Trekking to Simba Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Rongai Gate (2,020m/6,627ft) to Simba Camp (2,600m/8,530ft)
Hiking distance: 6km
Hiking time: 3–4hrs
Habitat: Montane Forest
The journey begins with a departure from Arusha to Nalemuru Gate, a trip of approximately 5 hours, where entry formalities are completed. Upon reaching the trailhead, lunch is enjoyed before embarking on a wide path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes, leading into a pine forest that hosts a variety of wildlife. As the forest thins, the first camp is reached at the edge of the moorland zone (2,625m/8,612ft), offering a breathtaking view of the Kenyan plains.

Trekking from Simba Camp to Third Cave

Kilimanjaro National Park - Simba Camp (2,600m/8,530ft) to Second Cave (3,450/11,319ft) to Third Cave (3,800m/12,467ft)
Hiking distance: 13km
Hiking Time: 9-10hrs
Habitat: Moorland
The trail continues out of the forest into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock adorned with lichen beards. Ascending through lush rolling hills and crossing several streams, the journey reaches the First Cave, then the Second Cave for a hot lunch before proceeding to the Third Cave. The view of Kibo Peak is truly spectacular.

Trekking to Kibo Hut Camp

Kilimanjaro National Park - Third Cave (3800m/12,467) – Kibo Camp (4,720m/14,930ft)
Hiking Distance: 12km
Hiking Time: 6-7hrs
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The steady ascent continues, soon reaching the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo. Kibo Camp, at an elevation of 4,720m, is reached by midday. The rest of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final rewarding ascent the following day.

Summit Day!

Kilimanjaro National Park - Hiking Distance: 16.5km
Hiking Time: 11hrs up and down
Habitat: Ice Cap
An early start is essential, setting off by the light of head-torches on a zigzag trail over rough volcanic scree. It is a challenging 5 to 6-hour climb of nearly 1000 meters to the crater rim at Gillman’s Point (5,685m), a perfect spot to rest and watch the sunrise over Mawenzi. A further 2-hour round trip leads to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Typically, the early morning offers clear conditions with panoramic views over the crater, Mawenzi, and Mount Meru (4565m), appearing small below. This part of the route traverses a moonscape of volcanic rock and remnant glaciers with impressive ice cliffs. After admiring the summit views and capturing the obligatory summit photos, the achievement is celebrated. The path is retraced around the crater rim for a rapid descent to Kibo Hut (4700m).

Descend to Marangu Gate 1800

Kilimanjaro National Park - Horombo Camp (3,720m/12,205ft) to Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,906ft)
Hiking Distance: 19km
Hiking Time: 6-7hrs
Habitat: Montane forest
Descending from Horombo, more vegetation is encountered, and the lower part of the route passes through a pine forest. The traditional first camping place on the Marangu Route at the Mandara Huts is passed, continuing the descent to Marangu Gate (1800m).

A fond farewell is bid to the trusty guide, staff, and porters who have assisted throughout the week, and ascent certificates are collected. Lunch is shared with the Mountain Crew before transferring to the hotel.

For climbers with flights to catch, a drive back to the office in Arusha allows for a quick shower and short rest before being transferred to the respective airport for inbound or outbound flights.

• All meals included, featuring lunch, dinner, and breakfast
• Comfortable Mess tents with table and chairs for dining
• Quality, waterproof, four-season private sleeping tents
• Clean, purified drinking water provided
• All Park and Rescue fees covered
• Guidance from professional, experienced mountain guides

• Personal climbing gear
• Tips
• Visas

The Rongai Route, starting from Kilimanjaro’s northern side, is a pathway less frequented by climbers. It offers a unique opportunity to see the Mawenzi Volcano (Kilimanjaro’s second-highest point) and the impressive saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peak. The challenge is in the lengthy car journey to the park, which involves passing through the Marangu gate for a permit.

Due to the quiet and untouched wilderness that the route crosses, it brings a sense of solitude. The trek commences near the Kenya border, summits through the Marangu route and Gilimans point, and descends via the Marangu route. We propose three variations of the Rongai journey: 5, 6, or 7-day treks; we particularly suggest the 7-day trek for effective acclimatization.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.