Arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to your booked accommodation in Moshi town.

Rongai Gate (1,800m/5,900ft) to First Cave Camp (2,600m/8,400ft)
Elevation Gain: 760 meters, 2,000 feet

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins after an early breakfast in Arusha, followed by a scenic drive to the Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border. Upon arrival, you’ll complete the necessary registration before starting your ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

On the first day, you’ll hike through serene forests, where the sounds and sights of wildlife may accompany you. The trail ascends along the less forested northern side of the mountain, offering a peaceful and uncrowded trekking experience. Enjoy lunch on the trail before reaching First Cave Camp, your first campsite of the journey.

The Rongai Route is known for its tranquility, as it is one of the least crowded routes on Kilimanjaro, thanks to the longer drive to the gate. Additionally, the northern side of the mountain provides a great opportunity to spot wildlife, making this route particularly special for nature enthusiasts.

First Cave Camp (2,600m/8,400ft) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) Elevation Gain: 1,000 meters, 3,280 feet.

During day two hike through Kilimanjaro’s moorland. The Rongai route is relatively short and steep, making for shorter hiking times. During this day, view Mawenzi Peak ahead.

Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,810ft) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m/14,200ft)
Elevation Gain: 730 meters, 2,390 feet

This day on the Rongai Route is dedicated to acclimatization, allowing you to adjust to the higher altitude while still making progress toward the summit. The hike from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp is relatively short but steep, giving your body time to adapt.

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to increasingly dramatic landscapes. The Mawenzi Tarn campsite, nestled beneath the rugged Mawenzi Peak, offers breathtaking views of both Mawenzi and the distant Kibo. After reaching the campsite, you’ll have the afternoon and evening to rest, take in the stunning surroundings, and prepare for the days ahead. This pause not only aids acclimatization but also provides a chance to fully appreciate the unique beauty of Kilimanjaro’s higher altitudes.

Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m/14,200ft) to Kibo Camp (4,750m/15,580ft)
Elevation Gain: 420 meters, 1,380 feet

On this day, you’ll traverse the stark, otherworldly landscape of the “saddle,” a vast, arid plateau that lies between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The hike is less steep than previous days but covers a longer distance across this lunar-like terrain, offering a sense of both awe and anticipation as you approach the final ascent.

As you make your way to Kibo Camp, you’ll notice the landscape becoming increasingly barren, with the surrounding environment taking on a surreal, almost extraterrestrial appearance. The air is thinner, and the temperature drops, reminding you that you’re nearing the summit of Kilimanjaro.

Kibo Camp, your final campsite before the summit push, is situated directly below the towering Kibo cone. From here, you can gaze up at the imposing peak, your ultimate goal now within sight. This is where you’ll rest, rehydrate, and mentally prepare for the challenging summit attempt that lies ahead. The night will be short, as your summit bid typically begins in the early hours before dawn.

Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,200ft) to Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,905ft)
Elevation Loss: 1,920 meters, 6,295 feet

On your final day on Kilimanjaro, you’ll descend from Horombo Hut after breakfast, embarking on a scenic trek through the lush cloud forests that blanket the lower slopes of the mountain.

This last leg of your journey offers a chance to reflect on the incredible achievement of reaching Uhuru Peak and to enjoy the rich biodiversity of Kilimanjaro’s unique ecosystems.

As you make your way down, be mindful of the trail, as it can be slippery, especially if the forest floor is damp. The descent is significant, and the change in scenery from alpine desert to verdant forest is striking. The sounds of wildlife and the rustling of leaves create a peaceful atmosphere as you conclude your adventure.