7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route

Arrival Day

• Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) greeted by a friendly SafariBando representative.
• Transfer comfortably to your accommodation at Endelea Lodge in Moshi (overnight stay with breakfast).
• Relax and enjoy amenities like a swimming pool and Wi-Fi.
• Attend an evening briefing with experienced managers to ensure you're prepared for the climb.

Day 1: Nale Moru Gate – Simba Camp (2,635m)

• Depart Moshi for a 4-5 hour drive through coffee plantations and villages to Nale Moru Gate in Kilimanjaro National Park.
• Enjoy the scenic wooded terrain and winding trails while your guide shares insights on local flora and fauna.
• Hike for 3-4 hours, gaining 638m in elevation, to Simba Camp near the first cave, offering spectacular views of Kenya's plains.
• Expect cooler temperatures at this higher altitude.

Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp (3,487m)

• After breakfast, embark on a consistent ascent along the moorland path.
• Hike for 5-6 hours, gaining 852m in elevation, enjoying views of Kibo and glimpses of the eastern crater rim's ice fields.
• Second Cave Camp awaits you amidst thinning moorland shrubs. Temperatures will continue to drop.

Day 3: Second Cave Camp – Kikelewa Camp (3,675m)

• Following breakfast, continue your steady ascent across the moorland towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi.
• This shorter day brings you closer to the eastern ice fields, offering breathtaking scenery.
• Be mindful of your body and inform your guide of any altitude sickness symptoms.
• After 2-3 hours and 188m of elevation gain, you'll reach Kikelewa Camp.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn (4,302m)

• Today's short but steeper climb rewards you with superb views.
• Leave the vegetation behind as you reach Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi.
• The afternoon is free for rest or exploring the area to aid acclimatization.
• Optional Acclimatization Day: If you choose a longer itinerary, you'll spend two nights here, with an acclimatization hike around Mawenzi.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut (4,714m)

• Cross the lunar-like "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the foot of the Kibo crater wall.
• The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the summit push on the following night.

Day 6: Summit Day - Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & Descent to Horombo Huts (3,721m)

• Begin your summit attempt with an early morning start (midnight to 2 AM).
• This is the most demanding part of the trek, both mentally and physically.
• Ascend through scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim, witnessing a magnificent sunrise (faster hikers may see it from the summit).
• Continue for 1 hour on a snow-covered trail to reach the pinnacle - Uhuru Peak (5,895m)!
• Savor this once-in-a-lifetime achievement, capturing photos and enjoying the moment.
• Descend to Kibo Huts for lunch and a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Huts.
• Gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended for the loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain.
• Celebrate your accomplishment and enjoy your last night on the mountain.

Day 7: Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Moshi (Departure)

• After breakfast, participate in a farewell ceremony with your crew.
• Descend for 6-7 hours to Marangu Gate, stopping at Mandara Huts for lunch (tipping your guides, cooks, and porters is customary).
• Receive your summit certificates at the gate. Expect warmer, wetter, muddier, and steeper terrain. Gaiters and poles are again recommended.
• A vehicle will transfer you back to your Moshi hotel (around 45 minutes).
• Enjoy a well-deserved hot shower, dinner, and celebrate your triumph before departure.

Departure Day

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel.
• Check out by 11:00 AM (late check-out options may be available for an chargers )