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7 Days Rongai Route

Climb Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route

The Lemosho route is considered one of the most beautiful paths up Kilimanjaro, offering panoramic views, diverse vegetation, and a high success rate. This 7-day trek takes you through rainforest, heath, alpine desert, and finally the arctic summit – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Ideal for adventurous trekkers seeking a perfect balance of acclimatization and wilderness.

Highlights

  • Lush montane forest & wildlife (colobus monkeys)
  • Crossing the spectacular Shira Plateau
  • Lava Tower (4,640 m) acclimatisation walk
  • Challenging Barranco Wall & stunning views
  • Karanga Valley – last water point before summit
  • Summit night under stars, sunrise at Uhuru Peak
  • Experienced mountain guides & porters
  • All camping equipment, high-quality tents & meals

Itinerary

Accommodation: Mti Mkubwa (Big Tree) Camp

Description: After registration at Londorossi Gate (2,250 m), a short drive takes you to the Lemosho trailhead. Trek through pristine montane forest on a winding trail, home to colobus monkeys and exotic birds. Arrive at Mti Mkubwa camp (2,820 m) for dinner and overnight.

Distance: ~6 km | Trekking time: 3–4 hours

Meals: Breakfast (if included), Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Shira 1 Camp

Description: The trail gradually leaves the forest belt and enters heath and moorland zone. Enjoy expanding views as you ascend to the edge of the Shira Plateau. Arrive at Shira 1 Camp (3,610 m) for a well-earned rest.

Distance: ~8 km | Trekking time: 5–6 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Moir Hut / Shira 2 Camp

Description: Trek across the plateau to Shira 2 (3,850 m). After lunch, a short acclimatisation walk towards Moir Hut (4,200 m) helps your body adjust. Return to camp for dinner. Spectacular views of Kibo and the Western Breach.

Distance: ~10 km | Trekking time: 5–7 hours (including acclimatisation)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barranco Camp

Description: A challenging but rewarding day. Climb steadily to Lava Tower (4,640 m) for lunch and high-altitude exposure, then descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m) nestled in the valley. The "climb high, sleep low" principle aids acclimatisation.

Distance: ~8 km | Trekking time: 6–7 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karanga Camp

Description: Start with the exciting Barranco Wall climb (non-technical but steep). After the wall, traverse up and down through the Karanga Valley, with stunning views of the southern icefields. Reach Karanga Camp (4,035 m) – the last water point before summit.

Distance: ~5 km | Trekking time: 4–5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Barafu Camp

Description: Follow the ridge to Barafu Camp (4,673 m). This is your last camp before the summit. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for an early start. Your guide will brief you on summit night.

Distance: ~4 km | Trekking time: 4–5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Not included (drop-off in Arusha)

Description: Start around midnight: ascend steeply in the dark to Stella Point (5,756 m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – the roof of Africa! Enjoy sunrise and glaciers. Descend to Barafu for a short rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp for a hot lunch. Finally hike to Mweka Gate (1,650 m) where you receive your summit certificates. Drive back to Arusha (arriving late afternoon/evening).

Ascent/Descent: ~7 km ascent, ~15 km descent | Total time: 12–15 hours

Meals: Breakfast (box), Lunch & Dinner

Inclusions

  • All national park fees & government taxes
  • Professional English-speaking mountain guide & assistant guides
  • Porters & cook – all salaries included
  • High-quality mountain tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, camping furniture
  • All meals on the mountain (freshly prepared)
  • Filtered water throughout the trek
  • Emergency oxygen & pulse oximeter
  • Transfer from Arusha to gate and back

Exclusions

  • International flights & visa fees
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Tips for guides, porters & cook
  • Personal climbing gear (rental available)
  • Soft drinks, snacks, and alcoholic beverages
  • Accommodation in Arusha before/after trek

Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro?

Book your 7-day Lemosho trek or ask our mountain experts