Tanzania · Trekking

5-Day Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Climb to Uhuru Peak

5 Days Round trip from Motamburu Kitendeni Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek through lush rainforest teeming with wildlife on the Rongai Route
02 Cross moorland and alpine desert landscapes on Mount Kilimanjaro
03 Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, on summit day
04 Acclimatize at First Cave Camp, Second Cave Camp, and Kibo Hut
05 Celebrate your achievement after the descent to Horombo Hut

Embark on a 5-day Mount Kilimanjaro adventure via the Rongai Route, hiking through lush rainforest, open moorland, and alpine desert as you make your way toward the summit. Spend your nights at First Cave Camp, Second Cave Camp, and Kibo Hut while acclimatizing to the increasing altitude. On summit day, tackle the challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, before descending to Horombo Hut. Complete your remarkable journey with a final descent, carrying the satisfaction of having reached the roof of Africa.

Embark on a 5-day Mount Kilimanjaro adventure via the Rongai Route, hiking through lush rainforest, open moorland, and alpine desert as you make your way toward the summit.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Rongai Gate to First Cave Camp Through Rainforest

Start your journey at the Rongai Gate, which is located at 1,860 m above sea level. From here, you will hike through a lush rainforest, where you can see a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and insects. The trail is relatively easy, and you will reach the First Cave Camp after 3-4 hours of hiking.

Day 02

First Cave Camp to Second Cave Camp Across Moorland

Today's hike will take you through a moorland landscape, where you can see the mountain's unique geological features and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You will reach the Second Cave Camp after 4-5 hours of hiking, where you can rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

Day 03

Second Cave Camp to Kibo Hut in the Alpine Desert

Today's hike will take you through a rocky landscape and into the alpine desert. You will reach Kibo Hut, which is located at 4,700 m above sea level, after 3-4 hours of hiking. This is the last camp before the summit, and it is important to rest and acclimatize here before attempting to reach the top.

Day 04

Summit Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Hut

Today is the day you have been preparing for - summit day. You will wake up early in the morning and hike to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The hike will take you through challenging rocky terrain, and you will need to use your hands to climb some sections. After reaching the summit, you will descend to Horombo Hut, where you can rest and celebrate your achievement.

Day 05

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate Descent

Today's hike will take you back down to the Rongai Gate, where your journey began. You will pass through the same rainforest and moorland landscapes as before, but this time you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Where this trip takes you

Rongai Gate rainforest, Kibo Hut alpine desert, Uhuru Peak summit

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Motamburu Kitendeni 3 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All activities as specified in the itinerary
Professional mountain guide and porters
Park entrance fees
Government fees or taxes
Transfer to or from the airport
18% VAT on tour fees and services
All meals and water
Transportation costs
Accommodation

What's Not Included

All alcoholic beverages, soda, and items of personal use
Laundry services
Pre- and post-safari accommodation in Moshi/Arusha
Tips or gratuities
Personal travel insurance
Visas
Flights

What to bring

Hiking Boots: A good pair of hiking boots is essential for the Rongai Route, as the terrain can be rocky and steep.
Warm Clothing: Pack warm clothing, including layers of fleece, a hat, and gloves, as the temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Waterproof Jacket: Bring a waterproof jacket to protect yourself from rain and wind.
Headlamp: A headlamp is necessary for navigating in the dark during the summit attempt.
Backpack: Bring a comfortable backpack with enough space to carry all your gear.
First Aid Kit: Pack a first aid kit with essentials such as painkillers, bandages, and antiseptic wipes.
Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays with sunscreen and a hat.
Water Bottle: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Energy Snacks: Pack energy snacks such as granola bars, nuts, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up.
Camera: Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and memories of your climb.

Know before you go

Altitude Sickness: Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, and descend immediately if you experience any of them.
Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before you start your climb and be prepared for changing conditions.
Guides and Porters: Consider hiring a guide and porters to help you navigate the route and carry your gear.
Permits: Make sure you have all the necessary permits and permissions before starting your climb.
Physical Condition: Ensure you are physically fit and able to handle the demands of the climb.
Equipment: Bring all the necessary equipment, including a sleeping bag, tent, and cooking gear, if you plan to camp.