6 Days Group Luxury Kilimanjaro Climb via Rongai Route from Arusha in Tanzania (2026 - 2027)

Moshi – Rongai Gate (Nalemoru) – Simba Camp

Altitude: 2,020m to 2,650m 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Distance: 8km 

Habitat: Montane Forest

After an early breakfast, you will set off on a picturesque drive to Rongai Gate near the Kenya border. Upon arrival, you will complete the park registration before starting your hike. The trail begins with a gentle walk-through farmland, gradually transitioning into a lush montane forest home to colobus monkeys and a variety of exotic birds. When you reach Simba Camp, your wash tents will be prepared so you can freshen up before dinner. For your comfort and wellbeing, private toilets will be provided, along with oxygen tanks as a safety measure against altitude sickness.

Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp

Altitude: 2,650m to 3,450m 

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours 

Distance: 6km 

Habitat: Moorland 

The day starts with a gradual yet comfortable climb as you leave the forest behind and enter the expansive moorland. During this section, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the distant Kenyan plains. The area is dotted with distinctive high-altitude vegetation, including giant lobelias and senecios. Upon arriving at Second Cave Camp, you’ll have the afternoon to relax. Privacy wash tents and private toilets are available, along with oxygen tanks as a safety measure to ensure your comfort at higher elevations.

Second Cave Camp –Third Cave Camp

Distance: 3.3km/2mi 

Hiking time: 3-4hrs 

Elevation: 2635m/8645ft to 3936m/12,913ft 

Altitude: 449m 

Habitat: Semi Desert 

After breakfast and packing up, you’ll continue your steady ascent through the semi-desert landscape. Although the hiking day is fairly short, the trail offers breathtaking views of the Eastern ice fields that are sure to impress. Be mindful of how you’re feeling and inform your guide immediately if you notice any symptoms of altitude sickness. Upon arrival, wash tents will be set up for you to freshen up, and private toilets will be available for your comfort. Before dinner, a short acclimatization hike is recommended, with oxygen support readily accessible if required.

Third Cave Camp – Kibo Huts

Distance: 6.7km/4.2mi 

Hiking time: 4-5hrs 

Elevation: 3936m/12,913ft to 5174m/16975ft 

Altitude: 1238m 

Habitat: Alpine Desert 

At dawn, after departing from the Third Cave, you’ll leave the semi-desert zone behind and enter the Alpine Desert as you begin the final phase of your climb. Today’s hike leads you to the Kibo Huts, located just below the Kibo crater wall. Here, you’ll join the Marangu Route, which ascends to the summit. Before turning in around 7 PM, you’ll prepare your gear by replacing batteries in your headlamp and camera, then rest in anticipation of the summit attempt. Wash tents will be available for freshening up, with private toilets for added comfort. A brief acclimatization walk is recommended before dinner, and oxygen support will be provided if needed.

Kibo Huts - Uhuru Peak Summit - Horombo Huts

Distance: 4km /2.5 mi up -15.75km /9.8mi down 

Hiking time: 5-7hrs up /5-6hrs down 

Elevation: 5174m/16975ft to 5895m/19,341ft 

Altitude gained: 721m Descent to 3721m/12,208ft 

Altitude lost: 2174m 

Habitat: Glaciers, Snow Capped 

The trek begins in the early hours, usually between midnight and 2 a.m., marking the most demanding part of the climb. You’ll navigate winding switchbacks over loose scree nestled between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, building anticipation with every step. Upon reaching Stella Point, you’ll be greeted by a stunning sunrise before the final snowy push to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest summit. After celebrating, capturing photos, and savoring the moment, the descent starts. You’ll pause at Kibo Hut for a brief rest and lunch before continuing down to Horombo Huts. Trekking poles and gaiters are recommended to manage the loose gravel terrain. At Horombo, you can relax, freshen up in the wash tents, enjoy dinner, and rest well for your final night on the mountain.

Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Moshi

Distance :20km/12.5mi 

Hiking time: 6-7hrs 

Elevation: 3721m/12,208ft to 1905m/6250ft 

Altitude lost: 1816m 

Habitat: Rainforest 

After breakfast and a heartfelt farewell to your crew, it’s time to say goodbye. The descent continues with a lunch stop at Mandara Huts, offering the perfect opportunity to thank your guides, cooks, and porters with tips, as you will be parting ways there. Afterwards, you’ll proceed to the Marangu Park Gate, where you’ll receive your well-deserved summit certificates. Expect the trail to be wet, muddy, and steep due to the warmer weather, so wearing gaiters and using trekking poles is highly advised. A vehicle will be waiting at the gate to take you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 45 minutes), where you can enjoy a refreshing hot shower, a satisfying dinner, and a joyful celebration!

Departure from Moshi to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Altitude: 1,200m (Moshi) - 890m (JRO)

Hiking Time: 3–4 hour

Distance: 10 km

Habitat: Rainforest

After a restful stay at your hotel in Moshi, your Mount Kilimanjaro adventure comes to an end. Start your day with a relaxed breakfast, reminiscing about the incredible journey to Africa’s highest peak. Depending on your schedule, you might have time to explore Moshi or pick up some souvenirs. When the moment arrives, you will be transferred to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure. As you leave Tanzania, you’ll carry with your unforgettable memories of the 8-day Rongai Route trek, stunning landscapes, and the achievement of reaching Uhuru Peak.