Kilimanjaro via the Rongai route (short version)
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationKilimanjaro / Tanzania
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AgeFrom 12 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions87.5 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
English
Spanish
In a few words
Experience a unique ascent to the roof of Africa by taking the Rongai route , the only path approaching Kilimanjaro from its north side. Less frequented than the classic southern trails, this trek offers a wild and intimate experience, ideal for hikers seeking serenity.
Your adventure begins in the heart of a coniferous forest before traversing an incredible diversity of climatic zones. As you progress along these more arid northern slopes, you'll enjoy spectacular panoramas of the volcanic cones of Mawenzi and Kibo . Imagine waking up to the dawn-bathed peaks, beneath the majestic flight of Bearded Vultures , with the plains of Kenya stretching to the horizon.
The descent via the Marangu road completes this magnificent loop, immersing you in lush tropical vegetation and gardens of giant groundsels. This route, combining safety and a complete change of scenery, is designed for participants aged 12 to 70 who wish to conquer the 5,895-meter peak away from the crowds. A timeless immersion to conquer this legendary Tanzanian summit.
The highlights
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The only route via the unspoiled north face, the Rongai route, takes 6 days.
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A wild and secluded route for an intimate immersion away from the crowds
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Spectacular views of Mawenzi, Kibo and the vast plains of Kenya
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 6h30
- Average distance/day: 11 km
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
English
Spanish
Throughout the trip, you will be accompanied by certified professional guides:
- Mountain guide: experienced and certified by Kilimanjaro National Park for climbing.
- Safari guide: expert in wildlife and flora, with perfect knowledge of national parks.
These guides ensure personalized support, smooth logistics, and an enriching interpretation of the landscapes and nature.
Program
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Arrival in Tanzania and preparations
- Transportation Car - 14h - 45km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) , a representative will greet you and transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy the comforts you need to rest before your adventure, with access to the swimming pool and internet. Rooms are available from 2:00 PM . At the end of the day, you'll participate in a comprehensive briefing with your guides. They will present the itinerary, safety instructions , and check your equipment to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb. For groups, transfers are shared to simplify your logistics. You'll spend your first night there, your mind already on the summit.
Day 1 -
Approach walk to Simba Camp
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 8 km
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your mountain team will meet you at the hotel for a final briefing before you travel by vehicle to the Nalemuru Gate, located at 2020m altitude. After completing the administrative formalities with the national park, you will begin your trek on the north face of Kilimanjaro. The trail winds through a coniferous forest and offers a moderate 8km ascent. It is essential to walk at a steady pace to aid your acclimatization . During these 3 to 4 hours of walking, remember to drink regularly, ideally 4 liters of water throughout the day. Upon your arrival at Simba Camp , at 2671m , the logistics team will have already set up your tents and prepared dinner. If you experience headaches or nausea during the night, do not hesitate to contact your guide immediately.
Day 2 -
Ascent to Kikilewa Camp
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 10 km
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After an early breakfast, you'll leave Simba Camp for a more physically demanding day. You'll hike 10km through landscapes that gradually unfold, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kibo on a clear day. The goal for the day is to reach Kikilewa Camp , located at an altitude of 3630m . This 5- to 6-hour trek is more strenuous due to the elevation gain. Once there, recovery is key to allowing your body to acclimatize to the altitude. Enjoy the afternoon relaxing at the camp while the team takes care of the logistics. A good rest is essential for tackling the next leg of your adventure in the best possible condition.
Day 3 -
Heading towards Mawenzi Tarn and acclimatizing
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 6 km
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You begin the day with a 6km hike towards Mawenzi Tarn Camp , located at an altitude of 4315m . This camp sits at the foot of the Mawenzi volcano, the second highest peak in the massif. After approximately 4 to 5 hours of hiking, you have lunch and enjoy a two-hour rest to conserve your energy. The afternoon is dedicated to a strategic acclimatization hike : you climb an additional 200m towards the Mawenzi volcano to reach 4510m , before descending back to the initial camp to spend the night. This short 2km trek, achievable in 1 or 2 hours , is crucial for stimulating your body and increasing your chances of summiting. You end the day with dinner at the camp, essential for recovery.
Day 4 -
Crossing to Kibo Hut
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 9 km
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your trek continues for 9km towards Kibo Hut , the base camp at 4720m . The landscape changes dramatically, giving way to a stark, mineral alpine desert . While the 5-6 hour hike presents no major technical difficulties, it is essential to maintain a slow pace to conserve your energy. Once at the camp, rest and hydration are the top priorities. We advise you to sleep as much as possible and avoid any unnecessary exertion, as your ascent to the summit, Uhuru Peak , will begin in the middle of the night. This is where your mental and physical preparation for the 5895m summit of Kilimanjaro takes place.
Day 5 -
Final ascent and summit of Kilimanjaro
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 14h
- Distance 21 km
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The trek begins in the dead of night from Kibo Hut for the final push to Uhuru Peak , the highest point at 5895m . Although the trail is not technically challenging, the altitude makes every step demanding. For your safety, you will trek in pairs with a personal guide who will closely monitor your physical condition. After savoring your achievement at the summit and perhaps approaching the nearby glacier, you will begin the descent to Kibo Camp for a well-deserved two-hour rest. The day then continues to Horombo Camp at 3720m . Remain extremely vigilant during this long 21km descent: the accumulated fatigue after 12 to 14 hours of exertion increases the risk of falls or foot injuries.
Day 6 -
End of the adventure and presentation of certificates
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 12 km
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After a hot breakfast at the campsite, you begin your final 18km descent through the rainforest. Your goal is to reach the exit of the national park, the Marangu Gate, located at 1970m altitude. This final 5-6 hour hike allows you to savor the unique atmosphere of Kilimanjaro one last time. Once at the gate, the entire team gathers to congratulate you on your achievement. You have the opportunity to share your impressions in the guestbook before receiving your official certificates of completion. Finally, an organized transfer takes you back to your hotel to enjoy a well-deserved rest after this intense sporting experience.
Day 7 -
Rest and departure
- Transportation Car - 11h - 45km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You can take advantage of this morning to relax at the hotel and savor your last moments in Tanzania. It's the perfect opportunity to soothe your muscles after the climb. Check-out is at 11:00 AM . If your flight departs later in the day, you have the option to extend your stay in your room for an additional fee, depending on your needs. A transfer will then be arranged to take you to the international airport according to your departure time. You leave Africa with unforgettable memories of your sporting challenge on the roof of the continent.
Day 8
Note
The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather conditions, trail accessibility, or for safety reasons. Treks on Kilimanjaro are subject to altitude, climate, and seasonal variations; therefore, the daily schedule may vary to ensure optimal acclimatization and maximize your chances of reaching the summit.
Participants are advised to dress using the three-layer system, carry their own water and snacks, as well as any necessary equipment, and follow the instructions of our professional guides at all times. Rest periods, acclimatization walks, and briefing sessions are included to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Please note that the times, distances, and walking times are approximate and may change depending on the group's pace, the participants' health, and environmental factors. Safety is our top priority.
Accommodation
Ideally located in the heart of the city, the Greenside Hotel Arusha is the perfect starting point for your Kilimanjaro treks, safari excursions, or simply exploring Arusha. The hotel offers a comfortable and relaxing environment with clean and well-maintained rooms, attentive staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy peaceful evenings after their adventures and prepare calmly for the day ahead.
Nestled on the scenic Rongai Route of Mount Kilimanjaro, Simba Camp offers travelers an authentic safari and trekking experience. Each tent is ideally positioned to provide breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, combining adventure and comfort. The camp emphasizes eco-friendly practices while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all its guests. It's the perfect stopover for committed climbers on the Rongai Route or for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
Kikilewa Camp is a haven of peace located on the Rongai Route of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering travelers the perfect balance between adventure and serenity. Nestled amidst pristine landscapes, the camp provides a complete immersion in the wilderness thanks to its comfortable and well-appointed tents. Guests enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain and the surrounding savannah, making it an ideal stop for hikers, nature lovers, and safari enthusiasts. The camp prioritizes eco-friendly practices while maintaining high standards of comfort and safety.
Perched on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro along the Rongai Route, Mawenzi Tarn Camp is a high-altitude bivouac offering trekkers a truly immersive mountain experience. The camp features comfortable and well-equipped tents with spectacular views of the Mawenzi peaks and surrounding alpine landscapes. Designed for adventurers, it combines essential comforts with the authenticity of a wilderness stay. The camp has a team of experienced guides and porters to ensure a safe and memorable trek.
Kibo Hut Camp is a high-altitude stop on the Rongai Route of Mount Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers essential comforts and breathtaking mountain views. Located at the foot of Kibo Peak, this camp serves as the final rest stop before the final ascent to the summit. Guests stay in sturdy, elevated tents designed to provide safety and protection from the harsh high-altitude weather conditions, while also allowing for complete immersion in this alpine environment. This camp is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking a balance of adventure, comfort, and a strategic location for the final push.
Horombo Camp is a central stop on the Rongai Route on Mount Kilimanjaro, situated at an altitude of approximately 3,720 meters. It offers trekkers a comfortable base for acclimatization before ascending to the higher camps. The camp combines the adventure of high-altitude trekking with practical amenities, providing guests with sturdy and secure tents, panoramic views of the Kilimanjaro alpine plateau, and the support of experienced guides and staff.
The Greenside Hotel Arusha is a comfortable 3-star hotel ideally located on Nelson Mandela Road in the heart of Arusha. It's the perfect base for your stay before or after a safari. The hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere with comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and easy access to local shops and restaurants. Guests enjoy a safe, clean, and welcoming environment before embarking on their Kilimanjaro climb or beginning their safari adventure.
Access
After meeting your guide and the support team at the hotel, you will receive a safety briefing and an overview of the day's itinerary. Transfers to the official trek starting point are included. We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and carrying water and your personal belongings for the day. You will also receive advice on altitude acclimatization and safety instructions for this first leg of the trek.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- All ground transport mentioned (private 4x4 safari vehicle with sunroof)
- Full support: certified French/English speaking guide for the trek and professional driver-guide for the safaris
- The logistics team during Kilimanjaro: porters, cooks, camping equipment
- Entrance fees and camping charges in national parks and on Kilimanjaro
- Accommodation in lodges, hotels and camps mentioned or equivalent (based on double room/shared tent)
- Full board throughout the stay (breakfast, packed or hot lunch, dinner)
- Drinking water during treks and safaris
- Group trekking equipment (tents, tables, chairs, dishes)
- Emergency assistance and basic medical monitoring during the trek (oximeter, first aid kit)
The price does not include
- International flights and airport taxes
- The Tanzanian visa (USD 50 upon arrival)
- Tips for guides, porters and drivers (highly recommended)
- Drinks not included (sodas, alcoholic beverages, fresh juices in lodge/hotel)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, phone calls)
- Mandatory NIC Inbound Travel Insurance: USD 44 (approx. €39) per adult
Options
- 2-day Ngorongoro Excursion: Sunrise over the Ridges : CHF1’431.66 / person
- Great Migration and River Crossings in the Serengeti : CHF1’513.08 / person
- Safari in the national parks: Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater : CHF824.23 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- High-altitude tents (spacious, wind and rain resistant)
- Floor mattress (for optimal comfort)
- Balanced meals prepared by the kitchen team
- Full logistical support: porters, experienced guides and medical/first aid assistance
Equipment to bring
- Hiking poles
- Daypack (20–30 L) for water, snacks and personal belongings
- Headlamp with spare batteries (for night climbs)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen (high SPF)
- Lip balm with UV protection
- Water bottles or hydration system (3–4 liters per day)
- Sleeping bag (suitable for sub-zero temperatures)
- Camera (to capture the scenery)
Clothing to bring
- Thermal underwear (top and bottom for cold nights at altitude)
- Long and short-sleeved T-shirts (breathable, quick-drying)
- Fleece or wool jacket (for evenings and hikes at medium altitude)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (essential in tropical rainforests and at high altitudes)
- Trekking trousers (lightweight, durable, comfortable)
- Shorts (for warmer stages at lower altitudes)
- Hat or cap (sun protection)
- Warm, lightweight gloves (for cold nights at the summit)
- Trekking socks (several pairs, including thermal ones)
- Trekking shoes (high-top, waterproof, already broken in before the trip)
- Sandals or light shoes (for the camp and after hikes)
