7-Day Big Time Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival-Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet your Big Time Adventures guide for a scenic 40 km transfer to your Arusha hotel. Rolling hills, banana plantations, and Maasai villages pass by, with Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak greeting you on clear days. At the hotel, enjoy a nutritious dinner and attend a pre-trek briefing covering the itinerary, safety, gear checks, and acclimatization tips. Rest well and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Main Destination:

Arusha (City)

Accommodation:

Four Points by Sheraton Arusha Hotel

• Luxury hotel located in Arusha (City)

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+13 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

• Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Arusha - Nalemoru Gate - Simba Camp

After breakfast, depart for Rongai Gate via a scenic 120 km drive through farmland, acacia woodlands, and Maasai villages. Register with park authorities and begin the trek into lush montane forest, alive with moss-draped trees, tropical birds, and colobus monkeys. Trek 7 km in 3–4 hours to Simba Camp (2,800 m), enjoying gentle ascent and serene surroundings. Guides ensure acclimatization, safety, and share insights into the mountain’s ecology and culture.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

• Near Mt Kilimanjaro

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Simba Camp - Kikelewa Camp

Leave the dense forest behind, ascending 10 km over 5–6 hours into high moorland. Rolling plains are dotted with giant lobelias, heathers, and scattered shrubs, offering sweeping views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Steady pacing promotes acclimatization, with frequent stops for photography and flora appreciation. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m) for a warm meal, rest, and reflection on the day’s trek. Guides provide safety support and ecological insights.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Kikelewa Camp - Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Trek 8 km over 5–6 hours from moorland into the stark alpine desert. The trail passes volcanic ridges and sparse vegetation, revealing dramatic views of Kibo, Mawenzi, and glaciers. Steady pacing ensures acclimatization, with stops for photos and marveling at the rugged terrain. Arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,300 m) to rest, enjoy a hearty meal, and take in the alpine environment. Guides continue to provide safety, altitude monitoring, and education on geology and high-altitude ecology.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Mawenzi Tarn Camp - Kibo Camp

Ascend 10 km over 5–6 hours through alpine desert toward Kibo Camp (4,700 m). The exposed trail offers panoramic views of the Western Breach, Kibo, and Mawenzi. Guides maintain pacing, monitor acclimatization, and provide insights on the mountain’s geology and ecosystem. Arrival at Kibo Camp allows rest, meals, and preparation for the midnight summit push, including gear organization and mental readiness for the final ascent.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Trekking - Uhuru Peak and Descent - Horombo Camp

Summit day begins with a midnight ascent from Kibo Camp through volcanic scree under starry skies. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) and continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) at sunrise, with unparalleled views of glaciers and the African horizon. After celebration and photos, descend 15 km over 12–14 hours to Horombo Camp (3,720 m), passing alpine desert and moorland. Guides provide full support, safety, and encouragement throughout this life-changing day.

Main Destination:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation:

Budget camping

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Descent from Horombo Camp - Marangu Gate - Arusha

Descend 20 km over 6–7 hours through high moorland and montane forest, retracing the Rongai route to Marangu Gate. Celebrate with a summit certificate, then transfer to an Arusha hotel for rest, showers, and a farewell dinner. The descent allows reflection on the mountain’s beauty, changing ecosystems, and the achievement of standing atop Africa’s highest peak. A smooth and rewarding conclusion to the Rongai adventure.

Main Destination:

Arusha (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.