Kilimanjaro via the Rongai route: accessible and not very busy

After breakfast, you will depart for a 2-3 hour drive through farmland and picturesque rural villages. Upon arrival at the Rongai Gate, you will complete the formalities to obtain your park entry permits.

The trek begins with a gentle climb, ideal for gradually acclimatizing to the altitude. Along the way, you may spot local wildlife, such as colobus monkeys. Upon arrival at Simba Camp, a hot meal will be served before a well-deserved night's rest.

Altitude: 1950 m - 2600 m

After an early breakfast, you'll set off on a hike through a magnificent moorland landscape. As you ascend, the scenery opens up, offering breathtaking views of the ice fields on the eastern rim of the crater. The trail becomes steeper as you approach Kikelewa Camp, where you'll be greeted by a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. A hot meal awaits, allowing you to enjoy a well-deserved rest and soak in the serenity of the high altitude.

Altitude: 2600 m - 3600 m

After breakfast, we'll set off on today's trek, which is shorter but steeper. We'll continue our ascent through the moorland towards the magnificent, jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite offers a spectacular landscape; wherever you look, the view will be breathtaking. A hot lunch awaits, and you'll have time to acclimatize to the altitude (with rest or a short hike). In the evening, dinner will be served, followed by a debriefing from your guide to inform you about what awaits you the next day.

Pay attention to your body and keep your guide informed of any signs of altitude sickness.

Altitude: 3600 m – 4315 m

After breakfast, you'll set off on a trek across the vast, arid, lunar landscape known as the Saddle, stretching from the Mawenzi peaks to Kibo. The terrain is desolate yet captivating, with rugged views and the summit looming in the distance. Although the trail is long, its gentle incline allows for a steady pace. This is the final stage before the ascent. Enjoy an early dinner to conserve energy. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing, as the climb to Uhuru Peak begins shortly after midnight.

Altitude: 4315 m – 4720 m

Around midnight, you will be woken to begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak. This is the most mentally and physically demanding part of the trek. The climb to Gillman's Point, at 5,685 m, is steep and strenuous, typically taking 6 hours at a steady pace. This challenging section will test your endurance, but your guide will be there to support you. Once you reach Gillman's Point, you will traverse the crater rim towards Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

Weather permitting, you will be rewarded with a splendid sunrise.

After celebrating your incredible achievement, you will descend to Kibo hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo hut for dinner and the night.

Altitude: 4720 m – 5895m – 3720 m

After breakfast, you will continue your descent through the moorland and lush tropical forest to reach the Marangu Gate. Take a moment to admire the final views and reflect on your accomplishment, which will be commemorated with a certificate. From the gate, you will be taken back to Moshi and then dropped off at the Salinero Hotel for a shower and a restful night.

Meals not included

Breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight.