The cost for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro varies depending on factors such as the route chosen, the number of days, the time of year, and the services included. Learn more about the cost breakdown for climbing Africa’s highest peak.
On your Mount Kilimanjaro Tour, the only way to climb Kilimanjaro from the north is via Rongai, which offers a secluded journey through pristine wilderness and rainforest away from the crowds of the more well-known southern routes.
The only route that allows for the possibility of seeing wildlife during the first few days of trekking.
With the descent also taking the Marangu route, it provides a different viewpoint. The ascent to Uhuru follows the Marangu route via Kibo Hut.
Moshi/Arusha
Morning Hrs
Pick up from Arusha Town or Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Moshi Town, which is commonly known as the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. Half board accommodation at a base hotel in Moshi
1st Caves Camp (2600 m)—Hiking time is 5 hours—Habitat: Montane Forest.
Register at the Marangu Park Gate for a transfer to the Rongai trailhead (approximately 2 12). Meet your guide and porters before you begin your hike from the Nale Moru village. The small, winding path crosses maize fields before entering a pine forest and then climbs gently through the forest. The trail is not at all steep but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country. The first night’s camp is at First Cave, at about 2600 m. There is a toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut. Water can be found just down the trail below First Cave.
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours – Habitat: Moorlands
The trail continues up towards Kobi, passing Second Cave (3450 m) en route, and reaches Kikelelwa Cave at about 3600 m.The views start to open up, and you begin to feel like you’re on a really big mountain. Although you might have to wander downhill to find some, you will have an overnight stay at Kikelelwa Cave Camp.
Kikelelwa Cave (3600m)–Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m) – Hiking Time: 3-4 Hours – Natural Setting: Moorlands
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.
Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330 m)—Kibo Hut (4700 m)—Hiking Time: 4–5 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo, crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins at midnight. You will have an overnight stay at Kibo Camp.
Summit Attempt, Kibo Hut (4700m)—Uhuru Peak (5895m)—Horombo Hut (3720m), and Hiking Time: 8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak, 6 hours to descend to Horombo. Distance: 6 km ascent; 21 km descent – Environment: Stone scree and ice-capped summit.
You will rise around 2330 hrs., and after some tea and biscuits, you will shuffle off into the night. This is where the going really gets tough. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to Hans Meyers Cave (5150 m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s Point (5681 m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great deal of physical and mental effort. This is probably the most demanding section of the entire route.
Do the Kilimanjaro shuffle and move slowly. From Gillman’s Point, you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru Peak (5895 m), the highest point in Africa. Total exhilaration and satisfaction—you made it. The weather conditions at the summit will determine how much time you have to take photos before the 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut.
Horombo Hut (3720 m)—Marangu Gate (1980 m)—Hiking Time: 6 Hours—Distance: approximately 27 kms.
After breakfast, you will continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut and down to the Marangu gate. You will sign your name and details in a register at Marangu Gate. This is also where successful climbers receive summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Gillman’s Point (5685 m) are issued green certificates, and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895 m) receive gold certificates. You now drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, dinner, and celebrations! Accommodation at a base hotel in Moshi
