From Moshi in Tanzania: 7 Days Group Mid-Range Kilimanjaro Trek via Rongai Route

Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 1,950 meters (6,398 feet) to 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) 

Distance: 8 kilometers (5 miles) 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Rainforest 

After breakfast, you will be driven from your hotel in Moshi to the Rongai Gate (about 2-3 hours). Here, you will begin your trek, entering through the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The trek today starts in the rainforest where you will experience lush vegetation, various species of birds, and possibly some monkeys. You will slowly begin your ascent toward Simba Camp. There are Private toilets and oxygen available, At Simba Camp, you’ll be welcomed with a hot meal, and you’ll have some time to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. The camp is peaceful, offering a fantastic view of the mountain.

Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Elevation: 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) to 3,450 meters (11,319 feet) 

Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Health 

After breakfast, you will continue your journey, gradually ascending through the heath zone. This section offers fantastic views of the mountain and its surroundings. You will also pass by the second cave, which is a common landmark along the route. As you climb, the vegetation changes, and you'll encounter different types of plants and wildlife. The higher altitude begins to make the trek a bit more challenging, but your guide will monitor your pace to ensure you stay comfortable. You will reach the Second Cave camp, where you'll have a hearty meal and time to relax also there are Private toilets and oxygen available.

Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 3,450 meters (11,319 feet) to 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) 

Distance: 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Moorland 

Today’s trek will take you through the moorland zone. You’ll start your hike after breakfast, gradually ascending to Kikelewa Camp. The landscape changes to a more barren environment, with rocky paths and occasional shrubbery. You’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views, and the feeling of being closer to the summit becomes more real as you climb higher. Upon arrival at Kikelewa Camp, you’ll have the opportunity to rest and prepare for the upcoming days of ascent also Private toilets and oxygen are available.

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Huts

Elevation: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) to 4,330 meters (14,200 feet) 

Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) 

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours 

Habitat: Alpine Desert 

This is a shorter day in terms of distance, but the altitude begins to make the trek a bit more strenuous. You will cross into the alpine desert zone, where the environment becomes more barren, with little vegetation and an almost otherworldly landscape. The hike provides a great opportunity for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the higher altitude. Mawenzi Tarn Huts is situated at the base of the Mawenzi peak, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscape. You will have a chance to relax and enjoy the mountain scenery.

Mawenzi Tarn Huts to Kibo Huts

Elevation: 4,330 meters (14,200 feet) to 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) 

Distance: 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) 

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours ?

Habitat: Alpine Desert 

Today, you will trek to Kibo Huts, located just below the summit. This section of the trek is quite challenging due to the altitude and the rough, rocky terrain. You’ll feel the thinning air and may experience fatigue, so it’s important to maintain a steady pace and hydrate properly. Once you arrive at Kibo Huts, you’ll rest and prepare for the summit push. The evening will be an early one, as you'll need to rest up for the big day ahead.

Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak (Summit) and Descent to Horombo Huts

Elevation: 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) to 3,700 meters (12,140 feet) 

Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) to summit, 13 kilometers (8 miles) descent 

Hiking Time: 12-15 hours (Summit push and descent) 

Habitat: Arctic Zone 

This is the most challenging day of the trek. You will begin the ascent to the summit (Uhuru Peak) early in the morning, usually around midnight. The climb will take several hours, with the cold temperatures and high altitude making it a difficult task. However, the reward of reaching the summit is extraordinary, with stunning panoramic views and a true sense of achievement. After spending some time at the summit, you will begin your descent to Horombo Huts. The descent is long and tiring, but it’s essential for helping your body adjust to lower altitudes.

Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate and Drive Back to Moshi

On this final day of trekking, you will descend to the Marangu Gate. The trail is steep at times, but the descent through the rainforest provides a refreshing change of scenery. Upon reaching the gate, you will sign out and receive your completion certificate. You will be picked up and driven back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax and celebrate your accomplishment.

Departure from Moshi

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight back home. If time allows, you can explore Moshi a little more before your departure.