Itinerary Overview
The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds. Rongai has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation). Rongai is a moderately difficult route and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.
Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for nearly the entire way. The descent is made via the Marangu route.
The Rongai Trailhead is Kilimanjaro’s only route beginning from the north side and crossing the mountain.
Rongai Route 7 Day begins and end at Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort in Marangu.
Arrival in Moshi/Arusha: You will be picked up from Kilimanjaro International Airport and
transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
– Briefing: Meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing and final gear check.
– Overnight: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha
Elevation: 1,950m to 2,750m
– Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
-Distance: 8km
– Habitat: Montane Forest
– Trek: Start your trek at the Rongai Gate. You’ll pass through cultivated fields and montane forests,
eventually reaching Simba Camp.
– Overnight:Simba Camp.
Elevation: 2,750m to 3,600m
– Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
– Distance: 11km
– Habitat:Moorland
-Trek: Continue through the moorland zone, enjoying views of the Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. You’
ll camp at Kikelewa Cave.
– Overnight: Kikelewa Cave.
– Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
-Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
– Distance: 5km
– Habitat: Alpine Desert
– Trek: This shorter trek day allows you to acclimate. You ’ ll hike towards the jagged peaks of
Mawenzi before reaching Mawenzi Tarn.
– Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn hut
-Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
– Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
– Distance:8km
– Habitat:Alpine Desert
-Trek: Cross the lunar landscape of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, arriving at Kibo Hut,
where you’ll rest before the summit attempt.
– Overnight: Kibo Hut.
– Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720m
– Hiking Time:12-15 hours (6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak, 5-7 hours to Horombo Hut)
– Distance: 22km
– Habitat: Alpine Desert, Arctic at the summit
– Trek: Begin your summit attempt around midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak by sunrise. After
celebrating your achievement, descend to Horombo Hut.
– Overnight:Horombo Hut.
– Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
– Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
– Distance: 20km
– Habitat: Montane Forest
– Trek: Descend through the forest to Marangu Gate. After completing the trek, you’ll receive your
summit certificate. Transfer to Arusha.
– Overnight:Hotel in Arusha.
– Activities: Rest and relaxation, explore Arusha’s cultural sites, or take a day trip to nearby
attractions such as Arusha National Park or a local Maasai village.
– Overnight: Hotel in Arusha or prepare for your departure.
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR
certified Guide - Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
- Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
- Airport Transfers
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water and Full Board Meals
- All National Park & Hut Fees, /camping fees Crew Permits and VAT
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Gate Transfers
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
- Credit Card Transfer Fees
- Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for
Recommendation - Medication
- Tips for porters and mountain crew is recommended per person
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
- Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain
