7 Days – Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trek
The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s only route that approaches the summit from the north, near the Kenyan border. Known for its remote, less crowded paths, the Rongai Route offers trekkers a quieter experience with stunning views of Kenya’s vast wilderness. This 7-day itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day, making it suitable for trekkers who want to increase their chances of reaching the summit. The route traverses diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforest to open heathland and barren alpine desert, before reaching the summit via Kilimanjaro’s eastern side.
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| Included |
- Transfers from Arusha to Rongai Gate and back
- Park entry fees and camping fees
- All camping equipment and tents
- Professional guide, cook, and porters
- All meals on the mountain
- Rescue fees
- Certificate of completion
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| Excluded |
- Flights to/from Tanzania
- Personal gear and clothing
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for crew (recommended $20-$30/day)
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Details
The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s only route that approaches the summit from the north, near the Kenyan border. Known for its remote, less crowded paths, the Rongai Route offers trekkers a quieter experience with stunning views of Kenya’s vast wilderness.
The adventure begins with a drive from Arusha to Rongai Gate (1,950m), where registration and final gear checks take place. The trek starts on a gentle path that winds through farmland and pine forests, offering views of the Kenyan countryside. As you hike through the forest, keep an eye out for colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. After 3-4 hours, you’ll arrive at Simba Camp (2,625m), located at the edge of the moorland zone, where you’ll settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Today’s hike takes you further up through the heather and moorland zone, offering beautiful views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding landscape. The trail is a gradual ascent, giving you ample time to acclimate while taking in the expansive scenery. After 4-5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Second Cave Camp (3,450m), where you’ll have the afternoon to rest, enjoy a hot meal, and prepare for the next day’s adventure
After breakfast, you’ll continue trekking across the moorland, gradually gaining altitude as the landscape becomes more rugged. The route offers stunning views of Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest summit. Today’s trek is approximately 6-7 hours, ending at Kikelewa Camp (3,600m), where you’ll settle in and have time to relax. The evening light over the surrounding valleys and peaks creates a mesmerising setting.
Today, you’ll enjoy a shorter but steeper trek up to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m), located at the base of the jagged Mawenzi Peak. The trail becomes more challenging as you enter the alpine zone, with fewer plants and a stark, dramatic landscape. Reaching Mawenzi Tarn Camp after about 3-4 hours, you’ll have the afternoon to explore the surrounding area and acclimate. This scenic camp offers close-up views of Mawenzi Peak and is a favourite for trekkers.
This day is dedicated to acclimatisation, with a short trek up the slopes of Mawenzi to help your body adjust to the high altitude. The hike provides panoramic views of the plains below and Kilimanjaro’s main summit. After returning to camp, you’ll spend the rest of the day resting, hydrating, and preparing for the journey ahead. Acclimatisation days are essential for enhancing your chances of a successful summit attempt
Today, you’ll leave Mawenzi behind and trek across the “Saddle,” a high-altitude desert that connects Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. This barren landscape is a stark contrast to the lush vegetation of the earlier days, creating a surreal and quiet atmosphere. After a 5-6 hour hike, you’ll arrive at Kibo Hut (4,700m), where you’ll have an early dinner and go to bed early in preparation for the midnight summit push.
Your summit day begins around midnight, with a challenging ascent up a steep and rocky path to reach Gilman’s Point on the crater rim. As you near Gilman’s Point, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over Africa, illuminating the path to Uhuru Peak. After a final push, you’ll arrive at Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point on the continent. Following your celebration at the summit, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and lunch before continuing down to Horombo Hut (3,720m), where you’ll enjoy a restful night.
On the final day, you’ll descend through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate (1,860m), where you’ll be greeted with lush green surroundings and a warm welcome from the team. At the gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate to commemorate your achievement. After celebrating with your team, you’ll return to Arusha, where you can relax and reflect on your incredible journey
