10 Day Trip | Climb Kilimanjaro Via 7 Day Rongai Route

7 Day Lemosho

Overview | Map

Overview

This 10-day itinerary features a 7-day trek via the scenic and less-crowded Rongai Route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Ascending from the north, the route passes through diverse ecological zones and includes an acclimatisation day at Mawenzi Tarn before summiting via Gilman’s Point. Descent is via the Marangu Route. Two additional days for arrival and departure ensure proper rest and transition.

Day by Day

Day 1 :

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our expert Tanzania guide will be there to welcome you. You’ll be transferred to your hotel for a relaxing break after your flight. Later, you’ll meet your guide who will provide an orientation, offering advice on what to pack, what to wear, and tips to make your climb as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Day 2 :

Nale Moru Gate to Simba Camp

Start Elevation: 1,950 m / 6,398 ft
End Elevation: 2,671 m / 8,764 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Hiking Time: 3–5 hours
Climate Zone: Forests
Depart after breakfast for a long drive to the Rongai Gate on the northeastern side of Kilimanjaro. After registration and lunch, begin your trek through farmland and pine plantations. The trail ascends gently through the forest to Simba Camp.

Day 3 :

Simba Camp to Kikelewa Caves

Start Elevation: 2,671 m / 8,764 ft
End Elevation: 3,600 m / 11,812 ft
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Hiking Time: 8–10 hours
Climate Zone: Heath
Today’s hike is long and gradual. You pass Second Cave (3,450 m / 11,319 ft) with stunning views of the Eastern Icefields before heading off the main trail toward Mawenzi. The trail winds through open moorland to reach Kikelewa Caves.

Day 4 :

Kikelewa Caves to Mawenzi Tarn

Start Elevation: 3,600 m / 11,812 ft
End Elevation: 4,315 m / 14,158 ft
Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Climate Zone: Alpine Desert
A short but steep hike takes you up to the Mawenzi Tarn campsite, nestled beneath the dramatic peaks of Mawenzi. After lunch, take a short acclimatisation hike with your guide.

Day 5 :

Acclimatisation at Mawenzi Tarn

Start & End Elevation: 4,315 m / 14,158 ft
Distance: 4 km / 2 miles
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Climate Zone: Alpine Desert
Enjoy a rest and acclimatisation day at Mawenzi Tarn. Your guide will lead you on a gentle hike to higher elevations before returning to camp. This day is vital for adapting to the altitude.

Day 6 :

Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Start Elevation: 4,315 m / 14,158 ft
End Elevation: 4,720 m / 15,486 ft
Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Climate Zone: Alpine Desert
Cross the lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt. After lunch, rest and prepare for the midnight ascent.

Day 7 :

Summit Bid – Uhuru Peak & Descend to Horombo Hut

Start Elevation: 4,720 m / 15,486 ft
Uhuru Peak Elevation: 5,985 m / 19,341 ft
End Elevation: 3,720 m / 12,205 ft
Distance: 21 km / 13 miles
Hiking Time: 13–17 hours
Climate Zones: Alpine Desert / Arctic / Heath
Begin your summit push just after midnight. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,681 m / 18,638 ft) around sunrise, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Celebrate your success and descend back to Kibo for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut.

Day 8 :

Descent to Marangu Gate and Transfer to Hotel

Start Elevation: 3,720 m / 12,205 ft
End Elevation: 1,879 m / 6,164 ft
Distance: 19 km / 12 miles
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Climate Zones: Heath / Forest
Descend through the moorland and forest to Marangu Gate. After formalities and farewells, you are transferred back to your lodge for a well-deserved shower and rest.

Day 9 :

International Departure

Depending on your flight time, enjoy a relaxed morning before being transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey home.

Day 10 :

Arrive Home

Arrive Home.
Still longing for more? It's also possible to add a few days of safari or a beach holiday to your Kilimanjaro adventure!

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From $0

/ Adult

Why don’t we offer low-season rates?

For safety reasons, we do not operate climbs during the rainy season. Park fees remain the same year-round, and the best times to climb are during the dry seasons from December to mid-March and June to October, with January, February, July, August, September, and October being the most ideal.

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