Rongai Route Climb Kilimanjaro along the Rongai Route
Climbing Kilimanjaro along the Rongai route is a fascinating adventure that begins on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, offering a sense of solitude and tranquility, as the route sees fewer trekkers compared to other routes. The Rongai route is known for its gradual ascent profile, making it suitable for you who prefer a more gentle climb. This allows for better aclimatization and provides ample time to adapt to changing altitude and terrain, increasing your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
Accommodation is in tents throughout the trip.
DAY 1: From Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Initially, the trail passes through dense forest areas with lush vegetation, gradually ascending towards the moorland zone. The path offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery, including the Kibo (Uhuru) and Mawenzi Peaks of Kilimanjaro. If you are lucky, you might spot some wildlife such as colobus monkeys, duikers, or even the elusive mountain antelope known as eland. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Simba Camp.
DAY 2: From Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
The trail gradually takes you out of the moorland zone and into the alpine desert. This section of the route is known for its rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. The route offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, creating a breathtaking experience. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Second Cave Camp.
DAY 3: From Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp
You now traverse the moorland zone, characterized by expansive grasslands and heather vegetation. You may encounter varying terrain, including gentle slopes and rocky areas. The journey offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape and allows you to experience the unique flora and fauna of the mountain. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Kikelewa Camp.
DAY 4: From Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut
You will now enter into the alpine desert zone. The zone is characterized by barren landscapes with minimal vegetation. The journey involves ascending steep slopes and navigating through rocky terrain. You may also encounter scree slopes, loose rocks and gravel. Along the way, you will probably be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding glaciers. Lunch will be served upon arrival at Mawenzi Tarn Hat.
DAY 5: From Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut
You embark on the final leg of your ascent. This section of your journey takes place in the high alpine zone, where the landscape becomes increasingly rocky and barren. You will encounter challenging terrain, including steep slopes and scree fields, as you make your way towards Kibo Hut, where your lunch will be served.
DAY 6: From Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak - and from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
The final ascent to Uhuru Peak starts around midnight and is done via the Kibo Crater, an approach that offers a unique perspective and allows you to witness the dormant volcanic caldera up close. The rugged alpine desert landscape of the crater and the challenging trek to the summit make for an exhilarating and memorable experience.
After 6-7 hours climbing, you will make it to Gilman's Point, located on the crater rim. From there, you continue along the rim, passing Stella Point and finally reaching Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, after covering the distance along the Rongai route. Enjoy the breathtaking views and take memorable photos to commemorate your achievement.
After your celebration, you will commence your descent back to Kibo Hut for a well-deserved lunch. From there, you continue further to Horombo Hut where you can relax, regain your strength, and spend the night.
DAY 7: From Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
You will embark on your descent through the moorland, traversing varied and distinct landscapes. Expect a transition in vegetation from heath and moorland to the verdant rainforest. The journey presents breathtaking scenery and a rewarding feeling of achievement as you return to your Kilimanjaro expedition's starting point.
A lunch break will be enjoyed at a designated stop along the trail, offering a chance to relax and refuel.
Explore Mount Meru, and the other routes for climbing Kilimanjaro, Machame, Lemosho, Umbwe, Marangu, and Northern Circuit, as well - or take a look at the overview of which mountain route to choose.
RONGAI ROUTE OVERVIEW
The Rongai Route can be completed in 6 or 7 days. If you choose to do the climb in 6 days, you will hike directly from Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp.
SUMMIT SUCCES RATE: 95
ACCLIMATIZATION: Very good
DIFFICULTY: Easy
On the morning of day 1, you will check out of the hotel and be picked up by us. We will of course take care of storing your belongings while you are on the mountain. Together, we drive to the Rongai Gate, which takes about 1-2 hour from Moshi. After registering at the gate, you are ready to start climbing Kilimanjaro along the Rongai Route.
DAY 1:
From Rongai Gate at 2364 m / 7756 ft to Simba Camp at 2671 m / 8763 ft - 7 km. Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
DAY 2:
From Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp at 3450 m / 11319 ft - 8 km. Hiking duration: 5-6 hours
DAY 3:
From Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp at 3600 m / 11811 ft - 5 km. Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
DAY 4:
From Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut at 4315 m / 14157 ft - 3 km. Hiking duration: 3-4 hours
DAY 5:
From Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut at 4720 m / 15486 ft - 9 km. Hiking duration: 6 hours
DAY 6 - 'SUMMIT NIGHT':
From Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak at 5895 m / 19341 ft - and from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut at 3720 m / 12205 ft - 21 km. Hiking duration: 14 hours
DAY 7:
From Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate at 1860 m / 6102 ft - 19 km. Hiking duration: 7-8 hours
Km in total 72
Upon arrival at the gate, you will be rewarded with your certificate, issued by Kilimanjaro National Park, stating your successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro along the Rongai route.
Lunch will be served in a village between Marangu Gate where the Rongai route ends and Moshi. Back in our office, you will get back your belongings before we take you to your hotel or the airport.
The Rongai Route is for you who
prefers a less strenuous, quiter and more intimate trekking experience
desires to experience the mountain from a unique perspective
wants to climb while camping in scenic areas
More information
Do you want to climb Kilimanjaro along the Rongai Route? Go to our FAQ section for information about booking, prices, briefings, equipment checks, safety, acclimatization and much more.