You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) by Kermali Tours representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. Your guide will brief you on your upcoming trek and do an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. Gear which is missing can be rented on this day.

This morning we will drive to the village of Nale Moru for the starting point of the Rongai route. The first stage of the trek is through farmland and pine forests. You may have a chance to see the beautiful Colobus monkeys or if you’re lucky enough, elephants or buffalos en route. Our first camp will be the Simba Camp located at the edge of the moorland zone at 2625m.

• Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,600m (8,530ft)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: Approximately 7km (4.3 miles)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Habitat: Rainforest

We hike from Simba camp up towards Kibo till 3 482m for lunch at First Caves, a distance of 5.8km. After lunch we continued trekking until reaching Kikelelwa Camp at about 3679 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain! Water can be found in an obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find a pool or two. Enjoy dinner and overnight at Kikelelwa camp.

• Elevation: 2,600m (8,530ft) to 3,450m (11,319ft)
• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
• Distance: Approximately 11km (6.8 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Habitat: Moorland

Leaving Second Cave Camp behind, you’ll continue your ascent towards Kikelewa Camp. Today’s trail offers stunning vistas of the rugged terrain, with Kilimanjaro’s iconic peaks looming ever closer. As you hike, you’ll notice the landscape becoming more sparse, dominated by rocky outcrops and alpine desert vegetation. Kikelewa Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,600 meters, provides a picturesque setting for your overnight stay. Take in the breathtaking views and relish the sense of accomplishment as you settle in for the night.

• Elevation: 3,450m (11,319ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft)
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Distance: Approximately 6km (3.7 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek takes you to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro’s second highest summit, Mawenzi. The trail gradually ascends through alpine desert terrain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach Mawenzi Tarn, you’ll be greeted by a pristine alpine lake, set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations. Spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing at camp, taking short walks to further explore the area and prepare for the final push to the summit.

• Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,206ft)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: Approximately 8km (5 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today is the culmination of your journey as you set out for the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. The ascent begins in the early hours of the morning, under the glow of starlight, as you make your way up steep and challenging terrain. As the sun rises, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, you’ll push onward, fueled by determination and the support of your experienced guides. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to savor the incredible sense of achievement and enjoy panoramic views stretching across the vast African plains below. After celebrating your success, begin the descent back to Horombo Hut, where you’ll spend your final night on the mountain, reflecting on the unforgettable experience.

• Elevation: 4,330m (14,206ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
• Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-7 hours descent)
• Distance: Approximately 21km (13 miles)
• Difficulty: Very Challenging
• Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

On the last day of your trek, you’ll descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps back to Marangu Gate. Here, you’ll bid farewell to your guides and porters, who have supported you throughout the journey. After completing the necessary formalities and receiving your summit certificate, you’ll transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can rest and reminisce about your incredible adventure on Kilimanjaro. Take time to explore the local markets, interact with the friendly Tanzanian people, and soak in the vibrant culture before departing for your onward journey.

• Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,860m (6,102ft)
• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
• Distance: Approximately 20km (12.4 miles)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Habitat: Rainforest

Say goodbye to the extraordinary Kilimanjaro trek. We’ll transport you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Alternatively, extend your journey with a thrilling wildlife safari or a peaceful vacation to Zanzibar.