8-Day Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trek to Uhuru Peak via Marangu

8 Days Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Quiet and less-crowded trail on Kilimanjaro's northern side
  • 02 Unique trek across two different mountain slopes
  • 03 Scenic ascent through beautiful pine forest
  • 04 Stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo volcanic cones
  • 05 Good acclimatization profile on a shorter route
  • 06 High summit success rate for fit hikers
  • 07 Descent via the scenic Marangu Route
  • 08 Ideal trek for those seeking solitude and diverse landscapes on Mount Kilimanjaro

The lesser-trodden Rongai Route on Kilimanjaro offers a quieter, more intimate trek on the mountain's northern side before descending via the southern Marangu Route. This journey rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the Mawenzi and Kibo volcanic cones, a scenic ascent through beautiful pine forest, and the rare experience of crossing two different slopes of the mountain. Ideal for fit regular hikers, the route provides good acclimatization on a shorter trail, helping boost summit success while delivering solitude and diverse landscapes on Mount Kilimanjaro.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu
Languages English, French, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival at Kilimanjaro and Hotel Transfer

Welcome to Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your thrilling adventure begins. A Kiliclimb Travel driver will meet you and take you to your hotel. After you settle in, a Kiliclimb Travel guide will meet with you to talk about the climb and make sure you are fully prepared and excited for the journey ahead.

On a private tour, group airport rides are included in the package. If anyone arrives separately from the group, that individual transfer is subject to an extra cost.

Check-in at the hotel starts at 2:00 PM. Let us know in advance if you need an earlier check-in, which can be arranged at an extra cost.

Aishi Machame Hotel

  • Mid-range hotel located at the foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

  • Meals at own expense
  • Drinks not included
2
Day 02

Nalemuru Gate Trek to Simba Camp

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide and mountain support crew. They will provide a quick briefing before you set off for the northern entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park, Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m / 6,627 f).

After your climbing permits are registered by your guide at the entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park, your group will begin the trek to Simba Camp (2,671 m / 8,612 f). The day's trek is of moderate difficulty, taking you through the stunning coniferous forest on Kilimanjaro's northern slope. Remember, there is no rush - keep a pace that feels comfortable for you.

By the time you reach the camp, our experienced mountain crew will have everything ready for you. They will have set up the tents and started preparations for dinner, so you can kick back and relish the memories of the day.

From now on, after dinner, your guide will hold an individual health check for each climber every day. The guide will also share instructions for the next day's expedition.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
3
Day 03

Simba Camp to Kikilewa Camp

Greet the day with a nourishing breakfast before setting off on a journey to Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m / 11,910 f). If the weather is in your favor, you will be treated to an awe-inspiring view of the Kibo Volcano at its very best.

Keep in mind that this trek pushes you further and asks more of your physical effort than the previous day, so upon reaching the camp, it is highly recommended to rest and recharge.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
4
Day 04

Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn and Acclimatization Hike

Rise with the sun for an early morning start. Today you are embarking on a journey to Mawenzi Tarn Camp. Nestled at the base of the formidable Mawenzi Volcano, the second-highest peak of Kilimanjaro, this camp promises an experience of a lifetime.

Upon arrival at Mawenzi Tarn, take some time to rest and have lunch. But the day's adventure is not over yet. Next comes an exhilarating acclimatization hike toward the mighty Mawenzi Volcano. Prepare to conquer a gain of 200 meters in altitude before descending back to Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
5
Day 05

Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Summit Camp

Today brings an adventure like no other. You will trek toward Kibo Summit Camp (4,720 m / 15,486 f), entering a surreal world where lush landscapes give way to semi-desert terrain scattered with rocks.

The day's trek is not too challenging, but remember, it is not a race. Maintain a steady pace to preserve your energy for the ultimate challenge - the ascent to Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.

Upon arrival at the camp, focus on rest and hydration. Get plenty of sleep and avoid any strenuous activities. You will need all the energy you can muster because tonight, you will be scaling the heights of Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,340 f). This is the moment you have been waiting for.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
6
Day 06

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo

Your mountain crew will wake you for a quick snack before the most exciting night of the entire adventure.

Shortly after midnight, your team will embark on the most thrilling part of your journey from Kibo Camp. The climb to Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 5,895 m / 19,340 feet, is more than just a physical challenge; it is a test of your endurance as your body grapples with the effects of high altitude.

Do not worry, you will not be alone. For every pair of climbers, there will be a guide constantly monitoring your fitness throughout this challenging climb. Once you have conquered the peak, you can opt for a spectacular walk to the nearest glacier, a reward for your hard-earned victory.

Next, you will begin your careful descent to Horombo Camp, which sits at 3,720 m / 12,205 f. You will get a 2-hour break at Kibo Camp. Be careful - it is really important to remember that most accidents happen on the way down, so watch your step.

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

  • All meals included
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
7
Day 07

Horombo Camp Descent to Marangu Gate

After breakfast, you will embark on the last leg of your journey, descending to Marangu Gate, standing at 1,970 m / 6,463 f. Your mountain chef will be waiting there with a hearty lunch.

This stop is a golden chance to share your thoughts, memories, and impressions of the expedition with your support crew. They will celebrate your victory with certificates of achievement, a testament to your incredible journey.

Then, with hearts full of accomplishment and memories to last a lifetime, you will be taken back to the comfort of your hotel.

Aishi Machame Hotel

  • Mid-range hotel located at the foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

  • Breakfast & lunch (dinner not included)
  • Non-alcoholic drinks
8
Day 08

Departure and Airport Transfer

Take some time to unwind in the comfort of your hotel before the drive to the airport for your journey home.

You will need to check out of the hotel by 11:00 AM. If your flight is later in the evening and you would like to extend your stay, there is an option to book the room for a little longer at an additional cost.

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

  • Breakfast (lunch & dinner not included)
  • Non-alcoholic drinks

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
3 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Porterage
  • Rescue fee
  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • Camping equipment
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • All taxes/VAT
  • Round-trip airport transfer
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What's Not Included

  • Climbing gear
  • International flights (from/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Sleeping bag
  • Bath towels
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$25.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What to bring

  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Warm layers and down jacket
  • Hiking boots and extra socks
  • Daypack and sleeping bag
  • Headlamp and trekking poles
  • Water bottles (3L capacity)
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
  • Personal medications and toiletries
  • Snacks, power bank, and camera

Know before you go

  • Hike slowly ("pole pole")
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Eat well and rest adequately
  • Follow acclimatization hikes
  • Report any altitude sickness symptoms
  • Dress in layers for changing weather
  • Listen to your guide's instructions
  • Enjoy the scenery and take photos

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha, Tanzania
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began.

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