The Rongai route is less crowded compared to Marangu, and it is considered the easiest route of all. It features a relatively gentle gradient and short daily stages as it winds its way from the starting point just south of the Kenya-Tanzania border through attractive farmland and delightful forests, passing through several distinct climate zones.

IINCLUDED

1: Transport from JRO airport

2: A warm bed and english breakfast the night before and the night after the trek

3: All food on the climb

4: Transfer to and from the gate

5: Tents (four seasons, 3-person mountain tent – double occupancy), 

chairs and tables & accommodation

6: Mattresses (sleeping pad foam, 1.5 inches thick)

7: First aid kit & bottle of oxygen & pulse oximeter & personal stretcher

8: Park fees, camping fees and rescue fees

9: Forest fees (where they apply)

10: Fees for the guides and porters (as per government regulations), 

(food and public liability insurance for the guides & porters)

11: Value Added Tax (VAT) and other government taxes

NOT INCLUDED 

1: Transport back to the airport

2: 3 liters of water for the first day.

3: Drinks

4: Tips for guides and porters

5: Food on the first and last night at the hotel

6: Personal equipment for mountain climbing

Day One

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be met by our representative and taken to Janibichi Adventures, located on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering friendly services. It is situated just a 20-minute walking distance from Moshi town center.

After breakfast, you will be transferred by road, approximately a 3-4 hours' drive, along the eastern side of Kilimanjaro to the Rongai Gate in the north of Kilimanjaro National Park, where your hike begins. A short, leisurely hike will take you through a pine tree plantation that leads up into the thicker rainforest on the foothills of the mountain. Take your time to appreciate the natural surroundings, take photos, and enjoy your packed lunch that we provide. Spend your first night on the mountain at Simba Camp on the edge of the rainforest.

Dinner and overnight: Simba Campsite 

Continue your trek, heading out across the Kikelewa moorland towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. From here, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the plains of Kenya below. Spend the night at Kikelewa Camp.

Dinner and overnight: Kikelewa Camp 

A steep but short hike leads you over grassy terrain to the base of Mawenzi Peak. The views from here are spectacular, extending into Kenya's plains below. The vegetation diminishes as you gain altitude toward the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. Spend the night at Mawenzi Tarn Camp next to a small lake.

Dinner and overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (FB)

After breakfast, you will pass through the lunar desert of the Saddle, which is the lava-covered expanse between the two peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Though the walk is not far, progress is slow due to the altitude. Spend the night at the base of Kibo Crater at Kibo Camp. Prepare for an early night as your final ascent will begin around midnight.

Dinner and overnight: Kibo Camp (FB)

You will need to wake up very early, have a quick bite to eat, and something warm to drink before setting out in darkness. The hike to Gillman’s Point is a slow and steep walk on volcanic scree, taking about 5-6 hours. The headlamps on the trail towards the summit look like a string of fireflies. As you approach the crater rim, you will witness a truly memorable sunrise – a golden sunrise over Africa. You will repeatedly see the curvature of the earth at this high altitude, and the sunrise on the horizon accentuates it. Keep your camera ready as there are plenty of opportunities for photographs along the summit.

Once you reach Gillman’s Point on top of the crater rim, you have approximately another hour's hike to reach Uhuru Peak, which will be in sight. Hike along fairly flat terrain for about 1½ hours to reach Uhuru Peak. Spend a few minutes at the top and take photos of your choice next to the sign marking the summit. Descend from Uhuru Peak in high spirits, as you have just achieved your goal. The trail down from Gillman’s Point on the Marangu route is often enjoyed by hikers sliding down the scree slope, skidding down the loose gravel with big steps and some sideways moves. Try it; it is fun! With every step going down, your body enjoys having more oxygen to breathe in. Depending on how you feel, you may enjoy a short rest at Kibo Camp before descending to Horombo Hut, where you will spend the night.

Dinner and overnight: Horombo Hut 

Enjoy a leisurely hike through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. Take your time to appreciate the lush vegetation with the Old Man’s Beard (tree moss) growing on the giant trees, as well as the towering Giant Ferns. The path has many steps leading you down to Marangu Gate, where you can find a cold beer or a soft drink to start celebrating your successful ascent of Kilimanjaro. You will be transferred back to Janibichi Adventures Ltd for a hot shower.

Day Eight: Departure!