6 Days Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route
- Rongai Route
Trekking Overview
Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” Marangu Route is one of the most established and well-loved trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is considered among the most comfortable paths due to its gradual slope and unique mountain hut accommodations with dormitory-style beds and shared dining areas — the only route offering this feature.
Though often seen as an easier climb, it still demands determination, fitness, and proper acclimatization. The five-day itinerary provides a compact and classic experience; however, adding an extra acclimatization day is highly recommended for a greater chance of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
The ascent and descent follow the same path, making it less varied scenically, but ideal during the rainy season when the warm huts are especially appreciated.
The following itinerary provides a detailed day-by-day guide to your Kilimanjaro climb, including distances, trekking times, altitude gains, and what to expect at each camp.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Moshi Town
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, our friendly driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi town. You will meet your trekking guide, who will provide a detailed briefing about the trek, including safety tips, route overview, and a gear check to ensure everything is in order. Any essential equipment may be rented today. This day is designed to help you acclimatize and prepare mentally for your adventure.
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Day 2: Moshi – Nalemoru Gate (1,990m) to Simba Camp (2,625m)
This morning we drive to the village of Nalemoru, the starting point of the Rongai route. The first stage of the trek is through farmland and pine forests. You may have the chance to see Colobus monkeys, elephants, or buffalo along the way. Our first camp is Simba Camp, located at the edge of the moorland zone.
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Approx. time: 4–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 3: Simba Camp (2,626m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,679m)
We hike from Simba Camp up towards Kibo, stopping for lunch at First Caves (3,482m). After lunch, continue trekking until reaching Kikelewa Camp. The views open up beautifully, giving the first real sense of the mountain’s grandeur. Water is available from streams below the cave.
- Distance: 11.8 km / 7.3 mi
- Approx. time: 6–7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3,679m) – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,303m)
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach Mawenzi Tarn Camp, situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Approx. time: 4–5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,303m) – Kibo Hut (4,730m)
After breakfast, continue ascending on the east side of Kibo, crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Arrive at Kibo Hut in 4–5 hours. The day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent around midnight.
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Approx. time: 5–6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,730m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,705m)
Begin your final ascent around 23:20. The first section is rocky to Hans Meyer Cave (5,150m), then zigzag steeply up to Gillman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for overnight.
- Elevation Gain: 1,165m / 3,820 ft to Uhuru Peak
- Elevation Loss: 1,965m / 6,450 ft to Horombo
- Approx. time: 7–8 hours to Uhuru, 6–8 hours descent to Horombo
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included
Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,705m) – Marangu Gate (1,860m)
After breakfast, continue descending for approximately 6 hours, passing Mandara Hut, down to Marangu Gate. Here, climbers receive their summit certificates: Green for Gillman’s Point, Gold for Uhuru Peak. Transfer back to Moshi for dinner, rest, and celebrations.
- Distance: 29 km / 18 mi
- Approx. time: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch Included
Day 8: Departure and Optional Excursions
On your final day, we ensure your adventure concludes smoothly and memorably. Depending on your flight schedule, our team will provide a comfortable transfer from your hotel to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Optional activities can be arranged, including cultural experiences, wildlife visits, scenic nature excursions, or relaxation. Extended stays can include safaris or beach holidays to continue your Tanzanian adventure.
- Meals: Not included
Inclusions (What’s included in your Kilimanjaro adventure)
We ensure you are fully supported throughout your trek. Your package includes:
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Transport to and from Marangu Gate
- National Park entry fees, Hut fees, and applicable crater fees
- Rescue fees and emergency support
- Accommodation on the mountain in 4-season tents
- Double-layered sleeping mats (10 cm thick)
- Experienced, friendly guides, cooks, and porters
- Three nutritious meals per day while trekking
- Continuous access to treated and filtered drinking water
- Hot water for washing
- Fair wages for all crew, approved by KINAPA and KIATO
- Government taxes
- Portable oxygen tanks, oximeter, and first-aid equipment
- Portable flush toilet facilities on the mountain
- Official Kilimanjaro climbing summit certificate
- 18% VAT on tour fees & services
Exclusions (What you’ll need to arrange yourself)
To ensure clarity, these items are not included in your trek package:
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Accommodation in Moshi before or after the trek (2 nights)
- Comprehensive travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal trekking equipment such as trekking poles, and other personal gear
- Personal items and toiletries
- Optional excursions, souvenirs, or extra activities outside the itinerary
- For clients arriving at Arusha Airport, an additional $50 for extended transfer
- Gratuities for the mountain crew – Recommended tipping guidelines are $20 per guide, $15 per cook, and $10 per porter per day per group.
Route Quote
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Group size
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1 Pax
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2 – 3 Pax
|
4 -5 Pax
|
6 -7 Pax
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8 - 9 Pax
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10 Pax & Above
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Quote per person
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$1820
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$1672
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$1622
|
$1596
|
$1593
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$1583
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