Itinerary Overview:

The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north and is considered one of the mountain’s easiest routes due to its gradual slope and direct path. It is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border, and is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the crowded Marangu route. This 7-day itinerary offers a more leisurely ascent and extra time for acclimatization, increasing the chances of a successful summit.

Day by Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival at Rongai Gate to First Cave Camp

• Elevation: 1,950m to 2,600m
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 8 km
• Habitat: Montane Forest

Your adventure begins at the Rongai Gate after a long drive from the town of Moshi. The hike starts on a small path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering the pine forest. You’ll spend your first night on the mountain at First Cave Camp, enjoying dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: First Cave Camp to Kikelewa Cave

• Elevation: 2,600m to 3,600m
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: 9 km
• Habitat: Moorland

The trail continues up towards Kibo, passing through the moorland zone where the landscape becomes increasingly sparse. This is where you get your first views of the Kibo Crater. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and rest at Kikelewa Cave for the night.

Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

• Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 6 km
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

The hike today is shorter to allow for acclimatization. The terrain changes to alpine desert as you approach Mawenzi Tarn, which is situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the surrounding area.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn

• Elevation: 4,330m (Acclimatization walks)
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours (optional walks)
• Distance: Variable
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Utilize this day for acclimatization with walks around the area which will help your body adjust to the altitude. The rest of the day is for relaxing and preparing for the upcoming ascent.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

• Elevation: 4,330m to 4,750m
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Distance: 8 km
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Cross the lunar-like, alpine desert of the ‘Saddle’, a broad, flat valley between Mawenzi and Kibo. As you hike, the summit of Kibo looms ahead. You’ll reach Kibo Hut for an early dinner, followed by rest, as you’ll be embarking on your summit attempt at midnight.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Summit, down to Horombo Hut

• Elevation: 4,750m to 5,895m (summit) and down to 3,720m
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours to summit; 5-6 hours to descend
• Distance: 6 km ascent, 15 km descent
• Habitat: Arctic

You’ll start the final ascent by torchlight around midnight. The route is steep and slow going on loose volcanic scree. But the struggle fades upon reaching Gilman’s Point, and from there, it’s a gradual climb to Uhuru Peak. Take time to savor your achievement before descending to the relative warmth of Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

• Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
• Distance: 20 km
• Habitat: Montane Forest

Your final day on the mountain takes you through the moorland and then the lush rainforest once more. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Afterward, you will be transferred back to your hotel, where you can finally rest and reflect on your incredible journey to the Roof of Africa.