Rongai 7 Days Itinerary Trekking Kilimanjaro

Day 0: Arrival in Moshi

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your accommodation in Moshi. Take this opportunity to rest and acclimatize to the local surroundings. Later in the day, gather for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing where your experienced guide will provide essential information about the upcoming expedition. Participate in a thorough gear check to ensure you have all the necessary equipment for a successful trek up Mount Kilimanjaro.

Day 1: Moshi to Simba Camp

Your Kilimanjaro adventure officially begins as you drive to the Rongai Gate and start trekking through the enchanting rainforest. The less-traveled Rongai Route provides a tranquil introduction to the mountain. Along the way, keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna. The day’s journey leads to Simba Camp at 2,650 meters, allowing for a gradual ascent and easing into the rhythm of the trek.

• Altitude: Starting at 1,950 meters and ascending to 2,650 meters.
• Overnight: Simba Camp
• Trekking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave

Continue your trek through the rainforest, encountering unique flora and perhaps catching glimpses of colobus monkeys. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes sparser, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Reach Second Cave at 3,450 meters, where the expansive views and diverse terrain mark your progress.

• Altitude: Ascending from 2,650 meters to 3,450 meters.
• Overnight: Second Cave
• Trekking Time: About 5-6 hours.

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Trek through the moorland zone, with Mawenzi Peak providing a striking backdrop. The landscape opens up, revealing vast panoramas and unique geological features. Keep an eye out for the distinctive “Saddle,” the flat area between Mawenzi and Kibo. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp at 3,600 meters, situated in a picturesque valley. The longer trek on this day allows for strategic acclimatization as you gradually gain altitude.

• Altitude: Ascending from 3,450 meters to 3,600 meters.
• Overnight: Kikelewa Camp
• Trekking Time: Approximately 6-7 hours.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Continue your ascent, passing the impressive Mawenzi Ridge and entering the alpine desert. Marvel at the unique rock formations and the breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak. The trail leads to Mawenzi Tarn Camp at 4,330 meters, nestled near a picturesque glacial tarn. Take time to acclimatize and appreciate the surreal beauty of the high-altitude environment.

• Altitude: Ascending from 3,600 meters to 4,330 meters.
• Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Hut
• Trekking Time: About 4-5 hours.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

Ascend to Kibo Hut at 4,700 meters, your final camp before the summit push. The landscape transitions to an arid alpine desert, and the views of the stark yet mesmerizing landscape become more pronounced. Rest and prepare for the challenging summit night, taking in the breathtaking views that surround you. Cross the lunar-like landscape and marvel at the glaciers on the slopes of Kibo.

• Altitude: Ascending from 4,330 meters to 4,700 meters.
• Overnight: Kibo Hut
• Trekking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours.

Day 6: Summit Attempt – Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Hut

Embark on the summit attempt in the early hours, trekking through the night to reach Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. Witness the sunrise from the highest point in Africa and take in the expansive views of the surrounding plains. Descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters) for a well-deserved rest after the intense summit day. The descent offers time to reflect on the achievement and savor the accomplishment.

• Altitude: Summiting from 4,700 meters to 5,895 meters, then descending to 3,720 meters.
• Overnight: Horombo Hut
• Summit Hike Time: 7-8 hours; Descent Time: About 6-7 hours.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Descend through the moorland and rainforest zones to Marangu Gate, where you’ll collect your summit certificates. The journey concludes with a transfer back to Moshi, providing time for reflection on the remarkable accomplishment of summiting Kilimanjaro. Take in the changing landscapes one last time, celebrating the challenges conquered and the triumphs achieved.

• Altitude: Descending from 3,720 meters to 1,860 meters.
• Trekking Time: Approximately 5-7 hours.