7 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via rongai Route
TOUR OVERVIEW
The 7-day Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. Known for its gradual ascent, it’s one of the quieter paths up the mountain and offers breathtaking views of the Kenyan plains and a variety of landscapes. With fewer crowds and an additional acclimatization day, the Rongai Route is ideal for those seeking a more remote experience with a higher chance of summiting successfully.
Tour Plan
You will be picked up from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. In the evening, you’ll attend a pre-climb briefing to prepare for the upcoming adventure.
After breakfast, you’ll drive to the Rongai Gate (1,950m / 6,398ft) to begin your climb. The trek starts through lush farmlands and pine forests, gradually ascending to Simba Camp (2,600m / 8,530ft). This first day of trekking takes about 4-5 hours.
Today, the trail continues with a steady ascent, passing through heathland with stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. After 6-7 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Kikelewa Camp (3,600m / 11,811ft), where you can relax and enjoy the spectacular surroundings.
This day involves a shorter but steeper hike, ascending to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m / 14,206ft), which sits in a sheltered cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. The hike takes about 4-5 hours, and the afternoon is free for acclimatization or rest.
After breakfast, you’ll trek across the lunar-like desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The day ends at Kibo Hut (4,700m / 15,420ft), the base camp for your summit attempt. The hike takes around 5-6 hours, giving you ample time to rest before the midnight ascent.
At midnight, you’ll begin your final ascent to the summit. After a strenuous climb, you’ll reach Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft), the highest point in Africa, by sunrise. After taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll begin your descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m / 12,205ft) for a much-needed rest after a grueling 12-14 hour day.
On your final day, you’ll descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. From there, you’ll be driven back to Moshi for an overnight stay.
- Included
- Park fees and permits.
- Professional guides, porters, and cooks.
- Full meals on the mountain.
- Tent accommodation during the trek.
- Round-trip transportation from Moshi to the mountain.
- ExcludeD
- International airfare.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal climbing gear.
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks.
- Additional excursions and personal expenses.
