Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climb

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Known for its remote and tranquil paths, it offers an authentic wilderness experience with fewer crowds and breathtaking scenery all the way to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). This route is ideal for climbers looking for a gradual ascent and high summit success rate.

Tour Highlights

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Arrival in Arusha
Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, meet your guide holding a sign, and transfer to a comfortable hotel in Arusha. Use the afternoon to rest, enjoy the lively town atmosphere and go through a trekking briefing, equipment check and final packing before heading into the wild tomorrow.

  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 1: Rongai Start Point (1996m) – Simba camp (2626m)

Hiking time: 4 hours
Distance: Approximately 6.7 km
Habitat: Forest (Montane)

Depart from Arusha town and drive 2hrs 30 minutes to the Marangu park gate for registration. From there, we travel to Naro Moru, northeast Kilimanjaro, a further 68km and approximately 2 hours to the Rongai start point (1996m). The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then climbs gently through a forest to Simba Camp (2,626m).

Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Day 2: Simba Camp (2626m) – Kikelewa Camp (3679m)

Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Distance: Approximately 11.8 km
Habitat: Moorlands

We hike from Simba Camp up towards Kibo till 3,482m for lunch at First Caves. After lunch, we continue trekking to Kikelewa Camp (3,679m). The views open up and you begin to feel you’re on a truly grand mountain!

Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Day 3: Kikelewa Cave (3679m) – Mawenzi Tarn camp (4303m)

Hiking time: 3 hours
Distance: Approximately 3.7 km
Habitat: Moorlands

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before reaching Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi.

Kikelewa to Mawenzi Tarn
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn camp (4303m) – Kibo Hut (4730m)

Hiking time: 5 hours
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

After breakfast, we head west ascending on the east side of Kibo across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The day ends with rest and preparation for the final midnight ascent to the summit.

Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Day 5: Kibo Hut (4730m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo Hut (3705m)

Hiking time: 7–8 hours ascent, 6–8 hours descent
Distance: 5.4 km ascent, 15 km descent
Habitat: Stone scree / ice-cap summit

We begin before midnight, ascending to Gillman’s Point (5,681m) and on to Uhuru Peak — Africa’s highest point! After celebrating, descend to Horombo Hut for overnight rest.

Summit Day – Uhuru Peak
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3705m) – Marangu Gate (1860m)

Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 19.7 km
Habitat: Moorland & Montane Forest

Descend through Mandara Hut to Marangu Gate, where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Return to Arusha for a well-earned celebration and rest.

Horombo to Marangu Gate
Day 8: Beach holiday/safari/Home

Extend with a safari and fly to Zanzibar or taken to the airport and board your flight home . This will all depend on your schedule and anything can be arranged through Walking Tanzania

Horombo to Marangu Gate
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Most travellers require a tourist visa, obtainable on arrival or online via e‑Visa. Check latest entry requirements.
What is the best season to climb?
The best seasons are June–October and December–March for clear skies and stable weather conditions.
How fit should I be for the trek?+
Moderate fitness is sufficient. The climb is not technically extreme but requires stamina for long hours and steep sections.
What equipment do I need?+
Essentials include trekking boots, warm layers, waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, trekking poles, and a daypack. Sleeping bags may be provided but check with your operator.
Is there porter / support crew?+
Yes — Most climbs include a guide, a cook and porters to carry your main gear.
Is the climb safe and what about altitude sickness?+
The climb is generally safe with experienced guides. However altitude sickness is a concern — acclimatisation, hydration and pacing matter.
How many days does it take and can the itinerary be shorter?+
Typical itineraries are 5 days, but we recommend a 6‑day version for better acclimatisation, comfort and enjoyment. Shorter options exist but increase fatigue and risk.
Can I climb Mount Kilimanjaro without a guide?+
No — climbing requires permits, Guide and operator are mandatory.
What is the terrain and vegetation along the route?+
You pass through multiple vegetation zones: montane forest, moorland, alpine desert and volcanic slopes. Wildlife sightings are excellent in lower forest zones.