7 Days Hiking Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

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Tour Price

$ 1,860

Tour Overview

The Rongai Route is unique as it approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. While it is gaining in popularity, it remains less crowded compared to other routes like Marangu, making it an excellent option for those seeking a more remote experience or a quieter hike. Additionally, the north side of the mountain receives less rainfall, making this route a great choice during the rainy season when other trails may be more challenging.

Typically completed in six days, the Rongai Route is recommended to be done in seven days for better acclimatization. While the scenery may not be as diverse as some of the western routes, Rongai offers a sense of wilderness as it winds through remote areas before meeting the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. The descent follows the Marangu Route, providing a different perspective on the mountain. This moderately difficult trail is highly recommended, particularly for those with less backpacking experience, offering a balance of adventure and accessibility.

Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Min Age

5+

Max Pax

30

Itinerary Highlights

Tour In Details

Arrival

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly received by our professional team after completing immigration and baggage collection. You will then be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in Arusha. This day is intentionally relaxed to allow your body and mind to recover from the international journey. No scheduled activities are planned, ensuring you can rest comfortably and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 1 | Arusha 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 | Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and descent to Horombo Hut

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 to Marangu Gate and transfer to Arusha

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.

Tour Map

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

Where to Stay

Camping on Mount Kilimanjaro offers an adventurous and immersive experience, combining comfortable, well-equipped tents with breathtaking mountain views. Sleep in cozy sleeping bags at scenic, safe campsites, enjoy hot meals served by supportive staff, and wake to stunning landscapes and starry skies. It’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.

Who will love this?

This experience is perfect for those seeking a meaningful and memorable achievement shared with friends or loved ones. You value expert guidance, well-organized support, and a journey that feels both personal and rewarding. Privacy and exclusivity matter, so your hike is arranged as a private departure, allowing you to enjoy the adventure at your own pace while fully immersing yourself in the experience.

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