7-Day Rongai Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route with Alvin African Safaris. This 7-day trek offers a quieter, scenic ascent on Kilimanjaro’s north-eastern side, combining beautiful wilderness and a rewarding summit experience.

7 Days / 6 Nights Safari

Manadara Hut, Horormbo Hut, Mawenzi Peak, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak, Marangu Gate

Trekking Overview

A Scenic, Less-Crowded Path to the Roof of Africa

The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north-east side, near the Kenyan border. Gaining popularity among trekkers, it is considered the second easiest route after Marangu, offering a gentler ascent, fewer crowds, and drier conditions—thanks to its north-facing orientation.

This route is ideal for those seeking a unique and peaceful climb with stunning wilderness views. Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to alpine deserts, before making your final push to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point.

Full Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha

Arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your Alvin African Safaris representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Later, meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and gear check to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Meals: Dinner on your own
Accommodation: Lodge/hotel in Arusha

Day 2: Arusha to Rongai Start Point – Rongai First Cave

Elevation: 1,950 m to 2,620 m

After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate for registration before heading to the Rongai Start Point. Your trek begins through maize fields and lush rainforest, following a gentle trail to the Rongai First Cave, where you’ll camp for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Rongai First Cave Camp

Day 3: Rongai First Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 2,620 m to 3,600 m

Continue through the rainforest, gradually ascending into the moorland zone where the landscape opens to shrubs and alpine grasses. Stop for lunch at the Rongai Second Cave, then head east toward Kikelewa Camp for an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn

Elevation: 3,600 m to 4,300 m

Today is a shorter but steeper climb to Mawenzi Tarn, a stunning camp nestled beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. Arrive by lunchtime and spend the afternoon exploring and acclimatizing to the altitude.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 4,300 m to 4,700 m

Cross the barren alpine desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, with sweeping views of both peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut by mid-afternoon for rest and an early dinner before preparing for your midnight summit attempt.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kibo Hut

Note: Prepare your gear (headlamp, warm clothing, snacks) before heading to bed early.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720 m

Wake at midnight for the summit push. Trek under a star-lit sky to Hans Meyer Cave and continue zigzagging to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim. From here, it’s a final push to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa.

Celebrate briefly before descending to Kibo Hut for rest and then continue down to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,870 m

Descend steadily through the lush rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Here, you’ll sign out and receive your well-earned Kilimanjaro certificate—gold for summiting Uhuru Peak, or green for reaching Gilman’s Point. Afterward, transfer back to your hotel for a hot shower and celebration.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Not included (end of trek)

Why Choose Alvin African Safaris?

  • Personalized itineraries built around your interests and travel style

  • Expert local guides who bring Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife to life

  • Handpicked lodges and camps for comfort and authenticity

  • Private vehicle and flexible schedules for a more personal experience

  • Trusted, family-run company with deep local knowledge and care for your journey

What’s Included

  • Accommodation as per itinerary

  • Meal plan: Bed & Breakfast at town hotels; Full Board during the Kilimanjaro climb

  • Porters to carry your luggage

  • Salaries and park fees for guides, porters, and cooks

  • Trekking poles and sleeping bag

  • Professional English-speaking mountain guide

  • Transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to your hotel in Arusha

  • Drop-off at Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) after the trek

  • Transfers to/from Marangu Gate for the climb

  • Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and rescue fees

  • 18% VAT for park fees

What’s Included

  • Tanzania entry visa

  • Medical insurance

  • International and domestic flights

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Non-alcoholic drinks not listed in the itinerary

  • Personal items (e.g., laundry, phone calls)

  • Tips for guides, porters, and camp staff

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