7-Day Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trek to Uhuru Peak

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Ascend Kilimanjaro via the remote and scenic Rongai Route from the northern side
• 02 Camp at unique sites like Simba, Kikelewa, and Mawenzi Tarn across diverse landscapes
• 03 Summit Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, for breathtaking sunrise views
• 04 Descend via the Marangu Route after your summit push

Experience the stunning Rongai Route on Mount Kilimanjaro on this detailed 7-day trek. Hike through diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to alpine deserts while benefiting from gradual acclimatization to improve your chances of a successful summit. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, camp at scenic sites along the mountain, and reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Challenging

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu

Languages Dutch, English, French, German, Norwegian, Polish, Spanish, Swedish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Nalemoru Gate to Simba Camp Through Lush Forest

• Start the trek at Nalemoru Gate.
• Hike through lush forest and enjoy wildlife spotting.
• Ascend steadily to Simba Camp.
• Rest and prepare for the next day.

2

Day 02

Simba Camp to Second Cave with Mawenzi Views

• Leave Simba Camp after breakfast.
• Climb through moorland with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak.
• Reach Second Cave and set up camp.
• Focus on acclimatization and hydration.

3

Day 03

Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp Across Rocky Ridges

• Trek across rocky terrain and ridges.
• Pass through open landscapes and valleys.
• Arrive at Kikelewa Camp for rest and acclimatization.

4

Day 04

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn in the Alpine Desert

• Ascend to the alpine desert zone.
• Experience panoramic views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
• Camp near Mawenzi Tarn and prepare for higher altitude.

5

Day 05

Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut for Summit Preparation

• Trek through lunar-like terrain.
• Reach Kibo Hut, the final camp before the summit attempt.
• Rest early and get ready for summit day.

6

Day 06

Midnight Summit to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Hut

• Start the summit climb very early, around midnight.
• Reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
• Descend back to Kibo Hut for rest and refreshments.
• Continue descending to Horombo Hut for an overnight stay.

7

Day 07

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and Trek Completion

• Trek down through the forest to Marangu Gate.
• Complete the descent and receive summit certificates.
• Transfer to your accommodation or onward destination.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
• Professional guides, cooks, and porters
• Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
• Meals and drinking water during the trek
• Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
• Transfers to and from the mountain

What's Not Included

• Flights and visas
• Travel insurance
• Personal trekking gear
• Tips for the crew
• Additional hotel accommodations

What to bring

• Warm clothing layers.
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Trekking poles

Know before you go

• Less crowded route with a wilderness experience.
• Suitable for those seeking a quieter trek.
• Good for acclimatization due to gradual ascent.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Arusha, Tanzania

Tour start

Nalemoru, Tanzania

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.