Overview

Experience Mount Kilimanjaro from a unique perspective with the Rongai Route, the only trail approaching from the mountain’s northern side near the Kenyan border. This less-crowded route offers pristine wilderness, scenic views, and a gradual ascent that makes it ideal for trekkers seeking a peaceful and rewarding climb.

Enjoy diverse landscapes — from pine forests and alpine meadows to the rugged lunar desert near the summit — and stand atop Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. With AML Travel & Safaris’ professional mountain team, safety, comfort, and success are our top priorities.

• Route: Rongai Route
• Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Success Rate: High (around 90%)
• Best Months: January–March & June–October

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha / Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be met by our driver and transferred to your lodge in Arusha or Moshi for pre-climb briefing and equipment check. Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi

Day 2: Rongai Gate (1,950m) – Simba Camp (2,600m)

After breakfast, drive to the Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border for registration. Begin your trek through beautiful montane forests, home to Colobus monkeys and tropical birds. A gentle ascent brings you to Simba Camp overlooking the plains.

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Distance: 7 km
• Vegetation: Forest Zone
• Accommodation: Simba Camp

Day 3: Simba Camp (2,600m) – Second Cave (3,450m)

The trail climbs steadily through moorland, offering stunning views of the eastern ice fields. Lunch is served en route before arriving at Second Cave Camp, where you’ll enjoy clear skies and incredible mountain vistas.

• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
• Distance: 9 km
• Vegetation: Moorland
• Accommodation: Second Cave Camp

Day 4: Second Cave (3,450m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

Continue your ascent through grassy slopes dotted with giant heathers and lobelias. The landscape opens up to reveal the towering peaks of Mawenzi. Camp near a sheltered valley at Kikelewa Camp.

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Distance: 6 km
• Vegetation: Moorland
• Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp

Day 5: Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) – Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)

A short but steep climb leads you to the Mawenzi Tarn, dramatically situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area with short hikes.

• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Distance: 7 km
• Vegetation: Alpine Desert
• Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m) – Kibo Hut (4,700m)

Cross the barren saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, a stark but striking landscape leading to Kibo Hut. Rest early in preparation for your midnight summit attempt.

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
• Distance: 8 km
• Vegetation: Alpine Desert
• Accommodation: Kibo Hut

Day 7: Summit Day – Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Begin your ascent around midnight, climbing slowly through the cold darkness toward Gillman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa! Celebrate your achievement and enjoy breathtaking sunrise views before descending to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

• Hiking Time: 12–14 hours total
• Distance: 19 km
• Vegetation: Arctic to Moorland
• Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 8: Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Arusha / Moshi

Descend through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Transfer back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for a hot shower and celebration dinner.

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
• Distance: 18 km