7 Days Rongai Route Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking

• Distance: 7km / 4.3mi

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

• Elevation: 1,950m/6,398ft to 2,750m/9,022ft

Highlights: After a morning drive to the Nale Muru Gate, the trek begins through lush farmlands and dense forests, with the possibility of spotting Colobus monkeys and exotic birds. The trail gradually ascends to Simba Camp, offering stunning views of the Kenyan plains.

• Distance: 5.8km / 3.6mi

• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

• Elevation: 2,750m/9,022ft to 3,450m/11,319ft

Highlights: The hike continues through heathland and moorland, with breathtaking views of Kibo Peak. A gradual climb brings you to Second Cave Camp, where you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the Eastern Ice Fields of Kilimanjaro.

• Distance: 5.95km / 3.7mi

• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours

• Habitat: Semi-Desert

• Elevation: 3,450m/11,319ft to 3,675m/12,057ft

Highlights: The trek ascends gradually, passing through rocky terrains and scattered vegetation. Upon arrival at Kikelelwa Camp, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest peak.

• Distance: 3.75km / 2.3mi

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Habitat: Semi-Desert

• Elevation: 3,675m/12,057ft to 4,330m/14,206ft

Highlights: A short but steep climb leads to Mawenzi Tarn, a picturesque alpine lake nestled beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is spent acclimatizing and enjoying the serene environment.

• Distance: 8.9km / 5mi

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Elevation: 4,330m/14,206ft to 4,700m/15,419ft

Highlights: The trek traverses the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, leading to Kibo Hut, the final base camp before the summit push. The landscape is barren and moon-like, with little vegetation. Early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit attempt.

• Distance (Ascent): 4km / 2.5mi

• Hiking Time (Ascent): 5-7 hours

• Distance (Descent): 15.75km / 9.8mi

• Hiking Time (Descent): 5-6 hours

• Habitat: Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit

• Elevation: 4,700m/15,419ft to 5,895m/19,341ft (Summit), then down to 3,720m/12,205ft

Highlights: The climb starts around midnight, navigating through steep scree and switchbacks toward Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft). From here, it’s a gradual ascent along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft) – the highest point in Africa! After celebrating, you descend to Horombo Huts for a well-earned rest.

• Distance: 20km / 12.5mi

• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

• Habitat: Rainforest

• Elevation: 3,720m/12,205ft to 1,860m/6,102ft

Highlights: The final descent through lush rainforest leads to Marangu Gate, where successful climbers receive a summit certificate. A short drive takes you back to Moshi, marking the end of an unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.