The Rongai Route is one of the few routes that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, offering a quieter and less crowded experience. It is known for its gradual ascent and unique views, including the chance to see wildlife in the area.
Hiking Time: 4 hours
Distance: Approximately 6.7 km
Habitat: Montane Forest
Begin your journey with a 45-minute drive from Moshi to the Marangu park gate for registration. Then, travel a further 68 km (about 2.5 hours) on rough roads to the Rongai start point (1996m). Meet your guide and porters in Nale Moru village before starting the hike. The trail begins with a gentle climb through maize fields and pine forests, gradually ascending through scenic, rolling countryside. After a pleasant hike, you’ll reach Simba Camp (2626m) for your first night. The camp has basic facilities, including a public toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut.
Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Distance: Approximately 11.8 km
Habitat: Moorlands
From Simba Camp, we begin the ascent towards Kibo, stopping for lunch at First Caves (3482m), approximately 5.8 km from Simba. After lunch, continue the trek for another 2 hours to Kikelewa Camp at 3679m. As you gain altitude, the views become more expansive, offering a sense of the vastness of Kilimanjaro. Water is available from a stream near the cave, though you may need to walk downhill to find a pool. Dinner and overnight at Kikelewa Camp.
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.
Hiking Time: 5 hours
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, head west, ascending the eastern side of Kibo. Cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, which will take 4 to 5 hours. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut (4730m), you’ll have the rest of the day to rest and prepare for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo Hut.
Hiking Time: 7 to 8 hours to summit, 6 to 8 hours to descend
Distance: Approximately 5.4 km ascent, 15 km descent
Habitat: Stone Scree/Ice-Cap Summit
Around 23:20, wake up for tea and biscuits before beginning the challenging ascent. The trail starts with a rocky path leading to Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), a good rest spot. From there, the path zigzags up to Gillman’s Point (5681m), a steep and physically demanding section that requires mental and physical endurance. From Gillman’s Point, snow may be encountered as you continue to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa.
Reaching the summit is a moment of immense accomplishment. Depending on weather conditions, you’ll have a brief time to enjoy the views and take photos before beginning the 3-hour descent back to Kibo Hut. After a short rest at Kibo, gather your gear and descend to Horombo Hut (3705m), where you’ll spend the night. This day is long and taxing, with a total of 14 hours of hiking, but it will be filled with memories and a deep sense of achievement.
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 19.7 km
Habitat: Moorland & Montane Forest
After breakfast, descend for 6 hours, passing Mandara Hut, and continue down to Marangu Gate. It’s important to wait until all your gear has safely reached the gate before tipping your porters. At the Marangu Gate, climbers sign in and receive summit certificates. Those who reached Gillman’s Point receive a green certificate, while those who reached Uhuru Peak are awarded a gold certificate.
From the gate, return to Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved hot shower, dinner, and celebration of your achievement!
Fullmoon Safaris is a locally owned tour operator based in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. They’re registered and managing their own packages, including safaris (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Manyara, Tarangire) and Kilimanjaro treks, with a local foundation receiving 10% of income.
Founded by Emmanuel Teshaa, the company has been operating since around 2011 with a team of 26–50 employees TanzaPages+1.
A Traveller (Thibaut & Florie) described a 6‑day climb via Machame route as “unbelievable and unforgettable,” praising the guides, cook and cheerful porters. They felt safe and well-supported at all times Tripadvisor.
Another reviewer (Faith Makaza Maipisi, Dec 2022) recounted a 7‑day Lemosho route with Fullmoon Safaris: “guides gave us ample time… the cooks were amazing… hot ginger water… celebration cake… brilliant stuff”—highlighting top-tier service and care Tripadvisor+1.
Returning client Sid (July 2023) booked a 3‑day safari and a coffee/waterfalls day trip with Emmanuel, and praised the accommodation, guide knowledge, and overall seamless experience. “You can be 100% confident…” he wrote Tripadvisor.
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