RONGAI ROUTE (7 & 8 Days)
ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Rongai Route, a less crowded pathway up Kilimanjaro, offers unique advantages. It starts on the mountain’s northern slope amid coniferous forests and passes through various climatic zones before descending on the Marangu Route to the southwest. This makes it a top choice for climbing Kilimanjaro in 2024 due to several reasons.
RONGAI SCHEDULE (DETAILED ITINERARY)
Day One (1): Moshi or Arusha to Rongai Gate (1950 m) to Simba Camp (2750 m)
- Stretch: 9 km
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Habitat: Montana Forest
The Rongai Route 7-day climb Kilimanjaro starts with a drive from Moshi or Arusha to Rongai Gate. After completing the registration process, the hike begins on a wide track winding through fields of maize and potatoes, heading to the Montana Forest. Trekking will continue gently while enjoying the stunning view of the greenish forest covered with wildlife.
Day Two (2): Simba Camp (2750 m) to Kikelewa Camp (3600 m)
- Stretch: 17 km
- Hiking Time: 7 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Moorland
After an early breakfast, hiking will continue up to the second camp, where hikers will have lunch. In a sheltered valley, the route continues across the moorland to the Mawenzi Peak side at Kikelewa Camp. Dinner and overnight stay will be at Kikelewa Camp.
Day Three (3): Kikelewa Camp (3600 m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330 m)
- Stretch: 7 km
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Semi-Desert
After breakfast, hiking will continue to the steep grassy slopes with breathtaking views. After hiking through vegetation towards Mawenzi, you will reach the Mawenzi Tarn Camp, where you will see an undrained lake with no inlet or outlet. The day will end with lunch and dinner being prepared.
Day Four (4): Acclimatization Day
For the second time in a row, this is a day of relaxation at Mawenzi Tarn, although the thrill and learning are still present. Hikers and the entire crew will camp there for a beautiful view of Mawenzi Peak, enjoying the weather and the time spent. After a restful night, lunch and dinner will be provided.
Day Five (5): Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330 m) to Kibo Hut (4695 m)
- Hiking Time: 5 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Alpine Desert
This day involves hiking from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut, where you will be able to rest and prepare for the final ascent. Enjoy the beautiful views and the alpine desert environment. After arriving at Kibo Hut, lunch and dinner will be provided.
Day Six (6): Kibo Hut (4695 m) to Uhuru Peak (5895 m) to Horombo Hut (3690 m)
- Distance: 4 km up, 14 km down
- Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
- Climatic Habitat: Alpine Desert
Hikers will need to wake up at midnight, have a light breakfast, and then continue hiking to reach Uhuru Peak before dawn to witness the spectacular sunrise. You will pass through Gilman’s Point on the crater rim before reaching Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest peak. After enjoying the summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for lunch. Continue the descent to Horombo Hut over the saddle. The rest of the day will be spent at Horombo Camp, where dinner will be served and a restful night will follow a joyful climb.
Day Seven (7): Horombo Hut (3690 m) to Marangu Gate (1830 m) to Moshi
- Stretch: 18 km
- Descending Time: 5-7 hours
This is the last day of the journey. After breakfast, the descent continues through lush forest to the Marangu Park Gate. At the gate, you will sign out and receive your certificate. A moment of celebration follows as vehicles are ready to drop hikers off at their hotels.
Price Range: $2,280 per person
This package includes:
- Guide
- Park Fees
- Tax
- Crew Wages
- 24-Hour Call Service
- Environment Fees
- Accommodation: During the climb, you will stay in special camps and huts.
- Food: (Depending on Days 7 or 8)
- Guide, Cook and Porters
Book via WhatsApp or Email
This package does not include:
- Flights
- Tipping the Crew
- Visas
- Additional Park Fees
- Non-Climbing Accommodation