7 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Escape the crowds and experience Mount Kilimanjaro like few others do—via the Rongai Route, the only trail that approaches the mountain from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. This route is renowned for its peaceful wilderness, gradual ascent, and high success rate.

Perfect for climbers looking for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, Rongai takes you through lush farmland, pine forests, moorlands, and the moon-like Saddle, leading up to the summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m).

The climb can be completed in 6 or 7 days, with the 7-day version offering an extra acclimatization day to boost your summit success.

7 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Arusha

📍 Elevation: ~1,400m
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha | Meals: Dinner

Your Kilimanjaro journey begins the moment you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). A warm welcome from Revelation Adventure Safaris awaits, followed by a transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Settle in, enjoy a briefing from your head guide, go through a gear check, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Nalemoru Gate (2,020m) to Simba Camp (2,625m)

🚐 Drive: 3–4 hours
🚶‍♂️ Hiking: 6–7 km | 3–4 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Simba Camp | Meals: B, L, D

After breakfast, drive to Nalemoru Gate on Kilimanjaro’s northern flank. Begin your trek through farmlands and into shady pine forests, home to black-and-white colobus monkeys and diverse birdlife. Arrive at Simba Camp on the edge of the moorland zone for your first night under the stars.

Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

🚶‍♂️ Hiking: 10–12 km | 6–7 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp | Meals: B, L, D

The trail continues with a gradual climb to Second Cave, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Kenyan plains. After a short break, continue toward Kikelewa Camp, crossing open moorland dotted with giant senecios. The surrounding valleys and rugged terrain offer a dramatic and peaceful wilderness setting.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m)

🚶‍♂️ Hiking: 6–7 km | 4–5 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn | Meals: B, L, D

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper. You’ll leave the grassy slopes behind and climb into the alpine desert zone, eventually reaching the beautiful Mawenzi Tarn, nestled in a glacial cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. After lunch, enjoy a short acclimatization hike or relax and take in the scenery.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4,720m)

🚶‍♂️ Hiking: 8–9 km | 5–6 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Kibo Hut | Meals: B, L, D

Trek across the Saddle, a wide, barren plain of volcanic rock that connects Mawenzi to Kibo, Kilimanjaro’s main summit cone. You’ll reach Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit attempt. After an early dinner and detailed briefing, it’s time to rest—your summit push begins just before midnight.

Day 6: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and Down to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

🚶‍♂️ Hiking: 22 km | 12–15 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Horombo Hut | Meals: B, L, D

Rise around midnight and begin your slow, steady ascent under the stars. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is steep and challenging, but the sight of sunrise from Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, is unforgettable. After taking in your achievement and snapping photos, descend to Kibo Hut for a brief rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Return to Arusha

🚶‍♂️ Hiking: 18 km | 5–6 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha | Meals: B, L

Enjoy your final walk through the lush rainforest, filled with birdsong and wildflowers. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, receive your summit certificate—a badge of honor. From there, return to Arusha for a hot shower, a warm meal, and a well-earned rest.

Optional Day 8: Departure or Safari Extension

📍 Meals: Breakfast
Depending on your flight schedule, relax in Arusha or continue your adventure with a tailor-made safari or beach escape to Zanzibar, arranged by Revelation Adventure Safaris.