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

Moshi – Rongai Gate – Simba Camp

After breakfast, your driver will pick you up and take you to Rongai Gate, where you'll obtain your hiking permit. From there, the trail passes through farmland and gradually ascends into the lush rainforest at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, leading you to your first overnight stop on the mountain — the aptly named Simba Camp.

DAILY INFORMATION

Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 5,900 ft to 8,400 ft

Elevation: 1,900m to 2,600m

Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

Hiking Time: 4 - 5 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp

After breakfast, you’ll begin a slow and steady climb toward Second Cave Camp, where you’ll pause for lunch and take in the stunning views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields along the crater rim.

DAILY INFORMATION

Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Elevation: 8,400 ft to 11,800 ft

Distance: 5.8 km

Hiking Time: 4 - 5 hours

Habitat: Moorland Heath

Second Cave Camp – Kikelewa Camp

After breakfast and packing up, you’ll continue your steady ascent through the Moorland, heading toward the rugged peaks of Mawenzi. Although it's a relatively short hiking day, it brings you nearer to the stunning Eastern Ice Fields, which will keep capturing your gaze. Be mindful of how your body feels and notify your guide immediately if you notice any symptoms of altitude sickness.

DAILY INFORMATION

Trekking Distance: 5.95km/3.7mi

Trekking Time: 2-3hrs

Habitat: Semi Desert

Elevation: 3487m/11,440ft to 3675m/12057ft

Altitude gained: 188m

Kikelelwa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp

After breakfast, you’ll ascend beyond the vegetation zone, crossing grassy slopes en route to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, beautifully nestled beneath Mawenzi’s dramatic spires. The hike is relatively short today, allowing ample time in the afternoon to explore the stunning surroundings and adjust to the higher altitude.

DAILY INFORMATION

Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 11,800 ft to 14,200 ft

Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m

Distance: 5 km / 3 miles

Hiking Time: 3 - 4 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Mawenzi Tarn Camp – Kibo Huts

After breakfast at camp, you will traverse the barren lunar landscape of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo, arriving at Kibo Hut located at the base of the Kibo Crater wall. The remainder of the day will be spent resting in preparation for your summit attempt at midnight.

DAILY INFORMATION

Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Huts

Elevation: 14,200 ft to 15,400 ft

Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m

Distance: 8 km / 5 miles

Hiking Time: 5 - 6 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Kibo Huts – Uhuru Peak Summit – Horombo Huts

It's summit night! Following a midnight wake-up and a warm drink, you’ll begin your challenging ascent to Uhuru Peak at 5,895m (19,340ft) above sea level. This is the toughest section of the trek, with a steep climb over loose scree leading to the crater rim at Gilman’s Point. Reaching this stage demands strong will and perseverance. After a brief rest, you'll push on to Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa! After celebrating with summit photos, you'll descend to Kibo Huts for lunch, then continue to Horombo Huts for your final night on the mountain.

DAILY INFORMATION

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Camp

Elevation: 15,400 ft to 19,340 ft (and descend to 12,200 ft)

Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (and descent to 3,720m)

Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Moshi

After enjoying your final breakfast on the mountain, you’ll make your way down to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate and have a chance to spend meaningful time with your mountain crew — an ideal moment to offer them their well-earned tips. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi to relax or celebrate your achievement!

DAILY INFORMATION

Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,200 ft to 6,050 ft

Elevation: 3,720m to 1,830m

Distance: 20 km / 12 miles

Hiking Time: 5 - 7 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

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

At the scheduled time, your driver will pick you up and take you to the airport for your journey home. Alternatively, you may continue on to your safari adventure or beach holiday.