Trip Overview
Number of days: 7
Difficulty: moderate
Total distance: 70 km / 43.5 mi
Average trek time per day: 8 hours
From this route you will see amazing views of the Kilimanjaro peak from the eastern side, beginning the 65 kilometer hike at the border between Kenya and Tanzania. The eastern ascent is known for few rains, and the incline is not as steep at the other routes. All ages can climb this route. Rongai is quiet and remote – allowing you to fully engulf yourself in the tropical to alpine wilderness and untouched beauty of Kilimanjaro. The descent takes you down the south face of the mountain, as you get to experience spectacular views from another angle of Kilimanjaro.
In the 7 day climb, there is an extra acclimatization day, which increases the chance of a successful summit at Uhuru Peak.
Quick Facts
- Begins at the Kenyan border takes the eastern route, pasting through pristine wilderness. Desends through Marangu route on the south face of the mountain. This is a less traveled, quieter route, offering a different feel from the western ascent routes.
- Moderate difficulty. Considered the easiest route, with a high success rate.
- Is the driest route, is best to use during the wetter seasons.
- Distance traveled: 80 km / 49.7 mi
- Average hours per day walking: 5.5 hours
- Average altitude change per day: 700 m
Itinerary
| DAY | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Begin ascent, Simba camp You will depart from the hotel in the morning passing through Marangu Gate for check-in and then continue on the drive around the base of Kilimanjaro to the Rongai entrance close to the Kenyan border. From Rongai you will start ascending from Nalemoru Gate to Simba Camp. The hike takes you through the pristine eastern side tropical forests to Simba Camp. |
| Day 2 | Second Cave Camp The climb goes from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp. On the way up you will pass through heath and moorland and see beautiful views of Kilimanjaro. Looking downward are the Kenyan cities, Taveta and Ngare. Especially during the night the view will be spectacular. |
| Day 3 | Third Cave Camp You will continue ascending to the Third Cave Camp. The landscape features short trees, stones, and excellent close-up views of Kilimanjaro. So here you will acclimatize at the Third Cave Camp for day 4. |
| Day 4 | Acclimatization to School Hut Camp – Third Cave Camp For acclimatization, you will make an ascent to School Hut Camp, which is at 3945 m, and then back down to Third Cave Camp. |
| Day 5 | Kibo Hut – midnight ascent to summit The ascent is a longer climb to Kibo Hut and where you will rest at Kibo (4700 m). During the night, you will begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5895 m). |
| Day 6 | Descend to Horombo Hut Afterward you will descend from Uhuru Peak to Kibo Hut and then they will take a short break and have breakfast. Then the descent to Horombo Hut, on the Marangu trail heading southward which offers spectacular views of Tanzania. |
| Day 7 | Mandara Gate check out – to hotel You will continue from Horombo to Mandara Gate for check out, and then transport to hotel for rest and relaxation. |
Pricing estimates
| ACCOMMODATION TYPE | 1 PERSON (PER PERSON) | 2 PERSONS (PP) | 4 PERSONS (PP) | 6 PERSONS (PP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STANDARD CAMPING | $3095 | $2405 | $2215 | $2145a |