7 Days Hiking Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
Tour Overview
The Rongai Route is the only path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. Although it's gaining popularity, it still sees low traffic, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to the crowded Marangu Route, a more remote hike, or a climb during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).
The Rongai Route requires a minimum of six days, with seven days recommended. While the scenery may not be as varied as on the western routes, Rongai compensates by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. The descent follows the Marangu Route. This moderately difficult route is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.
Good To Know
Airport Pick Up
- Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (KIA)
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), our friendly guide will greet you pleasantly. They’ll help you with your luggage and facilitate a smooth transfer from the crowded airport to your hotel. Enjoy a pleasant ride while our professional guide provides insights into the local area and answers any questions you may have, setting the tone for the start of your Tanzania adventure.
Itinerary Day By Day
Day 1 | Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
After an early breakfast, we'll drive to the Rongai Gate, the starting point of our trek. Here, you will meet your guides and porters, complete registration formalities, and embark on the journey. The trail begins in the lush rainforest, gradually ascending through picturesque scenery. Along the way, you may spot various species of flora and fauna endemic to the region. After approximately 4-5 hours of hiking, we will reach Simba Camp, where you'll spend the night.
- Elevation: Start at 1,950m, end at 2,650m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: Approximately 7 km
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2 | Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
Today's trek takes us further into the alpine desert zone. The trail winds through rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As we gain elevation, you may start to feel the effects of altitude, so it's essential to stay hydrated and pace yourself accordingly. After about 4-6 hours of hiking, we will arrive at Second Cave Camp, our accommodation for the night.
- Elevation: Start at 2,650m, end at 3,450m
- Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 3 | Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Continuing our ascent, we'll traverse across undulating terrain, passing through moorland dotted with unique plant species such as giant lobelias and senecios. The trail gradually gains elevation, providing stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak on clear days. By late afternoon, we'll reach Kikelewa Camp, situated beneath Mawenzi Peak, where you'll spend the night acclimatizing to the altitude.
- Elevation: Start at 3,450m, end at 3,600m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: Approximately 6 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 4 | Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Today's trek involves a steady climb towards Mawenzi Tarn, nestled in a valley beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. As we ascend, you'll notice the landscape transitioning into a barren lunar-like terrain, with dramatic rock formations and sweeping vistas. Take it slow and steady to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. By early afternoon, we'll arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, where you can rest and admire the awe-inspiring surroundings.
- Elevation: Start at 3,600m, end at 4,330m
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 7 km
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5 | Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
With the summit in sight, we'll embark on the final leg of our journey towards Kibo Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. The trail ascends steadily across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, offering breathtaking views of the summit looming ahead. As we reach higher elevations, the air becomes thinner, making each step more challenging. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you'll have some time to rest and prepare for the summit push, which begins in the early hours of the next morning.
- Elevation: Start at 4,330m, end at 4,700m
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6 | Summit Attempt - Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Today is the culmination of your Kilimanjaro adventure as we embark on the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. We'll start the climb in the early hours of the morning, following a steep and challenging trail illuminated by headlamps. As the sun rises, we'll continue our ascent, taking breaks as needed to catch our breath and refuel. Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with unparalleled views and a sense of achievement like no other. After celebrating our success, we'll begin the descent back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut, where we'll spend our final night on the mountain.
- Elevation: Start at 4,700m, ascend to 5,895m, descend to 3,720m
- Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
- Distance: Approximately 20 km (8 km ascent, 12 km descent)
- Difficulty: Very Difficult
- Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert
Day 7 | Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m) and transfer to Moshi
On our last day on the mountain, we'll descend through the rainforest, retracing our steps back to Marangu Gate. Here, you'll receive your summit certificates, commemorating your accomplishment. After bidding farewell to your guides and porters, we'll transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax and reflect on your incredible journey up Kilimanjaro. Tonight, celebrate your achievements with a well-deserved dinner and restful sleep.
- Elevation: Start at 3,720m, end at 1,860m
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: Approximately 20 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 8 | Depart Tanzania
The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi or Arusha town and grab some gift shops before heading to the airport.
Safari, Cycling Adventures and other add-on are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania
Includes
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Mountain crew (cook, summit porter& porters)
- Overnight stays in tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, chairs )
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water, tea & coffee
- Oxygen tank and oximeters
- All national park fees
- Transfer from the hotel to the National Park gate and back
Excludes
- International or Local Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Tour Photos
Itinerary Map
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