles)
- Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Customize Your Safari
focusing on Your specific interests
At Premier Africa Adventures, we craft climbing adventures as unique as you are. Share your vision, and we’ll handle every detail from choosing the ideal route, to planning your trekking activities that fit your unique interests and schedule. Let’s bring your dream of climbing Kilimanjaro to life.
