Rongai Mountain Trail

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, join a briefing with the climb representatives who will provide essential information about your upcoming ascent and ensure you are fully prepared. Please note that hotel check-in begins at 2:00 pm. Overnight in Moshi.

On the morning of day two, your guide and mountain support team will meet you at the hotel for a brief orientation before transferring by vehicle to Kilimanjaro National Park’s northern entrance at Nalemuru Gate (2,020 metres). After completing the necessary formalities, including obtaining climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service, we will begin the trek to Simba Camp (2,625 metres). The route is moderate, passing through coniferous forest on Kilimanjaro’s northern slope. We advise maintaining a steady, comfortable pace throughout the 8-kilometre hike, which typically takes three to four hours. Upon arrival, our professional mountain crew will have your tents ready and prepare dinner. Alternatively, you may choose to add an extra acclimatisation night at an additional cost. This involves trekking from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp (3,480 metres) early the next morning—a gentle 4-kilometre hike taking two to three hours—followed by rest and an afternoon acclimatisation walk towards Kikilewa Camp (3,630 metres) before returning to Second Cave Camp. Please note that selecting this option will extend the itinerary by one day. Overnight accommodation is at Simba Camp.

After breakfast, we set off from Simba Camp to trek towards Kikilewa Camp at 3,630 metres. This section is more challenging than the previous day, with a steady ascent through alpine moorland. Upon arrival, you can rest and take in views of Kibo Volcano, weather permitting. The hike covers approximately 10 kilometres and typically takes 5 to 6 hours. Once at Kikilewa Camp, we recommend a full rest to prepare for the days ahead.

We start early with breakfast before setting off to trek from Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located at the base of Mawenzi Volcano, Kilimanjaro’s second highest peak. The hike covers 6 kilometres and takes around 4 to 5 hours, gaining nearly 700 metres in altitude. Upon arrival, we have lunch followed by a two-hour rest. In the afternoon, we undertake an acclimatisation walk, ascending approximately 200 metres towards Mawenzi Volcano before returning to camp. Dinner is served in the evening, and we spend the night at Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

Today we trek from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to School Hut Camp at 4,715 metres, crossing into a rocky semi-desert landscape. The hike is manageable, but it’s important to maintain a steady pace to conserve energy for the summit attempt ahead. On arrival, we recommend resting well, avoiding strenuous activity, and staying well hydrated, as you will begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak later that night. The trek covers approximately 9 kilometres and takes around 5 to 6 hours. Overnight is at School Hut Camp.

We set off just after midnight from School Hut Camp (4,715 m) to begin the final ascent to Kilimanjaro’s summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). While the climb is moderate in difficulty, the high altitude presents a significant challenge. Each pair of climbers is accompanied by a dedicated guide who will carefully monitor your condition throughout. After reaching Uhuru Peak, you may choose to visit the nearby glacier before descending to Kibo Camp for a two-hour rest. We then continue the descent to Horombo Camp (3,720 m) where you will spend the night. The full day covers approximately 21 kilometres and takes between 12 and 14 hours.

After a hearty breakfast, we begin the descent from Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate, the exit point of Kilimanjaro National Park. The trek covers approximately 18 kilometres and takes around 5 to 6 hours, descending from 3,720 metres to 1,860 metres. Upon arrival, the group will come together to celebrate your achievement and you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts in the guestbook. We will then present you with your commemorative certificate at our office before transferring you back to the hotel in Moshi for your overnight stay.

After a hearty breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Please note that hotel check-out is at 11:00 am. If your flight departs later in the day, you may opt to extend your stay with a late check-out for an additional fee.