7 Day Rongai Route

Arrival Day at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Pick up from airport and transfer to accommodation in Arusha for an overnight stay.

Day 1 of 7: Simba Camp (2600m)
Hiking Time: 3 hrs
Embark on your Rongai route adventure! Begin the day with a journey to Marangu Park gate for registration before commencing the hike on the Rongai trail. Traverse through lush rainforests towards Simba Camp, surrounded by the evergreen forest showcasing diverse trees and flowers, including the enchanting gladiola, protea, and elephant trunk. The hiking time for today is approximately 3 hours, offering a serene introduction to your Kilimanjaro expedition.

Day 2 of 7: Second Cave which (3100m) or Kikelelwa Cave (3600m)
Hiking time: 3-4 hrs or 7 hrs
For seven days hiking the second day will be at Second Cave which is 3100m.
Embark on a full day of hiking! Traverse through moorlands towards Kibo, passing by the Second Cave (3450m) along the way before reaching the scenic Kikelelwa Cave. Marvel at the opening views and enjoy a great perspective of the water streams below, creating a picturesque setting within the cave. The hiking time for today is approximately 7 hours to Kikelelwa and 3-4 hours to the Second Cave (for seven days hiking).

Day 3 of 7: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m)
Hiking Time: 4 hrs
Embark on a 4-hour hike towards the jagged pinnacles of Mawenzi, where we will set up camp at Mawenzi Tarn Camp. The trail is short but steep, offering stunning views of the wilderness area. As we approach Mawenzi, the vegetation zone ends, and we’ll find ourselves surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Day 4 of 7: Kibo Hut (4700m)
Hiking time: 5 hrs
Cross a desert area known as the Saddle, nestled between Mawenzi and Kibo, towards Kibo Hut. This is where we make our final preparations and rest before the challenging summit hike in the midnight hours. Lunch and ample rest time precede an early dinner, providing sufficient rest before the ascent. The summit hike will pass through Gilman’s Point (5681m) before reaching Stella Point (5751m), where our trail merges with hikers from other routes, ultimately leading to the Uhuru Peak at 5895m. The ascent takes approximately 7-8 hours from Kibo Hut, with a descent of 3 hours back to Kibo Hut. After lunch and a brief rest, we descend further to Horombo Hut at 3700m.

Day 5 of 7: Kibo Hut 4700m – Horombo (3700m)
Hiking Time: 3 hrs
Post-summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and lunch. Continue the descent to Horombo Hut, passing through the saddle area before transitioning back to the heathers and moorland zone. At Horombo, you’ll encounter hikers ascending through the Marangu route, the only route used for both ascending and descending from the summit.

Day 6 of 7: Horombo Hut 3700m – Marangu Gate (1980m)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hrs
On the final day, depart from Horombo Hut towards the Marangu Gate. Along the way, pass by Mandara Hut (2700m) to view the Maundi Crater, offering a spectacular sight of Lake Chala at the border of Kenya and Tanzania. Continue the descent through the evergreen rainforest, where you may encounter different monkey species and a variety of birds and flowers. Collect your certificates at the gate, enjoy a short break for lunch, and head back to Arusha for a relaxed afternoon, dinner, and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 7 of 7: Departure
Transfer to the airport for departure.

What does this Rongai Route cost?

Includes & Excludes

Included
Ground transport for all the above days
Accommodation (two nights in Arusha Before and after the trekking) and all the night at Kilimanjaro
All park fees
Rescue fees
Guides, porters and cooks salaries
Three meals a day

Excluded
All other items of a personal nature
Tips to your guide
Soft drinks other than the mineral water
Alcoholic beverages
Person mountain gears such as sleeping bags, Rain gears( see list below)

Kilimanjaro Packing List

We’ve compiled a detailed Trekking Packing List to help you prepare for your adventure.

KEY MT. KILIMANJARO PACKING TIPS:

• Porters carry your main duffel bag, which must not exceed 15 kg (35 pounds). Any extra weight requires an additional porter.
• Pack clothing in durable, waterproof stuff sacks.
• Your daypack should include water, sunglasses, a camera, binoculars, and rain gear.
• You won’t have access to your main luggage until the day’s trek is over.
• Bring extra batteries, as cold weather shortens their lifespan.
• Critical gear, especially boots, should be carried on the plane with you in case of baggage delays.

Packs & Bags:
• Your daypack should be comfortable and spacious enough to carry your daily essentials, including rain gear, layers, and water.
• Ensure your daypack has a hydration bladder compartment and space for water bottles.

Water & Snacks:
• Stay hydrated with a 2-3 liter hydration bladder and wide-mouth water bottles. Electrolyte drink mixes are recommended to keep hydrated.
• Pack energy bars or other high-calorie snacks for quick energy boosts during the trek.

Footwear & Trekking Poles:
• Choose well-worn, comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support and a rugged sole. Avoid sneakers or trainers.
• Gaiters help keep debris out of your boots and keep your pants clean.
• Layer your socks, with a moisture-wicking liner and a cushioned outer sock. Avoid cotton.
• Consider using trekking poles for better balance and reduced fatigue.

Clothing Essentials:
• Your base layer should be breathable and moisture-wicking; avoid cotton.
• Mid-layers should provide insulation, and outer layers should be waterproof and breathable.
• Clothing should be lightweight, quick-drying, and hand-washable.
• Pack clothing for hiking, resting in the evening, and sleeping. Layering is key as temperatures can vary greatly.
• Never stay in wet clothing; change into dry clothes immediately upon reaching camp.
• Ensure your base layer wicks sweat away from your body, your mid-layer retains body heat, and your outer layer protects from wind and rain.
• The mountain’s weather is unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes.

Lighting & Sleeping Gear:
• A lightweight head torch with spare batteries is essential for navigating camp at night and during the summit bid.
• A 4-season rated sleeping bag (0°F to -15°F or -18°C to -26°C) is crucial for warmth. Consider adding a sleeping bag liner for extra warmth and hygiene.
• Pack your sleeping bag in a waterproof compression sack.

Personal Health & Comfort:
• Sunscreen is essential due to the stronger sun at high altitudes.
• Bring toiletries, anti-bacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, and any necessary medications.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel documents, including passport, visa, and any necessary vaccinations.

Preparing well in advance and practicing with your gear will help you feel confident and ready for your Kilimanjaro adventure. For any questions or additional tips, feel free to reach out to our experienced team – we’re here to help!