Climb Kilimanjaro in 7 days via the Rongai Route with an extra acclimatization day, a gentle gradient, and a quiet northern approach.
About this tour
Mount Kilimanjaro Trek via Rongai Route (7 Days)
The 7-day Rongai itinerary gives you the same quiet northern approach as the 6-day trek, with one more day on the mountain. The extra day improves acclimatization and raises your chance of reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m.
Rongai starts near the Kenyan border and climbs gradually through forest and moorland. Because the northern slopes are drier, it is a good option for trekkers who prefer less rain.
Highlights
- Extra acclimatization day for a higher summit success rate
- Quiet northern route with fewer crowds
- Gentle gradient and generally drier weather
- Experienced local guides and a full support crew
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 1 Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Rongai Gate (1,950 m) to Simba Camp (2,625 m) through farmland and pine forest.
Day 2 Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m) across moorland.
Day 3 Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Kikelewa Camp
Rest day at Kikelewa Camp with a short hike higher up, then back to sleep. This extra day helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Day 4 Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m), with views of Mawenzi peak.
Day 5 Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Camp
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Camp (4,700 m) across the Saddle. Early dinner and rest.
Day 6 Day 6: Summit Day, Uhuru Peak
Start around midnight to Gilman's Point and Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), then descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 m).
Day 7 Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, then transfer to Moshi.
Your safari at a glance
What's included
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off, plus transfers to and from the park gate
- All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, rescue fees and VAT
- Camping fees and sleeping tents, dining tent, tables, and chairs
- Licensed mountain guides, cook, and porters, including their wages
- Three meals a day on the mountain, hot drinks, and treated drinking water
- Foam sleeping mattress
- First aid kit, pulse oximeter checks, and emergency oxygen
- Pre-climb briefing and gear check in Moshi
- Summit certificate for those who reach Stella Point or Uhuru Peak
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa and travel or medical insurance
- Tips for the guides, cook, and porters
- Personal gear, equipment rental, and personal expenses
- Hotel accommodation, drinks, and meals in Moshi before and after the trek
- Optional upgrades (private tent, thicker mattress, private toilet)
Important information
- Uhuru Peak is 5,895 m (19,341 ft). Altitude affects everyone, so fitness, a slow pace, and a positive attitude matter.
- A pre-climb briefing and gear check is held the evening before the trek begins.
- Tips are paid at the end of the trek. A common guide is USD 20 to 25 per day for the lead guide, 15 to 20 for the assistant guide, 12 to 15 for the cook, and 8 to 10 per porter, shared by the group.
- Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking is strongly recommended.
- Bring warm layers, waterproof jacket and trousers, broken-in hiking boots, gloves, a warm hat, a headlamp, trekking poles, and a sleeping bag (rental is available).
- Private tour: the climb can start any day of the year and the itinerary can be adjusted.
Best time to travel
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