Tanzania · Trekking

6-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Rongai Route to Uhuru Peak

7 Days Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Summit Mount Kilimanjaro via the scenic Rongai Route
02 Experience breathtaking views and diverse landscapes during the climb
03 Trek through lush forests and encounter unique wildlife
04 Camp in stunning locations with awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets

Embark on a remarkable 6-day journey to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route. This less crowded path offers stunning vistas and diverse terrain as you trek through lush rainforest, encounter native wildlife, camp in breathtaking locations, and make your way to Uhuru Peak. Standing atop Africa's highest mountain is an unforgettable achievement.

Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak - the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Arusha and Trek Briefing

Once you have arrived safely at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be met by one of our drivers, who will transfer you to the hotel in Arusha. If you arrive early, you can explore Arusha Town, which is only a short taxi ride away, or relax at the lodge and prepare for the days ahead. You will also meet with one of our operations staff and guide, who will explain everything you need to know regarding your trek and check all your equipment.

Day 02

Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave

Once you have arrived safely at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be met by one of our friendly drivers, who will transfer you to the hotel in Arusha. If you arrive early, you can explore Arusha Town, which is only a short taxi ride away, or relax at the lodge and prepare for the days ahead. You will also meet with one of our operations staff and guide, who will explain everything you need to know regarding your trek and check all your equipment.

Day 03

Rongai Cave to Second Cave via Moorland

We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking through moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.

Day 04

Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. The landscape changes dramatically as we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.

Day 05

Cross the Saddle to School Hut

On a good, firm path, you will cross the Saddle today. You will feel the altitude and might experience symptoms of altitude sickness - headache and nausea. Take lots of fluids and keep going very slowly. You will hear your guide say pole - slowly, slowly. One last tough section, and you will be there. You will camp at School Hut tonight, but not before some dinner and hot chocolate. Get your daypack ready and go to bed early, as you will be woken up at around 00:00 to start the final stretch to the summit.

Day 06

Midnight Summit Push to Uhuru Peak

We begin our push to the summit very early in the morning, around midnight. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent but short breaks. At Gilman's Point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you will ever see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak - the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Day 07

Descent to Marangu Gate

On our last day, we trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu Gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.