Kilimanjaro | Rongai Route

We book your flight individually according to your desired place of departure, or you arrange your own international flights. You will be greeted by our staff at Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha, Tanzania. From there we will provide transportation directly to the hotel.

Day two begins with a generous breakfast while we hold our team briefing. From the hotel or lodge, a private bus takes you through a region of lush vegetation, coffee, and banana plantations to the north side of Kilimanjaro. The journey continues through the forest area to Nale Moru, the starting point for the climb. A narrow path along the corn and potato fields leads into forests and with a bit of luck, we can observe wild animals there. Finally, we leave the forest area and reach the camp at the transition from the woodland to the moorland near the first Rongai cave.

Drive: approx. 3 hours
Hike: 2 hours.
Accommodation: in tent / full board
Height: 2,600m / 8,530 ft

The trail ascends steadily to the second Rongai cave (3,450m / 11,320 ft), revealing occasional small caves sculpted by ancient lava flows. Following a satisfying lunch, we veer off the main path, trekking through expansive moorlands towards Mawenzi. Eventually, we arrive at our campsite near the Kikelewa Caves (3rd cave), nestled within a sheltered valley adorned with giant groundsels.

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Accommodation: Tent / full board
Elevation: 3,600m / 11,810 ft

Embark on the fourth day, where we'll tackle a short yet challenging ascent to our camp near Mawenzi Tarn. The trail winds through grass-covered slopes, transitioning into a high alpine landscape with sparse vegetation. As we reach higher elevations, a breathtaking panoramic view unfolds, rewarding our efforts with stunning vistas. Nestled beside the serene Mawenzi Tarn, we set up camp amidst the imposing rock formations of Mawenzi "the dark" (5,149 m / 16,893 ft), Kilimanjaro's second-highest peak, and its towering neighbour Kibo "the light" (5,895 m / 19,341 ft), the highest peak.

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Tent / full board
Elevation: 4,300m / 14,100 ft

Enjoy a well-deserved rest day at the picturesque Mawenzi Tarn campsite. Take the time to acclimatise and rejuvenate amidst the breathtaking surroundings. For those feeling adventurous, optional short hikes are available, offering captivating views of the Mawenzi peak.

Activities: Short hikes or rest day
Accommodation: Tent / full board
Elevation: 4,300m / 14,100 ft

Embark on the journey to Kibo Huts, traversing a desert-like plain that resembles a lunar landscape. The trail winds over the saddle between Mawenzi and Kilimanjaro, leading us to our next camp at School Hut. Upon arrival, preparations for the summit ascent the following day will commence, ensuring everything is in order. After an early dinner, we retire for an early night's rest, readying ourselves for the summit push shortly after midnight.

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Tent / full board
Elevation: 4,800m / 15,750 ft

Summit Day: At midnight, it's time to rise and embark on our journey to the summit. With headlamps illuminating the path ahead, our group sets out at a steady pace, guided by our local experts and expedition leader. Each team member is in constant communication, ensuring safety and support throughout the ascent. The trail begins with a gradual climb over gravel terrain, gradually steepening as we approach Gilman's Point (5,685 m / 18,652 ft). From here, the route follows the outer rim of the summit plateau, offering forgiving terrain as we make our way to the highest point in Africa - Uhuru Peak!

It takes approximately 4-6 hours to reach Gilman's Point and another 1-2 hours to reach Uhuru Peak. After celebrating our achievement at the summit, we begin our descent, taking 2-3 hours to reach Kibo Hut for a well-deserved lunch break and rest. The journey continues for another 1-2 hours to our campsite at 3,950m / 12,950 ft, where we'll rest and reflect on our incredible accomplishment.

Total Hiking Time: Approximately 9-12 hours
Accommodation: Tent / full board
Summit Elevation: 5,895m / 19,341 ft
Camp Elevation: 3,950m / 12,950 ft

On this final day of our journey, a leisurely descent awaits, offering ample opportunity to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and capture memorable photographs. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, we bid farewell to our guides and porters, expressing our gratitude for their unwavering support throughout the expedition. A well-deserved tip is customary (provided you are satisfied with their contribution) reflecting our appreciation for their dedication.

Following the sign-out process at the visitors' logbook, we embark on a short drive to our hotel. Here, in recognition of our summit success, each participant receives a certificate from the National Park, commemorating their achievement. With the afternoon and evening at our disposal, we indulge in relaxation and celebrate the unforgettable journey we've undertaken.

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Drive Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Accommodation: Three-star hotel / bed and breakfast

We say our goodbyes and depart for our respective destinations. Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and your flight home – arrival at your destination is most likely to be the morning of the following day.

Alternatively, organisation of the follow-up program (e.g. Safari or Zanzibar).