Rongai Route Overview
If you're after big views, quiet trails, and a true off-the-grid adventure, Rongai is your route. Kicking off from Kilimanjaro’s wild northern side, near the Kenyan border, this is the only trail that starts on this remote, untouched flank. That means fewer crowds, wide-open scenery, and a trek that feels like your own private expedition. If you're ready to swap the hustle of busier routes for raw, unspoiled beauty, Rongai is calling.
Rongai Route Map
Rongai Considerations
Less Crowds = More Peace
🚶 Only 10% of climbers take this trail
🌍 A quiet, remote adventure far from the busy southern routes
If you want less foot traffic and more personal space, Rongai is the most peaceful route on Kilimanjaro. Unlike the popular Machame or Lemosho routes, Rongai’s trails remain quiet, giving you a true wilderness experience.
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers who prefer solitude and a more private adventure.
🔹 What to Expect: A relaxed, uncrowded climb with fewer trekkers on the trail.
Scenery & Wildlife
🏔 Panoramic views of Mawenzi & Kibo peaks
🌾 Dry open plains, alpine desert & rainforest
🦓 Chance to see elephants, antelope & buffalo
Rongai starts on Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes, offering breathtaking views from day one. The diverse terrain includes high-altitude deserts, lush rainforests, and unique plant life like the Giant Groundsels (Dendrosenecio kilimanjari). Unlike other routes, wildlife sightings are more common, making Rongai one of the best routes for spotting large animals.
🔹 Perfect for: Nature lovers and photographers.
🔹 What to Expect: A mix of dramatic landscapes and rare wildlife.
More Reliable Weather
🌤️ Located on the drier northern side of Kilimanjaro
🌧️ Less rain, fewer muddy trails, clearer skies
Because it sits in Kilimanjaro’s rain shadow, Rongai offers better weather conditions than southern routes, especially in rainy seasons. If you’re climbing during March–May or November, when other routes get soaked, Rongai provides a drier, more comfortable trek.
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers looking for a reliable choice in any season.
🔹 What to Expect: Fewer wet and muddy trails compared to other routes.
Gradual Climb, But Acclimatization is Key
🥾 Steady, non-technical ascent = Easier on the legs
📈 Slower altitude gain means less fatigue, but acclimatization is crucial
While Rongai has a gentler incline, it lacks the “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization strategy of other routes. To improve success rates, a 7-day itinerary is highly recommended:
✅ 85% summit success rate for Uhuru Peak
✅ 95% success rate for reaching the crater rim
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers who want a manageable climb with proper acclimatization time.
🔹 What to Expect: An easier ascent, but you’ll need extra time to adjust to the altitude.
Unique Route Experience
📍 The only route that starts in the north and descends via the Marangu Route
⛰️ More variety in landscapes compared to routes that retrace their steps
Unlike other Kilimanjaro routes, Rongai gives you two different perspectives of the mountain. After summiting, you’ll descend via Marangu’s scenic southeastern slopes, avoiding a backtrack and adding new scenery to the journey.
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers who want more variety and a fresh descent route.
🔹 What to Expect: A unique, full-circle Kilimanjaro experience.
Best for Off-Season Climbs
🌤️ Drier trails + fewer crowds = Perfect for shoulder seasons
🥾 Moderate difficulty with rewarding scenery
If you’re climbing Kilimanjaro outside of peak season, Rongai is your best option. The combination of drier conditions, fewer climbers, and diverse landscapes makes this a fantastic choice for those who want a quieter but still rewarding trek.
🔹 Perfect for: Trekkers climbing in the rainy season or seeking a moderate challenge.
🔹 What to Expect: A peaceful, scenic, and steady climb.
DAY 1 - Rongai Gate → Simba Camp
Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, where we’ll handle park registration before setting off on the trail. The trek begins in rainforest, with glimpses of cultivated fields in the distance. As you climb, occasional clearings offer stunning valley views. After a steady, gradual hike, you’ll reach Simba Camp, your first overnight stop.
- Elevation: 1,950 m → 2,830 m / 6,398 ft → 9,285 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 2 - Simba Camp → Kikelelwa Caves
Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, where we’ll handle park registration before setting off on the trail. The trek begins in rainforest, with glimpses of cultivated fields in the distance. As you climb, occasional clearings offer stunning valley views. After a steady, gradual hike, you’ll reach Simba Camp, your first overnight stop.
- Elevation: 1,950 m → 2,830 m / 6,398 ft → 9,285 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 3 - Kikelelwa Cave → Mawenzi Tarn
Today’s climb is short but steep, taking you up grassy slopes with expansive views of the surrounding wilderness. As the vegetation fades, the landscape transforms into a rugged alpine zone. You’ll set up camp at Mawenzi Tarn, an awe-inspiring location beneath the jagged cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration, preparing your body for the altitude ahead.
- Elevation: 3,597 m → 4,330 m / 11,801 ft → 14,206 ft
- Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
- Habitat: Heath
DAY 4 - Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Huts
After breakfast, you’ll traverse the Saddle, a vast, otherworldly expanse of barren high-altitude desert connecting Mawenzi and Kibo. This stark and silent landscape is unlike anything else on Kilimanjaro. By midday, you’ll reach Kibo Hut, your basecamp for the final ascent. The rest of the day is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing for the midnight summit push.
- Elevation: 4,330 m → 4,700 m / 14,206 ft → 15,420 ft
- Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 5 - Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut
Summit night begins around midnight, as you layer up and set out under the stars. The climb is steep and demanding, with switchbacks cutting across loose volcanic scree. The first major milestone is Gilman’s Point, where you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking sunrise over Africa. From there, it’s a final, exhilarating push to Uhuru Peak—the highest point on the continent!
After celebrating at the summit, you’ll begin the long descent back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut, where a warm meal and well-earned sleep await.
- Elevation: 4,730 m → 5,895 m / 15,518 ft → 19,341 ft
- Distance: 22 km / 13.7 mi
- Hiking Time: 8–10 hours ascent + 4–6 hours descent
- Habitat: Arctic
DAY 6 - Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate
The final stretch! As you descend through moorland and rainforest, the landscape transforms once again. Spirits are high as you celebrate your achievement at Marangu Gate. We’ll have a team meal and you’ll receive your official summit certificate before heading back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
- Elevation: 3,720 m → 1,843 m / 12,205 ft → 6,047 ft
- Distance: 18 km / 11.2 mi
- Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 1 - Rongai Gate → Simba Camp
Your adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, where we’ll handle park registration before setting off on the trail. The trek begins in rainforest, with glimpses of cultivated fields in the distance. As you climb, occasional clearings offer stunning valley views. After a steady, gradual hike, you’ll reach Simba Camp, your first overnight stop.
- Elevation: 1,950 m → 2,830 m / 6,398 ft → 9,285 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
DAY 2 - Simba Camp → Second Cave
The second day begins with a steady ascent into the moorland zone. As you approach Second Cave Camp, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Kibo Peak and the Eastern Ice Fields along Kilimanjaro’s crater rim.
- Elevation: 2,830 m to 3,450 m / 9,285 ft to 11,319 ft
- Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
DAY 3 - Second Cave → Kikelewa Cave
Today’s trek takes you through the alpine desert, where the rugged and dramatic landscape sets the stage for a unique and memorable journey. After approximately four hours, you’ll arrive at Kikelelwa Cave to rest for the night.
- Elevation: 3,450 m to 3,600 m / 11,319 ft to 11,811 ft
- Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
DAY 4 - Kikelewa Cave → Mawenzi Tarn Camp
After breakfast, you’ll continue trekking toward Mawenzi Tarn Camp. This four-hour journey transitions into more alpine desert terrain as you gain elevation. At the camp, you’ll notice an increase in fellow trekkers as your path merges with the Marangu Route.
- Elevation: 3,600 m to 4,315 m / 11,811 ft to 14,157 ft
- Distance: 4 km / 2 mi
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland and Alpine Desert
DAY 5 - Mawenzi Tarn Camp → Kibo Hut
This day involves a trek across the Saddle, a vast and barren alpine desert that connects the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. The gradual ascent takes about five to six hours and leads you to Kibo Hut, where you’ll rest and prepare for your summit push.
- Elevation: 4,315 m to 4,703 m / 14,157 ft to 15,427 ft
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
DAY 6 - Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut
At midnight, you’ll set out for the summit under the moonlit sky. The initial climb follows a rocky path, eventually leading to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. After celebrating your incredible achievement, you’ll begin the descent, stopping at Horombo Hut for the night.
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak:
- Elevation: 4,703 m to 5,895 m / 15,427 ft to 19,341 ft
- Distance: 6 km / 4 mi
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Habitat: Arctic
Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut:
- Elevation: 5,895 m to 3,720 m / 19,341 ft to 12,204 ft
- Distance: 12 km / 7 mi
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
DAY 7 - Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate
After a peaceful night’s rest, your final day involves descending through the moorland and rainforest zones back to Marangu Gate. Here, we’ll honor your achievements with a celebration meal; followed by receiving your summit certificates, and return to the hotel to relax and reflect on your journey.
- Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,843 m / 12,204 ft to 6,046 ft
- Distance: 18 km / 11 mi
- Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
Rongai
6 Days-
Single Guest - $3,550
-
2 Guests - $2,700
-
3 Guests - $2,600
-
4 Guests - $2,500
-
5 Guests - $2,500
-
6 Guests - $2,400
-
7 Guests - $2,350
-
8 Guests - $2,300
Rongai
7 Days-
Single Guest - $3,800
-
2 Guests - $2,900
-
3 Guests - $2,800
-
4 Guests - $2,700
-
5 Guests - $2,700
-
6 Guests - $2,600
-
7 Guests - $2,550
-
8 Guests - $2,500
Included with Trek
Airport pickup & drop-off + transport to/from the mountain
Smooth, Hassle-Free Airport & Hotel Transfers
Welcome to Tanzania! The moment you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, one of our professional drivers will be there to greet you with a warm smile and a spacious, comfortable ride straight to your hotel.
Our vehicles are built for comfort, with plenty of room for you and your gear. Plus, we’ll have complimentary bottled water waiting for you.
Safety first! Every vehicle undergoes routine maintenance and inspections, ensuring a smooth ride every time.
Experienced, English-Speaking Drivers
Our drivers are not just skilled—they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English, making your ride enjoyable and stress-free.
Hotel-to-Kilimanjaro Transfers
When it’s time to hit the mountain, we’ll transport you in reliable Toyota Hiace or Coaster vehicles—built tough for Tanzania’s terrain.
Return Transfers
After your adventure, we’ll take you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport—because your journey with us isn’t just about the climb, but the entire experience.
2 nights (before & after trek) in a comfortable Arusha hotel
Your comfort matters—before and after the climb.
Pre & Post-Trek Hotel Stays
Two Nights Included: One night before your climb and one night after—giving you time to rest, recover, and celebrate.
Default Rooming: Double-occupancy rooms are standard, but if you’d prefer your own space, single rooms are available upon request (subject to availability).
Preferred Accommodations
We primarily partner with The Outpost Lodge and Mvuli Hotel, but if unavailable, we’ll book a comparable alternative that meets the same standards of comfort and service.
Prefer a specific hotel? Just let us know—we’ll make it happen.
Hotel Features
- Daily Breakfast
Friendly, professional staff
On-site restaurant & swimming pool
Comfortable rooms with mosquito nets
Complimentary Wi-Fi & laundry services
Extra Nights
If your trek ends earlier than expected, we’ll secure a hotel room for you in Arusha (additional cost applies).
Gear Delivery & Orientation
The day before your climb, our team will meet you at the hotel for an in-depth orientation.
If you’ve rented gear, we’ll deliver it to your hotel, so you can check everything before setting off.
High-quality tents, sleeping mats, private toilet, etc.
We’ve got your back—with top-tier gear designed for Kilimanjaro’s rugged conditions.
High-Quality, All-Weather Tents
Weatherproof & Reliable: Our 4-season Mountain Hardwear and North Face tents are built for rain, wind, and cold temperatures—so you stay dry and warm.
Spacious Setup: Designed for three people, but we only place two per tent for added comfort.
Private Tent Option: Prefer a solo tent? Let us know in advance! (Extra charge applies.)
Private Portable Toilet
No public toilets, no worries! We provide a dedicated private toilet at all campsites and lunch stops—exclusively for your group. Crew members do not use it.
Comfortable Sleeping Setup
Thick 3-inch Sleeping Mats—because a good night’s sleep is key to summit success.
Dining Experience
Spacious Dining Tents—windproof, rainproof, and perfect for meals & socializing.
Sturdy Tables & Real Tableware—stainless steel cutlery, ceramic plates. No flimsy disposables here!
Comfortable Camping Chairs—because nobody wants to sit on a rock after a long hike.
Hygiene & Comfort
Handwashing Station with Hot Water—staying fresh on the mountain is a luxury we provide.
Prime Campsite Locations—our team arrives early to secure the best spots, ensuring peace, privacy, and epic views.
Freshly prepared, chef-cooked meals on the trek
High-altitude trekking needs fuel, not just food. Our professionally trained chefs prepare every meal fresh, balancing nutrition, energy, and taste.
Fresh, Locally Sourced Ingredients
We source our meat, vegetables, and fruits from local Tanzanian farmers, ensuring freshness, quality, and community support.
Ingredients are certified by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Tailored for Your Dietary Needs
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, we’ve got you covered—at no extra cost.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, sausages, spinach, sweet potatoes, toast, coffee & tea.
Lunch: Fresh soups, pasta, stews, salads, mashed potatoes, grilled chicken.
Dinner: Hearty soups, vegetable salads, beef, chicken, or fish with Tanzanian spices, fresh fruit for dessert.
Cooking in the Wild
Meals are prepared on a camping gas oven, with our chefs working their magic in all weather conditions.
Our team serves hot meals daily—no freeze-dried food here.
Nutritional and Delicious Meals
Menu Designed by Experts: Our meal plans are created in consultation with a professional dietitian to ensure a perfect balance of taste and energy for your trek.
Flexible Dietary Options: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, or have other dietary needs, we’ll accommodate your preferences at no extra cost. Simply inform your manager in advance, and our mountain chef will customize your meals.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Options include porridge, eggs, sausages, vegetables, spinach cooked local-style (mchicha), sweet potatoes, and coffee or tea.
Lunch: Soups (butternut, tomato, vegetable, beef); spaghetti; stews; avocado salads; mashed potatoes; fried chicken with flavorful sauces; and other local and international dishes.
Dinner: Enjoy a soup; vegetable salads (kachumbari or Mexican-style); main dishes with chicken, beef, or fish; fried vegetables; and stews like bamia stew. Each meal is served with tasty sauces, extra seasonings, and fresh local fruits such as mangoes, oranges, pineapple, and bananas for a vitamin boost.
Locally Sourced and Fresh Ingredients
Organic Produce: We source fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats from small, neighboring farms to ensure quality and support the local economy.
Certified Suppliers: All ingredients meet standards set by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Meals During the Trek
Fully Catered Experience: Our chefs prepare all meals during the trek, except for lunch on the first day, which is served upon entering the park before reaching the first camp.
Camp Kitchen Expertise: Meals are prepared in a camp kitchen using a camping gas oven and electric torch for lighting, even in challenging weather conditions.
Certified guides, porters, waiters, and mountain chefs
The best guides make the best climbs.
Highly Experienced Guides
Decades of Trekking Experience—they know Kili inside and out.
Certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR)—trained in emergency medical care for high-altitude environments.
Storytellers & Cultural Experts—they’ll entertain you with Kilimanjaro’s history, myths, and local traditions.
Hardworking Support Crew
Porters, Chefs & Camp Managers—the real heroes behind your success.
Fair Wages & Proper Gear—we believe in ethical treatment, ensuring our team is well-paid and well-equipped.
Daily health checks, bottled oxygen, emergency evacuation plan, etc.
Your well-being is our top priority.
Daily Health Monitoring
Twice-Daily Medical Check-Ups—every hiker gets a full health assessment in the morning and evening.
Vital Sign Monitoring—oxygen levels, blood pressure, and altitude adaptation checks.
Mandatory for All Climbers—whether you feel fine or not, these check-ups keep you safe and acclimatized.
Oxygen & Emergency Response
Bottled Oxygen—for acclimatization support and AMS treatment.
AMS Scoring System—we use Lake Louise Acute Mountain Sickness assessments to monitor symptoms.
Emergency Evacuation Plan—if needed, our team is trained for rapid response and safe descent.
Medical Kits & Equipment
Large “Camp” Medical Kits—stocked with 49+ essential medications and first-aid supplies.
Portable Tactical Kits—carried by guides for quick injury treatment.
All Kilimanjaro National Park & associated fees
No hidden fees. No surprises. We include everything upfront.
Comprehensive Park Fees
Camping & Conservation Fees
Rescue Fees
Crew Wages & Fees
Forest Fees (on applicable routes)
These fees go directly toward preserving Kilimanjaro’s environment and supporting local conservation efforts.
Included with Trek
Excluded From Trek
Airport pickup & drop-off + transport to/from the mountain
Smooth, Hassle-Free Airport & Hotel Transfers
Welcome to Tanzania! The moment you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, one of our professional drivers will be there to greet you with a warm smile and a spacious, comfortable ride straight to your hotel.
Our vehicles are built for comfort, with plenty of room for you and your gear. Plus, we’ll have complimentary bottled water waiting for you.
Safety first! Every vehicle undergoes routine maintenance and inspections, ensuring a smooth ride every time.
Experienced, English-Speaking Drivers
Our drivers are not just skilled—they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and fluent in English, making your ride enjoyable and stress-free.
Hotel-to-Kilimanjaro Transfers
When it’s time to hit the mountain, we’ll transport you in reliable Toyota Hiace or Coaster vehicles—built tough for Tanzania’s terrain.
Return Transfers
After your adventure, we’ll take you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport—because your journey with us isn’t just about the climb, but the entire experience.
2 nights (before & after trek) in a comfortable Arusha hotel
Your comfort matters—before and after the climb.
Pre & Post-Trek Hotel Stays
Two Nights Included: One night before your climb and one night after—giving you time to rest, recover, and celebrate.
Default Rooming: Double-occupancy rooms are standard, but if you’d prefer your own space, single rooms are available upon request (subject to availability).
Preferred Accommodations
We primarily partner with The Outpost Lodge and Mvuli Hotel, but if unavailable, we’ll book a comparable alternative that meets the same standards of comfort and service.
Prefer a specific hotel? Just let us know—we’ll make it happen.
Hotel Features
- Daily Breakfast
Friendly, professional staff
On-site restaurant & swimming pool
Comfortable rooms with mosquito nets
Complimentary Wi-Fi & laundry services
Extra Nights
If your trek ends earlier than expected, we’ll secure a hotel room for you in Arusha (additional cost applies).
Gear Delivery & Orientation
The day before your climb, our team will meet you at the hotel for an in-depth orientation.
If you’ve rented gear, we’ll deliver it to your hotel, so you can check everything before setting off.
High-quality tents, sleeping mats, private toilet, etc.
We’ve got your back—with top-tier gear designed for Kilimanjaro’s rugged conditions.
High-Quality, All-Weather Tents
Weatherproof & Reliable: Our 4-season Mountain Hardwear and North Face tents are built for rain, wind, and cold temperatures—so you stay dry and warm.
Spacious Setup: Designed for three people, but we only place two per tent for added comfort.
Private Tent Option: Prefer a solo tent? Let us know in advance! (Extra charge applies.)
Private Portable Toilet
No public toilets, no worries! We provide a dedicated private toilet at all campsites and lunch stops—exclusively for your group. Crew members do not use it.
Comfortable Sleeping Setup
Thick 3-inch Sleeping Mats—because a good night’s sleep is key to summit success.
Dining Experience
Spacious Dining Tents—windproof, rainproof, and perfect for meals & socializing.
Sturdy Tables & Real Tableware—stainless steel cutlery, ceramic plates. No flimsy disposables here!
Comfortable Camping Chairs—because nobody wants to sit on a rock after a long hike.
Hygiene & Comfort
Handwashing Station with Hot Water—staying fresh on the mountain is a luxury we provide.
Prime Campsite Locations—our team arrives early to secure the best spots, ensuring peace, privacy, and epic views.
Freshly prepared, chef-cooked meals on the trek
High-altitude trekking needs fuel, not just food. Our professionally trained chefs prepare every meal fresh, balancing nutrition, energy, and taste.
Fresh, Locally Sourced Ingredients
We source our meat, vegetables, and fruits from local Tanzanian farmers, ensuring freshness, quality, and community support.
Ingredients are certified by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Tailored for Your Dietary Needs
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, we’ve got you covered—at no extra cost.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, sausages, spinach, sweet potatoes, toast, coffee & tea.
Lunch: Fresh soups, pasta, stews, salads, mashed potatoes, grilled chicken.
Dinner: Hearty soups, vegetable salads, beef, chicken, or fish with Tanzanian spices, fresh fruit for dessert.
Cooking in the Wild
Meals are prepared on a camping gas oven, with our chefs working their magic in all weather conditions.
Our team serves hot meals daily—no freeze-dried food here.
Nutritional and Delicious Meals
Menu Designed by Experts: Our meal plans are created in consultation with a professional dietitian to ensure a perfect balance of taste and energy for your trek.
Flexible Dietary Options: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, or have other dietary needs, we’ll accommodate your preferences at no extra cost. Simply inform your manager in advance, and our mountain chef will customize your meals.
Sample Menu
Breakfast: Options include porridge, eggs, sausages, vegetables, spinach cooked local-style (mchicha), sweet potatoes, and coffee or tea.
Lunch: Soups (butternut, tomato, vegetable, beef); spaghetti; stews; avocado salads; mashed potatoes; fried chicken with flavorful sauces; and other local and international dishes.
Dinner: Enjoy a soup; vegetable salads (kachumbari or Mexican-style); main dishes with chicken, beef, or fish; fried vegetables; and stews like bamia stew. Each meal is served with tasty sauces, extra seasonings, and fresh local fruits such as mangoes, oranges, pineapple, and bananas for a vitamin boost.
Locally Sourced and Fresh Ingredients
Organic Produce: We source fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats from small, neighboring farms to ensure quality and support the local economy.
Certified Suppliers: All ingredients meet standards set by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
Meals During the Trek
Fully Catered Experience: Our chefs prepare all meals during the trek, except for lunch on the first day, which is served upon entering the park before reaching the first camp.
Camp Kitchen Expertise: Meals are prepared in a camp kitchen using a camping gas oven and electric torch for lighting, even in challenging weather conditions.
Certified guides, porters, waiters, and mountain chefs
The best guides make the best climbs.
Highly Experienced Guides
Decades of Trekking Experience—they know Kili inside and out.
Certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR)—trained in emergency medical care for high-altitude environments.
Storytellers & Cultural Experts—they’ll entertain you with Kilimanjaro’s history, myths, and local traditions.
Hardworking Support Crew
Porters, Chefs & Camp Managers—the real heroes behind your success.
Fair Wages & Proper Gear—we believe in ethical treatment, ensuring our team is well-paid and well-equipped.
Daily health checks, bottled oxygen, emergency evacuation plan, etc.
Your well-being is our top priority.
Daily Health Monitoring
Twice-Daily Medical Check-Ups—every hiker gets a full health assessment in the morning and evening.
Vital Sign Monitoring—oxygen levels, blood pressure, and altitude adaptation checks.
Mandatory for All Climbers—whether you feel fine or not, these check-ups keep you safe and acclimatized.
Oxygen & Emergency Response
Bottled Oxygen—for acclimatization support and AMS treatment.
AMS Scoring System—we use Lake Louise Acute Mountain Sickness assessments to monitor symptoms.
Emergency Evacuation Plan—if needed, our team is trained for rapid response and safe descent.
Medical Kits & Equipment
Large “Camp” Medical Kits—stocked with 49+ essential medications and first-aid supplies.
Portable Tactical Kits—carried by guides for quick injury treatment.
All Kilimanjaro National Park & associated fees
No hidden fees. No surprises. We include everything upfront.
Comprehensive Park Fees
Camping & Conservation Fees
Rescue Fees
Crew Wages & Fees
Forest Fees (on applicable routes)
These fees go directly toward preserving Kilimanjaro’s environment and supporting local conservation efforts.
International airfare to/from Tanzania
Our packages do not include international flights—you’ll need to book and pay for these separately.
Need recommendations? We’re happy to help! Just reach out for guidance on airlines flying into Tanzania.
Recommended Tipping
Tipping is a long-standing tradition in trekking—a way to show appreciation for the hard work your guides, porters, and chefs put into making your climb unforgettable.
- Tipping is optional but appreciated if your crew delivers an experience that goes above and beyond.
- Recommended Amount: $250–$350 per trekker (USD).
Your crew will celebrate every step you take up the mountain, and a generous tip is a great way to celebrate them in return!
Visa Fee
Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. Here’s what to expect:
- Standard Visa Fee: $50 USD (single-entry, valid for 90 days).
- U.S. Nationals: $100 USD (multi-entry visa required).
- Need more details? Check out our Tanzania Visa & Entry Guide or contact us for assistance.
Personal Gear
You’ll need essentials like hiking boots, sleeping bag, backpack, clothing, etc.
- If you’d rather rent gear than pack it all, just send us your list, and we’ll have everything ready when you arrive.
Single Supplement
By default, hotel rooms and tents are shared between two people when booking as a private group of two or more.
- Prefer a private room and/or tent? No problem—a single supplement is available (extra charge applies).
- Exception: Single supplements aren’t available on the Marangu Route, where shared huts house up to 20 hikers per night.
Mandatory Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required for all climbers.
- Must Cover: Trekking up to 6,000m and helicopter evacuation.
- Check with your provider to confirm coverage—policies vary by country.
Better safe than sorry! If you need recommendations, we’re happy to help.
Lunch and Dinner at the Hotel
Your hotel stay includes breakfast, but lunch and dinner aren’t covered.
- Eat at the hotel restaurant or explore some great dining spots in Arusha!
- Want local food recommendations? Just ask—we know all the best spots.
