Trip Overview:

8 Days Total | From $2,995 USD per person

One of Kilimanjaro's Easiest and Quietest Routes
Starts and ends in Moshi | Private or Group Departure Options
Flexible Start Dates – Treks Begin Any Day

The Rongai Route is a hidden gem—less crowded and known for its high summit success rate, gradual ascent profile, and unique approach from the remote northern side of Kilimanjaro near the Kenyan border. This route offers ever-changing views, a true wilderness experience, and a scenic descent via the Marangu Route, allowing you to see both sides of the mountain.

It’s ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter trail, a well-paced climb, and excellent acclimatization. The route can also be accessed from Kenya (Amboseli National Park)—contact us if you'd like to start from there.

Itinerary - Day by Day

Day 1: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Moshi or Arusha

A driver will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your lodge in Moshi (~45 minutes). You’ll meet your trekking guide today for a full orientation, gear check, and time to prepare for the climb. Extra luggage can be securely stored at the lodge during your trek.

Meals Included: None
Accommodation: hotel or Lodge (Mid-Range)

Day 2: Drive to Rongai Gate – Trek to Simba Camp

Depart Moshi and drive through villages and lush coffee farms to the trailhead at Nale Moru (~2 hrs). Begin hiking through forest and farmland before reaching the edge of the moorlands.

• Elevation: 2,000m to 2,650m

• Distance: 6 km / 4 mi

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Montane Forest
  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Simba Camp

Day 3: Trek Simba Camp to Second Cave

Enjoy stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak as you steadily ascend toward Second Cave, passing through scenic moorlands and open high-altitude terrain.

• Elevation: 2,650m to 3,450m

• Distance: 6 km / 4 mi

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Moorland
  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Second Cave Camp

Day 4: Trek Second Cave to Third Cave

Today is a shorter but higher-altitude day, allowing more time to acclimatize as you trek through semi-desert landscapes en route to Third Cave.

• Elevation: 3,450m to 3,880m

• Distance: 9 km / 5.5 mi

• Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

• Habitat: Semi-Desert
  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Third Cave Camp

Day 5: Trek to Kibo Hut – Summit Prep

Hike across alpine desert terrain to Kibo Hut at the base of the crater wall. Rest and prepare for your summit attempt, which begins in the early morning hours.

• Elevation: 3,880m to 4,750m

• Distance: 5 km / 3 mi

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert
  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Kibo Hut Camp

Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Start your ascent between midnight and 2 AM, reaching Gilman’s Point and continuing to the summit—Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend via Kibo Hut to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.

• Elevation: 4,750m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), down to 3,700m

• Distance: 21 km / 13 mi total

• Hiking Time: 12–14 hours

• Habitat: Arctic to Moorland
  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Horombo Hut Camp

Day 7: Descend to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

Continue descending through tropical forest to the park gate. You’ll be transferred back to Moshi for a hot shower and celebration.

• Elevation: 3,700m to 1,700m

• Distance: 20 km / 12.5 mi

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  Meals Included: Breakfast
  Accommodation: hotel or Lodge (Mid-Range)

Day 8: Departure or Safari Extension

Transfer to the airport or begin your Tanzanian safari adventure—ask us about custom extensions to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Zanzibar!

Meals Included: Breakfast

What's Included

• 2 nights mid-range lodging in Moshi or Arusha
• One-way airport transfer (arrival)
• National Park + camping fees
• All park permits and taxes
• Professional mountain crew: guides, porters, cook
• All meals during trek (B, L, D)
• Private tent (double occupancy)
• Emergency oxygen + first aid kit
• Daily health checks with pulse oxymeter
• Safe drinking water (filtered)

Not Included

• Flights (international/domestic)
• Travel insurance (required)
• Sleeping bag + sleeping pad (rental available)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tips for guides and crew ($400–600 recommended)
• Personal gear and toiletries
• Portable toilet (optional rental)
• Single tent supplement

Pricing (Valid through December 31, 2025)