7 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

This 7-day trek takes you on an unforgettable journey up Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route, a quieter and less crowded path on the mountain. Starting on Kilimanjaro’s northern side near the Kenyan border, the route offers a unique perspective and a chance to enjoy the mountain’s landscapes away from the busier trails. After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by a driver and transferred to La Mama Hotel for a relaxing overnight stay, where you will also receive a pre-trek briefing from your guides.

The adventure begins at the remote Rongai Gate, leading you through a variety of ecosystems—from green pine forests and open moorlands to the stark, lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. As the trek progresses, you’ll spend nights at carefully selected camps that help your body acclimatize, making the climb safer and more comfortable. The final push takes you to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, where you can celebrate reaching the summit before beginning the descent through scenic forest trails.

After completing the trek, you’ll return to La Mama Hotel to relax and recover from the climb. If you wish to continue exploring Tanzania, you can also add a wildlife safari or a beach escape in Zanzibar, turning your Kilimanjaro trek into a well-rounded travel experience.

Price From

$ 2,544

Per Person

Price From

$ 2,325

Per Person

Price From

$ 2,246

Per Person

Price From

$ 2,188

Per Person

Day 1

Arrival

When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a friendly driver will be waiting to greet you, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. After a warm welcome, you will be transferred comfortably to La Mama Hotel, where you can relax after your journey.

Once you reach the hotel, a delicious meal will be served. Later, your guide and experienced mountain coordinators will meet you for a pre-trek briefing. During this session, you will learn important details about the climb and have the chance to ask any questions about the adventure ahead.

La Mama Hotel offers a peaceful and comfortable setting to unwind. You can enjoy the swimming pool, stroll through the lovely garden, or relax at the bar and restaurant while preparing for the exciting journey that awaits.

Overnight

La Mama Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

Day 2

Moshi to Rongai Gate | Simba Camp

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll begin a 2–3 hour drive to the Rongai Gate, traveling through scenic countryside dotted with farms and small villages. Once you reach the gate, you’ll complete the necessary registration before starting your trek. The trail winds through cultivated fields and pine forests, with a steady but gentle climb that helps your body gradually adjust to the altitude. As you walk, keep an eye out for wildlife such as colobus monkeys moving through the trees. The calm and quiet environment makes for a wonderful introduction to the varied landscapes of Kilimanjaro. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Simba Camp where a warm meal will be prepared, giving you time to relax and rest before the adventure continues the next day with the support of the team from Claris Tours & Travel.

Altitude : 1,950 meters (6,398 feet) – 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
Hiking Distance : 8 km
Hiking Time : 3-4 hours

Day 3

Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Climb gradually toward the Second Cave, where you will stop for lunch. After the break, continue trekking across the moorland along a narrower trail that leads toward the rugged peaks of Mawenzi. This stretch of the journey offers sweeping views and a peaceful, remote atmosphere that makes the experience even more memorable.

After covering around 10 km, you will arrive at Kikelewa Camp, set in a sheltered valley surrounded by towering giant Senecio plants and close to the Kikelewa Cave. The camp is an excellent place to rest and adjust to the increasing altitude. Spend some time relaxing, taking in the beautiful surroundings, and getting yourself ready for the next stage of the climb.

Altitude : 2,600 meters (8,528 feet) – 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
Hiking Distance : 10 km
Hiking Time : 5-6 hours

Day 4

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut

Today’s hike is shorter but noticeably steeper as the trail winds across grassy slopes toward the beautiful Mawenzi Tarn, located beneath the dramatic cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The campsite sits in a spectacular setting, surrounded by rugged landscapes and incredible views in every direction. Once you arrive, a hot lunch will be prepared, giving you time to rest and take in the scenery. You may also choose to go on a short acclimatization walk to help your body adjust to the altitude. Later in the evening, dinner will be served, and your guide will share a brief overview of the next day’s journey as you prepare to continue climbing to higher elevations.

Altitude : 3,600 meters (11,810 feet) – 4,315 meters (14,157 feet)
Hiking Distance : 6 km
Hiking Time : 3-4 hours

Day 5

Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn

This extra day at Mawenzi Tarn plays an important role in helping your body acclimatize to the altitude. During the day, you can take a short hike toward Mawenzi Peak, which offers an excellent opportunity to adjust gradually to the thinner air while enjoying the dramatic mountain scenery around you. The hike not only provides beautiful views but also helps your body adapt to the increasing elevation, preparing you for the more demanding sections of the trek ahead.

After the hike, return to Mawenzi Tarn where you can relax and recover. Taking time to rest here is important for rebuilding energy before continuing toward Kibo Hut. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy, as proper hydration and rest will make a big difference when it comes time for your summit push. The trek is guided by experienced teams such as those from Claris Tours & Travel, who ensure the journey is well-paced and comfortable for trekkers.

Altitude : 4,330 meters (14,200 feet))

Day 6

Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut

After breakfast, you’ll set out on a trek across the vast, barren landscape known as the “Saddle,” which lies between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. The area has a striking, almost lunar appearance, with wide open views and the summit visible in the distance. Although the distance is considerable, the trail follows a gradual incline, making it possible to keep a comfortable and steady pace as you move closer to the final stage of the climb.

Once you reach Kibo Hut, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit push. Your guide will brief you on the upcoming ascent, as the journey toward Uhuru Peak begins shortly after midnight.

Altitude : 4,315 meters (14,157 feet) – 4,720 meters (15,486 feet)
Hiking Distance : 8 km
Hiking Time : 5-6 hours

Day 7

Kibo Hut | Summit Attempt | Horombo Hut

Around midnight, you’ll be woken up to start the final push toward Uhuru Peak. The climb to Gillman’s Point (5,685 meters) is steep and demanding, usually taking about six hours of slow, steady trekking. This part of the journey can be tough, but your guide will be there to encourage and support you along the way.

Once you reach Gillman’s Point, you’ll continue along the crater rim toward Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. If the weather is clear, you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise spreading across the landscape below. After taking in the moment and celebrating your achievement at the summit, you’ll begin the descent back to Kibo Hut for a short rest. Later, you’ll continue down to Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend the night and recover from the incredible climb.

Altitude : 4,700 meters (15,419 feet) – 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) – 3,720 meters (12,205 feet)
Hiking Distance : 22 km
Hiking Time : 12-15 hours

Day 8

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate | Return to Moshi

After breakfast, you’ll begin your descent, passing once again through the striking moorland and lush rainforest zones on your way back to Marangu Gate. As you make your way down the mountain, take a moment to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the incredible achievement of reaching the summit. When you arrive at the gate, you’ll receive your well-deserved summit certificate to celebrate your accomplishment.

From there, you’ll be transferred back to La Mama Hotel in Moshi, where a warm meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed will be waiting for you. If you’d like to continue your journey in Tanzania, the team at Claris Tours & Travel can help arrange additional experiences, such as an exciting wildlife safari or a relaxing getaway to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar.

Altitude : 3,720 meters (12,205 feet) – 1,830 meters (6,004 feet)
Hiking Distance : 20 km
Hiking Time : 6-7 hours

Day 9

Departure Day

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward departure. If you’d like to extend your trip, you can add an extra day to explore some nearby attractions or experience more of the local culture. You can check the available options on our Day Trip page for inspiration.

Another great option is to continue your journey with a visit to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Known for its white sandy beaches and vibrant cultural heritage, the island offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Take a look at our Zanzibar page to find a package that suits your travel plans.

If you’re interested in experiencing Tanzania’s incredible wildlife, you may also consider adding a safari to your itinerary.

Important Travel Information

Destination Location

Mount Kilimanjaro stands proudly in northeastern Tanzania, just three degrees south of the Equator. It is Africa’s highest peak and the tallest free-standing mountain in the world.

Among the legendary Seven Summits, Kilimanjaro is considered one of the most accessible. It doesn’t require technical climbing skills, and with proper preparation and determination, any reasonably fit person has a strong chance of reaching the summit.

Is This Trip for You?

If you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a representative from Claris Tours & Travel will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

We highly recommend arriving at least one day before your climb begins so you can rest and adjust. If you’re travelling from Nairobi, that travel day can also serve as your rest day.

If time allows, you can:

Take a guided walk through local rice fields and rainforest areas
Explore the town of Moshi and enjoy some shopping
Relax by the hotel pool
Treat yourself to a soothing massage

The evening before your trek, your guide will conduct a detailed briefing. You’ll need to separate your trekking gear from your main luggage. Rental equipment is available if needed, and any extra bags can be safely stored in a secure room at your hotel in Moshi at no additional cost.

The Start of Your Trek

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head to the trekking office for final preparations. Depending on your chosen route, the drive to the trailhead may take up to an hour and can be a bit bumpy — but that’s all part of the adventure!

At the park gate, climbers complete registration formalities before beginning the journey. Meanwhile, porters organize supplies including food, water, and camping equipment. Be sure you have everything you need in your daypack, as porters move quickly ahead. Your guide will always be available to answer questions and assist you.

A Typical Day on the Mountain

Most hiking days begin between 8:00 and 9:00 AM and last about 5–6 hours. The pace is intentionally slow and steady to allow your body to acclimatize properly. You’ll often hear your guides say “pole pole” (pronounced po-leh po-leh), which means “slowly” in Swahili — the golden rule of Kilimanjaro climbing.

Lower slopes are lush and vibrant, filled with rainforest beauty. As you climb higher, the landscape opens into dramatic alpine scenery with breathtaking panoramic views. Evenings at camp are quiet, offering the perfect opportunity to rest, reflect, and capture unforgettable photos.

Summit Night

Summit attempts typically begin around midnight, depending on your route and your group’s pace. You’ll climb as high as you comfortably can. Some trekkers choose to stop at the crater rim, while others continue all the way to the highest point.

After celebrating your achievement, your guides will lead you down promptly to reduce the risk of altitude-related issues. You’ll descend past your previous campsite and continue to the next camp for an overnight stay.

Optional Acclimatization Day

You can add an extra acclimatization day at Horombo Huts (3,690 m / 12,100 ft). This allows you to spend a full extra day and night there.

On this day, you may:

Rest and recover at the huts
Take a scenic walk toward the base of Mawenzi Peak
Gain a deeper understanding of the mountain’s weather and altitude conditions

This additional day significantly improves acclimatization and increases your summit success rate before continuing to Kibo Huts for your summit push.

Travel Companions

Group sizes are kept small, typically between 5–7 climbers, to ensure personalized attention. If travelers are starting the same route on the same day, groups may be combined up to this limit.

Private climbs can also be arranged at no extra cost. While we try to match solo travelers with groups whenever possible, it cannot be guaranteed. Large groups can also be accommodated upon request.

Guides & Support Team

Climbing Kilimanjaro requires a licensed local guide, and Claris Tours & Travel works with experienced professionals fluent in English, Spanish, French, and German.

Your support team includes:

Lead guide
Assistant guides
Cook
Porters

Porters carry your main luggage, food, and camping equipment — you’ll only need to carry a daypack with personal essentials.

Tipping Guidelines

After your trek, you’ll receive an envelope at your hotel for distributing tips. You may tip in U.S. dollars, Euros, Tanzanian shillings, or a mix of currencies. Small bills are helpful for individual tipping. There’s no need to carry cash up the mountain.

$15 per day for guides
$10 per day for assistant guides and cooks
$7 per day for porters
1 guide per 8 climbers
1 assistant guide per 3 climbers
1 cook per 8 climbers
5-day Marangu Route: 2 porters per climber (minimum 4)
6–7 day treks: 3 porters per climber (minimum 5)
8-day Lemosho Route: 4 porters per climber (minimum 8)
For a 6-day trek, budget approximately $200 per climber for tips.

Porters and guides also deeply appreciate practical gifts such as warm clothing, hiking boots, or backpacks. Many climbers enjoy inviting their guides to dinner or drinks after the climb as a personal thank-you.

Transportation

Except for international airfare, Claris Tours & Travel includes all in-country transportation and logistical arrangements. This covers airport and hotel transfers, transport for all scheduled activities, and equipment.

Money & Currency

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. While U.S. dollars, Euros, and credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and stores, you’ll often receive a better exchange rate when paying in local currency.

ATMs are available in major towns such as Moshi and Arusha, but access may be limited in smaller areas, so plan accordingly.

Recommended Gear List

Kilimanjaro Climber’s Packing List Notes

The pack that the porters carry is limited to 15 kg (35 pounds) - (Overweight or extra luggage will require an extra porter at $5/day)
Store electronics in sealed waterproof bags (double sealed if possible)
Wrap clothing in plastic bags
In the day pack, take along water, sunglasses, a camera, binoculars, rain pants, and a jacket at a minimum.
Add any other items you might need during the day, since you may not see your porters until the end of the day.
Claris Tours & Travel is interested in purchasing second-hand gear for rentals.
You may want to bring some older items of warm clothing as gifts for your guides and porters or donations to the Mount Kilimanjaro Porters Society.
You can leave extra luggage in a locked storage room at the Springlands Hotel for no charge.
You can leave valuables in a safe deposit box at the Springlands Hotel for $1/day.

Baggage

Day pack, for you to carry
Large duffel bag or backpack, for porters to carry
Plastic bags

Clothing

You want your inner layer to be wicking – no cotton
Your next layer should be insulating and warm, and your top layer should be waterproof but breathable.
You will need clothes for hiking during the day, lounging in the evening, and sleeping.
Layers are important as temperatures vary greatly.
Kilimanjaro may be near the equator, but it gets cold up there!

Shorts, for the first and last day only
Pants, for hiking and for lounging in the evenings
Short-sleeved or t-shirts
Long-sleeved shirts, for hiking and for lounging in the evenings
Long underwear
Fleece jacket or wool sweater
Fleece pants
Down jacket or ski parka (for temperatures well below freezing plus wind)
Rain jacket, needed in hot rainforest and cold snow
Rain pants are needed in hot rainforests and cold snow
Underwear
Sports bras, for women

Cold Weather Accessories

Mittens and/or gloves (waterproof, one thin pair, one thick pair that can be layered)
Wool or pile hat
Balaclava or neck gaitor
Hand and foot warmers (chemical-activated)

Footwear

Be sure to break in your shoes before the hike!
Trekking shoes for hiking during the day, preferrably warm, waterproof, and with ankle-support – not too light and not too heavy
Tennis shoes or sandals for lounging in the evening
Gaiters
Hiking socks for warmer conditions
Wool socks for colder conditions
Sock liners to wick away moisture

Sleeping

Sleeping bag (Rated -25 degrees C/-10 degrees F or colder is recommended)
Sleeping pad and repair kit
Tents are supplied by Claris Tours & Travel at no charge
Foam sleeping pads are provided by Claris Tours & Travel at no charge (Thermarest is highly recommended, however)

Other

Water bottles and Camelback (2-3)
- Get 3 litres of bottled water before the trip (available at the Springlands Hotel).
  Your guides will boil water for you along the route or use Steripens for water sanitisation.
- To prevent water from freezing on summit day, keep your water source inside your jacket.
  For Camelbacks, blow air back into the bladder after each sip and drink often.
- Gatorade or other drink mix helps with taste and minerals.
Water filter or iodine purification tablets
Sun hat with brim
Sunglasses
Bandana
Money ($400 or more in cash and/or travellers cheques, including some small U.S.A, Euro, or Tanzanian bills)
Ski or trekking poles
Headlamp or flashlight
Camera, film, tripod
Video camera, tapes
Batteries
- Bring extra sets for headlamp/flashlight and camera, as cold weather shortens their life
Binoculars
Notebook, journal, pencil, and pen
Pocket knife
Electricity adapter
Energy bars, hard candy, snacks, and comfort foods
Playing cards, games, books, frisbee, football, kite
Chocolate or pens for village children, momentos for guides, porters, and other climbers
An umbrella, particularly useful in the rainy season, can be purchased in the market for around $2
Plastic bags and zip-lock bags for waterproofing
Sewing kit
Salt, pepper, and spices for bland food
Business cards
Alarm clock
Calculator (for currency conversion)
Swim suit for hotel swimming pool

Toiletries

Toilet paper (and a baggie to carry used paper while on the trail)
Small towel
Soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Handi-wipes (moist towelettes for cleaning)
Hand sanitizer
Lotion
Glasses, contacts, solution (take contacts out each night to prevent blurred vision)
Comb, mirror

Documents

Passport
Yellow fever certificate
Visa
Medical insurance
Address book
Vaccination records
Airline tickets
Cash, travellers' cheques, credit cards
Maps, guidebooks
Make copies of passport, TZ visa, airline tickets/schedule, and travellers' cheques numbers.
Leave a copy with someone at home and put a copy in a separate place in your luggage.

First Aid

Ibuprofin, Aceteminophen, or Aspirin
Throat lozenges
Bandaids
Moleskin
Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
Lip balm with sunscreen
Insect repellent
Disinfectant, Antiseptic cream
Bandages and tape
Diarrhoea medicine
Antihistemines
Ace bandage
Melatonin (1-3mg) or other sleep aid
Malaria pills (talk to your doctor)
Antibiotics (talk to your doctor)
Prescription drugs (talk to your doctor)
Diamox (talk to your doctor)

Gifts for Guides, Porters, Locals

Shoes
Any warm clothing
T-shirts
Hats
Nerf football, frisbees
Candy
Pens

Packing for your flight to Africa

U-shaped neck pillow (blow-up)
Books/magazines
Toiletries
Snacks
Water
Walkman and music
Eye shades, ear plugs
Melatonin or other sleep aid
Critical climbing gear (in case baggage is delayed)

Departure Location

Springlands Hotel, Pembo Road, Moshi, Tanzania

Pickup Locations

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Cancellation Information

Cancellation Policy – Claris Tours & Travel

If you need to cancel your booking or are unable to join your scheduled tour, the following cancellation terms will apply:

If we receive your written cancellation 30 days or more before departure, Claris Tours & Travel will retain 20% of your booking amount, and the remaining balance will be refunded to you.
If your cancellation is made between 14 and 29 days before departure, 50% of the total package cost will be retained.
If you cancel less than 14 days before departure, unfortunately, 100% of the total package cost will be retained, and any outstanding balance must be paid immediately.

If you are able to find someone to take your place at least 14 days before departure, and that person completes a new booking form individually, no cancellation charges will apply to you.

However, if no replacement is arranged by 14 days prior to departure, a 100% cancellation fee will be charged.

Please note that Claris Tours & Travel, along with its representatives, reserves the right to end the participation of any traveler during the tour at their discretion and with immediate effect if necessary.

Reservation Information

Booking & Payment Information

To secure your reservation with Claris Tours & Travel, a 20% deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before your arrival date.

We gladly accept Visa, AMEX, and Mastercard. If you prefer, you may also transfer funds directly to our bank account via wire transfer.

Before confirming your booking, please take a moment to review our Cancellation Policy outlined below.

Price Adjustments

Our quoted prices remain valid unless changes or add-ons are requested. If you choose to modify your itinerary or add extra services, the total cost may be adjusted accordingly. Any requested changes will be clearly communicated and confirmed by Claris Tours & Travel before proceeding.

Required Travel Documents

To ensure a smooth journey, all passengers are responsible for preparing the following:

A valid VISA (see details below)
A signed waiver form (to be returned to us)
A passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel date

Please note that entry into a country is ultimately determined by immigration authorities. Even with complete documentation, entry may be refused at their discretion.

VISA Information for Tanzania

Visitors can obtain a visa upon arrival at:

Dar es Salaam International Airport
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Zanzibar International Airport
Border posts at Namanga, Tunduma, Taveta, and Holili

Visa fees are as follows:

Canadian passport holders: US$50 for an ordinary visa
United States passport holders: US$100 for an ordinary visa
EU passport holders: US$50 or €50 for an ordinary visa

For the most current visa updates, we recommend checking with the relevant Tanzanian immigration authorities prior to travel.

Living Standards

Travelling abroad can be a beautiful cultural experience. However, living standards, infrastructure, utilities, and accommodation conditions may differ from what you are accustomed to at home. We encourage guests to travel with an open mind and flexible expectations.

Travel Insurance

For your peace of mind, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This should cover medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss, and other unforeseen travel issues.

We recommend exploring options through trusted travel insurance providers to ensure you have adequate coverage before departure.

Cancellation Policy

Once your deposit has been received and your reservation confirmed, the Claris Tours & Travel cancellation policy applies.

If you need to cancel your booking, the following terms will apply:

30 days or more prior to departure:
20% of the reservation cost will be retained. The remaining balance will be refunded.
14–29 days prior to departure:
50% of the total package price will be retained.
Less than 14 days prior to departure:
100% of the total package price will be retained, and any outstanding payments will become immediately due.

If you are able to find a replacement traveler at least 14 days before departure and they complete the booking process independently, no cancellation fee will apply. However, if a replacement is not secured by that time, a 100% cancellation charge will be enforced.

Claris Tours & Travel reserves the right to terminate a guest’s participation in a tour at its discretion if necessary.

Refund Processing Fees

Please note the following processing fees:

A 3% credit card processing fee will be deducted when refunds are issued to Visa, AMEX, or Mastercard.
For refunds processed via bank wire transfer, applicable bank charges will apply.

Disclaimer of Liability

We kindly ask you to carefully review all trip details before travel. If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact us directly:

info@claristourandtravel.com
+255 744 631 646

Thank you for choosing Claris Tours & Travel. We truly appreciate your trust in us and look forward to welcoming you on an unforgettable adventure!

Included
Excluded

Two nights’ accommodation at the La Mama Hotel in Moshi, double or triple occupancy (before and after the climb)
- First night includes breakfast
- Last night included dinner & breakfast
Qualified guides with mountain crew
National park fees
Hut/camping fees and tents
Tents, foam sleeping pads, cooking equipment, and (Cutlery / Crockery) eating utensils.
Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
Pulse oximeters
First aid kit
Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
Boiled water on the mountain
Airport transfers (JRO – Kilimanjaro International Airport)
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Guides, porters, waiter, cook, accommodation and entry fees on the mountain

Single room supplement at Springlands Hotel.
Guides, Porters, Cook & Waiters’ tips.
Meals and drinks not specified.
Mountain equipment (e.g., sleeping bags).
Gear for your climb. Some equipment is available for rent.
Car Supplement USD$145 per car for clients who go through the Lemosho/Rongai/Shira Routes.
Items of a personal nature (expenses).
Emergency Oxygen.
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights are included.
Extra activities (waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
Visa fees.
Travel insurance.
Flight tickets.