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- Duration: 7 days
- Difficulty: Medium
- Scenery: Good
- success rate: high
7 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
The 7-Day Kilimanjaro Rongai Route is a stunning trek for adventurers seeking a less crowded ascent on Africa’s highest peak. This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, offering panoramic views and a unique journey through diverse ecosystems—from lush rainforests to alpine deserts and glaciers. Known for its gentle, gradual climb, the Rongai Route is ideal for trekkers aiming for an easier acclimatization and a higher success rate. This unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience immerses travelers in the natural beauty and wildlife of the region while reaching Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters. With professional guides, well-equipped camps, and breathtaking scenery, this 7-day Rongai Route trek ensures a safe, scenic, and rewarding Kilimanjaro adventure.
7 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Itinerary
Day 0
Arrival (Pre-trek Briefing)
We recommend all trekkers to organize their own flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airpot. Then If you have opted for the optional airport transfers, we will pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Arrive at least a day before your trek to attend a pre-trek briefing at your hotel. We will review your gear and provide any necessary equipment rentals
Day 1
Arrival
- Arrival: Pre-trek Briefing
- Transport: Private transfer
- Accomodation: Hotel
Day 1
Hotel to Simba Camp
Drive to the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru then stop to get permits at Marangu. After signing in and preparing the porters, you will begin the hike on a wide path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.
Day 1
- Elevation: 2000m/6560ft to 2650m/8700ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Montane Forest
- Accommodation: camping
- Meals included: Lunch / Dinner
Day 2
Simba Camp to Second Cave
The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
Day 1
- Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3450m/11,300ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi
- Walking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
- Accommodation:Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3
Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
Head out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios nearby.
Day 1
- Elevation: 3450m/11,300ft to 3600m/11,800ft
- Distance: 9km/5mi
- Walking Time: 2-3 hours
- Habitat: Semi-desert
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4
Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
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.
Day 1
- Elevation: 3600m/11,800ft to 4330m/14,200ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi
- Walking Time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Semi-desert
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent very early.
Day 1
- Elevation: 4330m/14,200ft to 4750m/15,600ft
- Distance: 9km/5mi
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6
Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s Point located on the crater rim (elev 5700m/18,700ft). Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment.
The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly “pole pole” and an optimistic attitude will get you there!
Day 1
- Elevation: 4700m/15,500ft to 5895m/19,340ft Down to 3700m/12,200ft
- Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
- Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 15km/9mi down
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7
Horombo Hut to Hotel
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).
Our vehicle will be waiting for you at Marangu gate to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha
Day 1
- Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
- Distance: 20km/12.5mi
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Forest
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Inclusions and Exclusion
The price includes:-
- All transfers to the mountain and back to your hotel
- Quality mountain tent and Sleeping Mattress
- All meals while on the Mountain
- Conservation fees (part of park fees)
- Professional, experienced, mountain guides
- VAT (18% charged by the Government)
- Clean, purified drinking water
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
- Meals
- Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
- Guides, Porters, Cook salaries and park fees
- Rescue fees (part of park fees)
- Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
The price Excludes:-
- Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
- Liquors, beers and bottled beverages
- Tanzania Visa
- Personal trekking equipment such as sleepings bags, hiking boots, clothes, etc (available for renting)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Transfers (available as an optional addon)
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic flights
- Hotel (available as an optional addon)
Price per person Sharing
Solo
2 pax
3 pax
4 pax
5 pax
6 pax
7+ pax
USD 2297
USD 2116
USD 2094
USD 2067
USD 2053
USD 2032
USD 2024
SOLO
2 PAX
3 PAX
4 PAX
5 PAX
6 PAX
7 PAX +
USD 2297
USD 2116
USD 2094
USD 2067
USD 2053
USD 2032
USD 2024
Facts to know before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, a 19,340-foot (5,895-meter) mountain, has three peaks and popular trekking routes. Climbers traverse diverse climate zones over 6–9 days, depending on the route. The first successful ascent was in 1889 by Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller, also requiring an average fitness level.
Trekking Distance
Long Route 98 KM | Short Route 62 KM
Kilimanjaro Three Peaks
Kibo | Mawenzi | Shira
Climate Zones
Rainforest, Heather, Moorland, Alpine, Arctic
First Climb
1889, Hans Meyer and Ludwig Purtscheller
Required Skills
Average fitness level
Kilimanjaro Routes
Lemosho, Machame, Rongai, Northern Circuit, Marangu, Umbwe
Kilimanjaro Hike Lengths
5-9 days depend on Routes
The Rongai Route is one of the lesser-known paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It begins near the Kenyan border and offers a unique perspective of the mountain. This route is characterized by its scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and less crowded trails, making it an ideal choice for trekkers seeking a more tranquil experience.
The 7-day Rongai Route trek is considered moderately challenging, suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. The ascent is gradual, allowing for proper acclimatization, which is crucial for success. However, trekkers should be prepared for varying weather conditions and steep sections, especially near the summit.
The best time to climb Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route is during the dry seasons, which run from January to March and June to October. During these months, the weather is typically stable with less rain, offering clearer views and more comfortable trekking conditions.
Essential gear for the 7-day trek includes a good-quality sleeping bag, layered clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy trekking boots, a daypack, and personal items like sunscreen and a water bottle. It’s also advisable to have trekking poles for added support on steep sections of the trail.
Yes, meals are provided during the 6-day Rongai Route trek. Expect a variety of nutritious, hearty dishes prepared by your trekking team. Meals typically include local favorites and international options, ensuring trekkers have the energy needed for each day's challenges. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
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