7 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE KILIMANJARO TREKKING

7 Days Rongai route

Overview

The Rongai Route is the only trail on Kilimanjaro that approaches from the north, near the Kenyan border. While it is becoming more popular among climbers, it remains less crowded than other routes. The Rongai route is known for its gradual ascent, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to the more frequented Marangu route, a more remote experience, or climbing during the rainy season (as the north side receives less precipitation). This moderately difficult route is ideal for beginners or those with less backpacking experience, and the 7-day itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization, making it perfect for those climbing during the low season.

What to Expect

The Rongai Route offers a steady and gradual climb, which is why it's considered one of the more manageable routes on Kilimanjaro. The trek begins in a true wilderness area, taking you towards the rugged Mawenzi Peak. You’ll then cross the barren desert saddle before ascending the eastern crater wall of Kibo. The 7-day itinerary allows more time for acclimatization, improving your chances of a successful summit. Expect a peaceful hike with stunning views and the chance to experience Kilimanjaro’s more remote side.

Tour Plan

Arrival in Tanzania - Transfer from Airport to Moshi
You will be picked up at the Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to Moshi town. You will meet our Kilimanjaro trekking expert who will brief you on your upcoming Kilimanjaro trekking, then rest until the next day morning.

Day 1 - Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.
Day 2 - Simba Camp to Second Cave to Kikelelwa Camp
Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft
Distance: 12 km/8miles
Hiking Time: 8-9 hours
Habitat: Heath
We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelelwa Cave for the night.
Day 3 - Kikelelwa Cave to Mawenzi Turn
Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.
Day 4 - Mawenzi Turn to Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Turn
Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft -14,400 ft
Distance: 2 km/1 mile
Hiking Time: 2 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Turn for camp.
Day 5 - Marwenzi Turn to Kibo Hut
Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.
Day 6 - Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
Distance: 19 km
Hiking Time: 9 -10 hours
Habitat: Arctic
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Day 7 - Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km/12 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest
On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

The Pamoja Kilimanjaro & Safari team will ensure that your dream of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro becomes a reality.

PRICE INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Standard Included & Excludes.

Includes For Standard Trekking

✔ Oxygen Cylinder
✔ Medically qualified guides
✔ Twice a day medical health checkup, monitoring with pulse-oximeter and stethoscope.
✔ Midrange accommodations before & after the climb, bed & breakfast basis, double occupancy (Key’s Hotel, Nguchiro Palace Hotel)
✔ Orientation meeting in Moshi and gear check as well.
✔ Pick up and drop off to the Airport (Private transfers)
✔ Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees.
✔ Government tax (18% VAT ON TOUR FEE AND SERVICE)
✔ Mobile toilet
✔ Mountain climbing certificate
✔ Team Kilimanjaro rescue fees
✔ Fair Wages for the mountain crew as approved by Kilimanjaro national park Authority, and Kilimanjaro Association of Tour operator (KIATO)
✔ 3-4 porters per climber, which includes porters to carry up to 30 lbs/ 13.6 Kgs. of your personal gear.
✔ 4-season mountain tents, double occupancy.
✔ Mess tent, tables, chairs, double layer sleeping bag -250 C, 3 inches thick mattress and trekking poles.
✔ All meals while on the climb + evening tea with popcorn or peanuts.
✔ As much treated water you can drink while climbing.
✔ Hot water for washing up daily.

Luxury Included & Excludes.

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Testimonials

Very warm and welcoming travel agency, everything arranged very perfectly!. Whether it's mountain climbing arrangements or hunting tours, ..

陳佑香
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We attended the 7 days of Gillimazarohiking, all staff are very friendly and careful, get up in the morning careful to help us prepare hot water hot tea, .

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Our group had wonderful safari trip in northern Tanzania. It’s my personal first experience of safari but i would say i kinda fall in love into it right after this trip.

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