Unique Hiking Kilimanjaro: Rongai 7-day

• Distance: 8 km, 4-6 hours

• Terrain: Forest

• Description:

Starting at the Nalemoru Gate (1,950m), trekkers begin the ascent through the rainforest zone. The trail is gentle and offers a chance to spot wildlife like monkeys and birds. This day is primarily about getting accustomed to the rhythm of trekking at a moderate pace, and the day ends at Simba Camp (2,600m), which is located in a more open area within the forest.

• Distance: 7 km, 4-6 hours

• Terrain: Moorland

• Description:

After breakfast, the hike continues through moorland and heather zones, with spectacular views of Kibo Peak (the main summit) and Mawenzi Peak (another part of Kilimanjaro). The trek to Second Cave Camp (3,450m) offers climbers incredible vistas of the surrounding area. At Second Cave, climbers are treated to views of the east side of the mountain and a tranquil environment

• Distance: 6 km, 4-5 hours

• Terrain: Moorland

• Description:

Today, trekkers move through the moorland and approach the Kikelewa Cave (3,600m), which is located on the northeastern slopes of the mountain. The path takes you through a variety of rocky terrain with expansive views of Mawenzi Peak. The Kikelewa Cave offers an excellent resting point, surrounded by towering rock formations and alpine vegetation

• Distance: 6 km, 3-4 hours

• Terrain: Rocky, alpine desert

• Description:

This part of the trek takes trekkers to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m), which sits beneath the dramatic Mawenzi Peak. The terrain becomes more rugged, and the ascent steeper. Climbers can enjoy a short acclimatization hike around Mawenzi Tarn before resting for the night. This is an important stop for acclimatization, as the altitude begins to affect climbers more at this height

• Distance: 6 km, 4-5 hours

• Terrain: Desert-like saddle

• Description:

After spending time acclimatizing, trekkers head to Kibo Hut (4,700m), which is located at the base of Kibo Peak. The path leads through the Saddle, a high-altitude, barren area between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain is rocky, desolate, and stark, resembling a desert landscape. Kibo Hut is the final rest stop before the summit push and provides climbers with a place to rest and prepare for the night-time ascent

• Distance: 21 km, 12-16 hours

• Terrain: Rocky, glacial summit

• Description:

This is the most demanding day of the trek. Climbers start at midnight from Kibo Hut and ascend toward Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. The route involves a steep ascent through the night, aiming to reach the summit by sunrise. After reaching the peak and taking in the breathtaking views, climbers descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m), where they rest for the night. The descent is long but offers a sense of accomplishment and relief after reaching the summit.

• Distance: 20 km, 5-7 hours

• Terrain: Forest

• Description:

The final day involves descending through tropical rainforest back to the Marangu Gate (1,860m), where climbers will receive their summit certificates. The descent is easier than the previous days, offering trekkers the opportunity to reflect on their incredible journey and enjoy the diverse ecosystems of the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro