Kilimanjaro Rongai route
Quick Overview
Duration
6 - 7 Days
Difficulty
Very Difficult
Highlight
Diverse landscapes
Success rate
98%
Trek Overview
The Rongai Route offers a unique 6-7 day trek up Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. This less-traveled path provides breathtaking scenery and a more secluded climb. Starting in lush forests, you’ll journey through diverse ecosystems to alpine deserts. The route’s gradual ascent allows for excellent acclimatization, making it ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers. With stunning views of Kenya’s plains and Kilimanjaro’s ice fields, Rongai delivers a perfect blend of challenge and tranquility, culminating in an exhilarating summit attempt at Uhuru Peak.
Why Choose Rongai route
- Gentle Slope: The Rongai route generally has a more gradual and steady incline, making it potentially easier on the body than some steeper routes.
- Wilderness Experience: This route offers a more remote and less crowded climbing experience compared to the southern routes like Machame or Marangu.
- Northern Side Scenery: Climbers are treated to unique views from the northern side of Kilimanjaro, which are different from the more commonly seen southern slopes.
- Good Acclimatization Profile: Although the ascent is gradual, the route can be modified to include extra acclimatization days, which is crucial for summit success.
- Suitable for Less Experienced Climbers: Due to the gentler slopes, this route can be a good option for those with less high-altitude trekking experience.
- Descent Variety: The descent is typically via the Marangu route, providing a change of scenery and a different perspective on the mountain.
Rongai Route Full Itineraries
6 Days Climb
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to Nale Moru Gate (1,996m). After registration, dive into a lush rainforest teeming with vibrant wildlife! Spot colorful birds and unique plants as you trek. Towering fig trees and cascading waterfalls line your path to Second Cave Camp (2,626m) for your first night on the mountain.
Today, tackle a steeper ascent through changing landscapes! Leave the dense forest behind and enter semi-desert terrain. Breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and clouds below will inspire you. This challenging hike aids your acclimatization. Reach Kikelewa Camp (3,840m) for a well-deserved rest under the stars!
Go on a moderate climb through volcanic terrain. Watch the landscape transform into a surreal moonscape with minimal vegetation. Glimpse the dramatic Barranco Wall on the opposite side of the mountain. Settle in at Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,337m), nestled beside a beautiful glacial lake for the night.
Today’s dedicated to acclimatization – crucial for summit success! Take a scenic hike to higher elevations, allowing your body to adjust to thinning air. Enjoy panoramic vistas before returning to Mawenzi Tarn. Later, move to Kibo Hut (4,700m) on the crater rim – your base for tomorrow’s summit push!
Summit day arrives! Start your ascent around midnight, headlamps illuminating the path. Navigate challenging terrain in darkness. The climb is demanding, but reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s highest point, is unparalleled! Witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds before descending to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for a well-earned rest.
Hike back through the rainforest, enjoying the cool air. Reach Mweka Gate (1,630m) and celebrate with your team – you conquered Kilimanjaro! Get your well-deserved summit certificate and enjoy your success.
7 Days Climb
Embark on your adventure with a scenic drive from Moshi to Nale Moru Gate (1,996m). After registration, the real adventure begins! Trek through a lush rainforest teeming with colorful birds and plants. Towering fig trees and cascading waterfalls line your path as you ascend to Simba Camp (2,626m) for a night’s rest.
Today, traverse through changing landscapes! Bid farewell to the rainforest and enter a captivating zone with shorter trees and unique plants acclimatized to the altitude. The vistas expand into a vast, grassy plain, enhancing your journey. Ascend further to reach Second Cave Camp (3,679m) for a distinctive night’s rest – sleeping in caves alongside giant heather plants
Embark on a steeper trek today through a dry, rocky terrain. Fear not, for the breathtaking views – mountains enveloping you with clouds drifting far below – accompany you. This challenging hike aids your acclimatization to the thinner air at higher altitudes. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp (3,840m) for reprieve and a restful night’s sleep!
Today’s ascent is gentler, yet the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation. It resembles the lunar surface, adorned with sparse vegetation and scattered rocks. Behold the imposing Barranco Wall on the opposite side of the mountain. Retire for the night at Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,337m).
Ascend higher today to aid your body in acclimatizing to the reduced oxygen at the summit. Revel in breathtaking panoramas before returning to Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,337m) for a leisurely afternoon. Later, transition to Kibo Hut (4,700m) – situated beside the crater rim! This serves as your base camp for the impending climb tomorrow night.
Summit night! Commence your hike in the wee hours, around midnight, guided by headlamps illuminating the rocky paths. Despite the arduous ascent in darkness, reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m), Africa’s pinnacle, justifies every effort! Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise above the clouds before descending to Horombo Hut (3,720m) to recuperate for the night.
Experience the temperature rise and the scenery transition as you descend into the rainforest. Arrive at Marangu Gate (1,996m) and celebrate with your team – you’ve conquered Kilimanjaro
Prices for Rongai route
| Number of People | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax | 5 pax | 6 pax | 7 pax | 8+ pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Days | $1672 | $1652 | $1632 | $1612 | $1592 | $1572 | $1552 | $1532 |
| 7 Days | $1950 | $1910 | $1870 | $1840 | $1810 | $1740 | $1700 | $1660 |
- Kilimanjaro cost Includes
- Moshi/Arusha Stays: 2 comfy nights in a hotel before & after your climb.
- Transport Covered: Rides to & from the mountain starting point.
- Park Fees Included: Permits, camping/hut fees & park taxes included.
- Expert Team: Guides, assistants, cooks & porters for support.
- Emergency Oxygen: Available for safety (not for regular use).
- Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping pads, shared dining area with lights.
- Mountain Meals: Delicious & nutritious food to fuel your adventure.
- Kilimanjaro cost excludes
- Flights & Visas: These are separate, make a plan to arrange them yourself.
- Meals at Hotel: Accommodation is on B&B plan, lunch and dinner are on you.
- Personal Gear: Pack what you need for the climb. Contact us for a detailed packing list.
- Gratitude is Golden: Tips for the crew are welcome!