7 days Rongai route

After breakfast, our hike continues through the moorland zone where you will notice the vegetation changes to shrubs and grasses. You will stop for lunch at the second cave where we meet the junction to the third cave and the Kikelelwa Camp. We will then turn east towards Kikelelwa Camp and here we will stay overnight.

This is a short day but with a steep climb/hike. Today, you will have a spectacular view of Lake Chala and the Kenyan border. When we arrive at Mawenzi Tarn, you will be able to see the Dendrosenecio plant (an endemic species of Mt Kilimanjaro) and experience the impressive shadow of the magnificent Mawenzi Peak. You will arrive in time for lunch and then have the whole afternoon to explore the surrounding area and acclimatize.

This is an important day for acclimatization. You can enjoy a short hiking excursion to explore the surrounding area and see the spectacular views over the Kibo Ridge.

Day five is a long but gradual hike through the saddle area which is formed between the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The air is dry and the route is barren, but once you arrive at the Kibo Hut, the area provides spectacular views over the plains. You will then be served a hot dinner, prepare your gear for the following day’s summit push, and get some much-needed rest.

Day 6 begins at midnight. You’ll be woken up with a hot cup of tea and a biscuit before you begin your ascent in the dark. Once we reach Hans Meyer Cave, you’ll be able to have a break and refuel with an energy bar. We’ll then continue zigzagging our way as the terrain steepens coming onto Gilman’s Point. Standing on this crater rim, you’ll take a short break, take on some sugar/electrolytes and rest a little before you cross the crater to Stella Point. Our porters will have arrived ahead and heated up some ginger tea for us to drink and warm our insides before the final push.

We’ll then gradually make our way to Uhuru Peak, where you will be able to soak up the incredible views, stay for a picture, and enjoy your great achievement while standing on Africa’s highest point! We will then descend straight down the mountain towards the Kibo Hut where we will stop for a rest, lunch, and a celebration before heading back down towards Horombo Hut.