7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb – Rongai Route (Northern Approach)

We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey. 

Hiking Time:  3-4 hours 
Elevation:  6,398 ft to 9,300 ft 
Distance:  8 km | 5 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest
Meals included:  Half Board

We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.

Hiking Time:   3–4 hours
Elevation: 9,300 ft- 11,300 ft  
Distance:  6 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Heath
Meals included:  Full Board

The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area. 

Hiking Time:   3-4 hours 
Elevation:  11,811 ft to 14,160 ft 
Distance:  5 km | 3 miles
Habitat:  Alpine Desert
Meals included:  Full Board

This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp. 

Hiking Time:   1–2 hours each way
Elevation:  14,160 ft – 14,400 ft
Distance:  2 km | 1 mile
Habitat:  Alpine Desert
Meals included:  Full Board

We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours 
Elevation:   14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance:  8 km | 5 miles
Habitat:  Alpine Desert
Meals included:  Full Board

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Elevation:   15,430 ft- 19,341 ft
Distance:  6 km | 4 miles
Habitat:  Arctic
Meals included:  Full Board

On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours 
Elevation:   12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance:  20 km | 12 miles
Habitat:  Rain Forest
Meals included:  Full Board