7 Days Kilimanjaro via Rongai Route Trekking Adventure

Our adventure begins as we check-in at the Marangu Park Gate and make our way to the Rongai trailhead. The journey takes about 2 and a half hours, and upon arrival, we will meet our porters. The trail starts by winding through corn fields before gradually ascending into a picturesque pine woodland. We will spend our first night at Simba Camp, nestled at an altitude of 2,600 meters above sea level.

Today, we continue our ascent towards Kibo, passing through Second Cave at 3,450 meters along the way. As we trek, the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape begin to unfold, allowing us to truly appreciate the immensity of Mount Kilimanjaro. Our destination for the night is Kikelewa Cave, situated at an elevation of 3,600 meters. We will set up camp at the Third Cave Camp, also known as Kikelewa Caves.

A relatively short but steep climb over grassy hills rewards us with awe-inspiring panoramic views and a genuine sense of being immersed in the untamed wilderness. Leaving the forest behind, we reach Mawenzi Tarn at 4,330 meters. This serene spot is nestled in a cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. In the afternoon, we have the opportunity to relax and explore the surrounding area as part of our acclimatization process.

we will spend an extra day at Mawenzi Tarn. This allows us to hike and explore the beautiful surroundings while also resting and preparing for our trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro the following day.

Today, we traverse the lunar desert known as the 'Saddle' between Mawenzi and Kibo. This barren landscape leads us to the Kibo Hut, situated at an altitude of 4,750 meters and nestled at the base of the Kibo crater rim. The remainder of the day is dedicated to recuperation and final preparations for the challenging ascent that awaits us tomorrow.

We wake up before dawn, at 23:30 a.m., to enjoy a light breakfast of tea and biscuits before embarking on our final ascent. The journey begins with a demanding climb to Hans Meyer Cave at 5,150 meters. From there, we zigzag along the crater rim, facing steep slopes and loose scree, until we reach Gillman's Point at 5,681 meters. This is the most challenging part of the climb. Snow may accompany us all the way to the summit, Uhuru Peak, standing proudly at 5,895 meters as the highest point in Africa. The overwhelming sense of accomplishment and joy fills our hearts as we stand atop the summit. The duration of our stay at the summit will depend on the prevailing weather conditions. After capturing the memories through photographs, we descend to Kibo Hut and then continue to Horombo Hut, where we will spend the night.

After a hearty breakfast, we begin our descent, passing Mandara Hut as we make our way down to the Marangu Gate. At the gate, we receive our well-deserved summit certificates, commemorating our achievement. A vehicle awaits us to transport us back to the hotel in Moshi, marking the end of our memorable 7-day Rongai Route tour.