Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
At a Glance
  • Duration7 Days
  • Difficulty Level Serious
  • Max Altitude 5900 Meter
  • Group Size 1-10 Pax
  • Starts Moshi
  • Ends Moshi

Deceiving in the rain shadow of Kilimanjaro, the Rongai route is the best way to make the venture on Kilimanjaro during the rainy season, as it sees substantially less rain than the southern routes. Rongai Route is known to be more charming than the Marangu Route, and easier than the Machame Route, and the success rate on the Rongai is very high. Located on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro with a variety of spectacular landscapes together with different plants and animal species as well proffers trekkers plenty of advantages, making it a very fascinating option for those looking for a unique experience on Africa’s tallest peak.

Kilimanjaro Rongai Route starts on the north side of the mountain just south of the Kenyan border and is one of the least traveled routes. The route merges with the Marangu Route for the summit climb. The descent follows the Marangu Route on the mountain’s southeast side, so you will be able to observe Kilimanjaro from many viewpoints. Enjoy the magnificent scenery that this route has to offer and capture thrilling memories that have to be remembered for your whole life! Making your adventure easy by yourself by climbing to the top is gradual and steady. However, unlike Marangu, this route has low crowds and passes through remote wilderness areas. Probably the only route where seeing wildlife in the first days is possible. So make sure to capture it!

Kilimanjaro Rongai Route, an ideal for those who are not confident in their ability to hike over steeper paths, those who want to avoid traffic, and those who want to enjoy a quieter hike. It is also plumbed for when climbing during the rainy season because the north side of the mountain receives fewer hailstorms.

Itinerary

Show Detail ItineraryHide Detail Itinerary

    Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up from Moshi and driven to the Nale Moru gate. At the gate, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your waiting lounge register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then start your ascent into the rainforest. During this section of the hike, you should expect rain, mud, and fog. Also, be on the lookout for wildlife, including Colobus monkeys! About halfway up the trail, you will have a lunch break and you will reach the First Caves Camp in the late afternoon or early evening. The porters and chefs who move very fast up the mountain will reach camp before you and set up your tents, boil drinking water, and prepare snacks for your arrival. After washing up, a hot dinner will be served followed.  Overnight at Camp.

      Enjoy the morning at Simba camp proceed with the hiking very slowly and acclimatize your body until you reach the Second cave (3450M ) for hot lunch. Afternoon relaxes at the second cave with dinner and stays overnight.

        After breakfast and packing, you continue your steady ascent across the Moorland towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. This relatively short hiking day brings you closer to the Easter ice fields, continually drawing your attention to their beauty. Pay attention to your body and keep your guide informed of any signs of altitude sickness. Overnight at Camp.

          On this day, hikers will enjoy a short, yet steep trail to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m). In the moorland, see exotic plants, including giant lobelia and groundsel. At camp, you will get to enjoy splendid views and allow their bodies to acclimate. Hot dinner and washing water will be prepared for hikers as they enjoy the majestic sunset. Overnight at Camp.

            A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization. If you are spending an extra day on the mountain, you will camp for two nights here. You can hike up and around Mawenzi for your acclimatization hike. Overnight at Camp.

              The day of full challenges yet comes today!!!! You will begin your summit attempt. The trail is rocky up to Hans Meyer Cave (5150m). You continue your ascent to Gillman’s point (5681m). Reaching this section is an impressive achievement as the trail is steep, rocky, and at high altitudes. Gillman’s is located on the crater rim. From this point, you will usually experience a snow-covered trail until you reach the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). Reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro is a lifetime accomplishment! You will be able to spend a short time on the summit taking photographs and drinking tea before the descent to Barafu begins. The hike down to Kibo Hut takes about 3 hours. At Kibo Hut, you will rest and enjoy a hot lunch in the sun. After eating, you will continue descending down to Horombo Hut (3720m). You will have dinner, wash, and rest soundly at the hut after a strenuous day. Overnight at Camp.

                After a long and enjoyable sleep, you will be awaked for breakfast and pack up, start to descend through the moorland to Mandara Huts. Here you will have lunch then proceeded with your triumphant recessional down through the lush forest to Marangu park gate. Here you will sign out then a vehicle will take you back to the hotel where it is definitely time for certificate presentation and celebration!

                Cost Details

                Cost Includes
                • Private Transfer from/to Kilimanjaro International Airport
                • Hut or camping fees
                • All park fees
                • Salary for the crew (guide, Porter & Cook)
                • Rescue fee
                • Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner & mineral water)
                • Two night accommodation (one night before climb and one night after Climb) B/B Tent, foam sleeping pads, cooking equipments eating utensils.
                • Oxygen cylinder and Oxy-meter.
                • All government tax (VAT)
                • Helicopter evacuation service
                Cost Excludes
                • Tip for the crew (guide, porters & cook
                • Some equipment is available for rent
                • Lunch and dinner at the hotel
                • Extra personal needs (cigarette & alcohol drinks)
                Similar TripsYou may also like
                Planning a Trip?

                Speak to a specialist to start planning tailor-made holiday.