Trekking Overview

The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, Rongai has low traffic. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the crowded Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).
The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, and seven days are recommended. Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu route at Kibo camp. This route descends down the Marangu route. Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.

Trekking Itinerary

  • Day 1: Nalemoru Gate (1990m) to Simba Camp (2625m)

    This morning we will drive to the village of Nale Moru for the starting point of the Rongai route. The first stage of the trek is through farmland and pine forests. You may have chance to see the beautiful Colobus monkeys or if you’re lucky enough, elephants or buffalos en route. Our first camp will be the Simba Camp located at the edge of the moorland zone at 2625m.

    Distance covered: 8km / 5mi
    Approx. time taken: 4 – 5 hours
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

  • Day 2: Simba Camp (2625m) to 2nd Cave Camp (3480m)

    The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave Camp located in the moorland zone with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
    Distance covered: 5km / 3.1mi
    Approx. time taken: 3 – 4 hours
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

  • Day 3: 2nd Cave Camp (3480m) to Kikelewa Camp (3630m)

    Leaving the pine forest behind us carry on with a steady ascent walking though moorland. There are superb views of the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim of Kibo, the highest of the three volcanoes which form the mountain. We will leave the main trail and strike out across moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, the second of Kilimanjaro’s volcanoes. We will set up camp today in the sheltered valley near Kikelewa caves at 3630m
    Distance covered: 5km / 3.1mi
    Approx. time taken: 3 – 4 hrs
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

  • Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3630m) to Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4310m)

    This morning we have a short but steep ascent up grassy slopes which is rewarded by a superb view of the Kenyan plains to the north. We leave vegetation behind shortly before reaching our next camp at Mawenzi Tarn Hut directly below the towering cliffs of Mawenzi. This afternoon you have chance to rest or explore the surrounding area to aid acclimatization.
    Distance covered: 8km / 5mi
    Approx. time taken: 4 – 5 hours
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

  • Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4310m) to Kibo Hut (4700m)

    We leave our campsite and cross the lunar desert of the ‘saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo After a couple hours trekking, reach this spectacular place, with the summit of Kilimanjaro in the background and our trail to the high camp stretched out before our eyes. Upon reaching our camp the remainder of the day will be spent resting in preparation of the final ascent after a very early night!
    Distance covered: 8km / 5mi
    Approx. time taken: 5 – 6 hours
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

  • Day 6: Kibo Hut (4700m) to UHURU PEAK (5895m) & down to Horombo Hut (3700m)

    Today is “The Big Day” – the summit stage. You will begin your final ascent around midnight which will be long and strenuous. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave at 5220m, the climb slowly but surely goes upwards. At sunrise, you will reach Gillman’s Point (5681m) – the crater rim of Kilimanjaro – where the sun will slowly start to warm up the land. You will have soon forgotten the cold of the night and after a further hike of 1 – 2 hours, you will reach Uhuru Peak at 5895m. On your return to Kibo Hut, a warm meal awaits you followed by a 1 – 2 hour break before proceeding back down to Horombo Hut.
    Distance covered: 22km / 13.7mi
    Approx. time taken: 12 – 15 hours
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

  • Day 7: Horombo Hut (3700m) to Marangu Gate (1860m)

    The last stage passes through the heath and moor zone to the Mandara Hut (2700m) where a warm lunch is waiting for you. Soon, you will once again pass the tropical rainforest and after a total time of 6 hours trekking, you will be back at the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (1860m). After saying goodbye to your mountain guides, a short transfer follows to take you back to your hotel in Moshi. Once there, you can take a warm and relaxing shower and celebrate your success in reaching the summit of the Kilimanjaro.

    Distance covered: 20.8km / 12.9mi
    Approx. time taken: 8 hours

Package Includes:

Pre & Post Trek accommodation

Professional guides, cooks and porters

Transportation to & from the mountain gate

Park fees, camping fees & rescue fees

VAT fees and Charges

Double layered Sleeping Mats

3 meals daily while on the mountain

Filtered water throughout the trek

Portable toilets and toilets tents

Hot Water For Washing Purpose

Pick up and drop off at the airport.

Fair wages for the mountain crew.

Package does not Include:

International flights

Tip to the driver guide and hoteliers

Insurance fees

Cost of Tanzania Visa.

Bank charges

Personal Expenses

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