6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing on Rongai Route: A Journey to the Roof of Africa with KCTE
Introduction
Embark on a life-changing adventure to the summit of Africa's highest peak with Kilimanjaro Centre for Trekking and Ecotourism (KCTE). Our guided 6-day trek via the Rongai Route offers a unique combination of spectacular scenery, diverse wildlife, and cultural insights. As a premier tour operator based in Tanzania, KCTE is committed to providing you with an exceptional climbing experience that prioritizes safety, environmental sustainability, and local engagement.
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly KCTE team will greet you warmly and transfer you to your chosen hotel in Moshi. You can select your accommodation from the top-rated options listed on our accommodation page. Spend the rest of your day relaxing and preparing for the adventure that awaits. Our team will conduct a thorough pre-trek briefing in the evening, ensuring you are fully prepared for the climb.
Day 1: Moshi to Simba Camp
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, a short drive will take you to the Rongai Gate, where your trek begins. The initial part of the hike is a gentle walk through lush montane forests, home to diverse wildlife including monkeys and colorful birds. This less crowded route offers a serene and contemplative start to your climb. Dinner and overnight will be at Simba Camp, nestled amidst the trees.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Cave
- Elevation: 2,650m to 3,600m
- Distance: 11 km
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
The trek continues through the moorland zone, featuring vast landscapes and striking views of the eastern ice fields of Kibo. The vegetation thins as you ascend, replaced by rugged terrain with scattered shrubs. Kikelewa Cave campsite offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding wilderness. Enjoy the stark, raw beauty of the mountain under a star-lit sky.
Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn
- Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today's hike is shorter, allowing for acclimatization. The landscape transitions to the alpine desert, with sparse vegetation and rocky grounds. Arriving at Mawenzi Tarn, you are treated to a stunning view of Mawenzi Peak. The remainder of the day is spent resting or exploring the area, aiding your acclimatization.
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
- Distance: 9 km
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
As you traverse the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, the stark and lunar-like landscape offers a sense of isolation and remote beauty. The hike today prepares you for the summit push. You'll rest early at Kibo Hut, as the ascent to Uhuru Peak begins at midnight.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (summit) to 3,720m
- Distance: 22 km
- Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
- Habitat: Arctic
The most challenging yet exhilarating part of your trek starts around midnight. Winding up the steep, frozen scree to Gilman's Point on the crater rim, and then to Uhuru Peak, you'll catch the magnificent sunrise illuminating the vast landscape below. Standing at 5,895m, you've conquered the highest point in Africa! After the summit, a descent follows to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Moshi
- Elevation: 3,720m to 1,980m
- Distance: 20 km
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
The descent continues through the moorland to the Mandara Hut, and then back into the lush montane forest. Reaching the Marangu Gate, you will receive your summit certificates. Our KCTE vehicle will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can enjoy a celebratory dinner and a comfortable night's rest.
Departure Day: Farewell Tanzania
After breakfast and a day of relaxation or exploration in Moshi, our KCTE team will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Your heart may leave Kilimanjaro, but the memories will stay with you forever.
What's Included:
- Airport transfers
- Hotel accommodation before and after the climb
- All meals on the mountain
- Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Salaries for guides, porters, and cook
- Drinking water and treated water on the climb
- Emergency oxygen and pulse oximeter
What's Not Included:
- Flights
- Tanzanian visa
- Personal hiking equipment
- Tips for the crew
- Personal expenses
Customization and Booking
This itinerary is customizable to better fit your needs or preferences. For further details, inquiries, or to book your climb, please visit us at info@mt-kilimanjaro.com or call us at +255 753 700 700.
Embark on this majestic journey with KCTE, and let us guide you to the top of Africa!