A Day-to-Day Breakdown of Climbing Kilimanjaro
Climbing Kilimanjaro: A Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Rongai Route
Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is a challenge worth taking on, and our Rongai Route itinerary is designed to give climbers the best possible experience. With its gradual ascent, fewer crowds, and stunning views of the mountain’s north side, this route is one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to reach the top of Africa’s highest peak.
Here’s what to expect each day:
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to a comfortable lodge in Arusha. This day is for rest, gear organization, and a briefing with our guide team to prepare for the climb ahead.
Day 2: Explore Local Villages & Final Gear Check
Spend the day acclimating and exploring nearby villages, getting a taste of Tanzanian culture. We finalize packing and ensure all gear is ready before heading to the mountain.
Day 3: Drive to Rongai Trailhead & Hike to Simba Camp
A scenic drive takes us to the Rongai Trailhead, where the trek begins at 6,400’ (1,950m). The hike winds through lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys, before reaching Simba Camp (8,645’ / 2,635m) for our first night on the mountain.
Day 4: Move to Kikelewa Camp
The trail gradually ascends through moorlands with stunning views of the mountain ahead. We arrive at Kikelewa Camp (11,811’ / 3,600m), nestled among giant senecio trees, for a well-earned rest.
Day 5: Hike to Mawenzi Tarn
A steeper climb leads us to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (14,210’ / 4,330m), sitting beneath the rugged Mawenzi Peak. The dramatic surroundings and remote feel make this one of the most scenic camps on Kilimanjaro.
Day 6: Hike to Kibo Hut
We traverse the high-altitude desert of the Saddle, a stark, windswept expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo. After reaching Kibo Hut (15,419’ / 4,700m), we rest and prepare for summit day.
Day 7: Acclimatization Hike
A short acclimatization hike above Kibo Hut helps prepare for the final push. We return to camp for an early dinner and a few hours of rest before the midnight summit attempt.
Day 8: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak
Starting before midnight, we ascend slowly but steadily, reaching Gilman’s Point (18,652’ / 5,685m) before continuing along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (19,341’ / 5,895m)—the highest point in Africa! After celebrating at the summit, we descend via the Marangu Route, stopping at Horombo Hut (12,205’ / 3,720m) for much-needed rest.
Day 9: Final Descent via Marangu Route
The final stretch takes us through lush rainforests to the Marangu Gate (6,046’ / 1,843m), where we sign out of the park and drive back to Arusha for showers, food, and celebration.
Join Us on Kilimanjaro
This carefully paced itinerary gives climbers the best chance at a successful summit while taking in the beauty of Kilimanjaro. If you’re ready to stand on the Roof of Africa, connect with our team.
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