Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking via Rongai Route

The Rongai Route is known for its unique approach to Mount Kilimanjaro, starting from the northern side of the mountain, close to the Kenyan border. This route offers trekkers a peaceful and scenic journey with excellent opportunities to spot wildlife, including Colobus monkeys and various bird species.

Details

Less Crowded: Compared to other routes, Rongai offers a quieter, more serene trekking experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy the mountain in solitude.
Gradual Ascent: The gradual slope and steady ascent make the Rongai Route one of the easier routes on Kilimanjaro, allowing for better acclimatization and increasing the chances of reaching the summit.
Diverse Landscapes: As you ascend, you will pass through diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, moorlands, alpine desert, and finally, the icy summit zone. Each day offers new and exciting scenery.

Trekking Time: 5 hours
Distance: Approx. 8 km
Vegetation: Montane Forest

Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a drive from Marangu Park Gate to the Rongai trailhead (1,950 m), approximately a 3-hour journey. Upon arrival, enjoy a packed lunch and begin your trek through cypress plantations and lush montane forest, where you may spot Colobus monkeys. The trail ends at 1st Caves Camp (2,600 m), where your porters will have set up camp. Relax and enjoy a warm meal as temperatures drop, preparing for the cold night ahead.

Overnight: 1st Caves Camp (2,600 m)
Meals: All included

Trekking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Distance: 9 km
Vegetation: Moorland

The trek continues through heather-covered moorland, offering expansive views as you head to Second Cave Camp (3,450 m) for lunch. After a rest, you proceed to Kikelelwa Cave (3,600 m), also known as the 3rd Cave. This section provides great acclimatization, ensuring your body adjusts well to the altitude.

Overnight: Kikelelwa Cave (3,600 m)
Meals: All included

Trekking Time: 3 to 4 hours
Distance: Approx. 6 km
Vegetation: Moorland

Today’s trek involves a gradual ascent, and the landscape changes dramatically as you approach Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m), nestled beneath the towering peaks of Mawenzi. After arriving, relax and enjoy a hot lunch before spending the afternoon exploring the surrounding ridges and towers, taking in stunning views of Kibo Peak.

Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)
Meals: All included

Trekking Time: 4 to 5 hours
Distance: Approx. 9 km
Vegetation: Alpine Desert

Start your day with an easy hike across the Northern Saddle, a barren alpine desert with hardy grasses and unique flowers. The Rongai and Marangu routes merge at this point, and you’ll face a steeper final section leading to Kibo Hut (4,700 m), where you’ll rest before your summit push. After dinner, your guide will brief you on the final ascent to Uhuru Peak.

Overnight: Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Meals: All included

Trekking Time: 8 hours to Uhuru Peak, 6 hours to Horombo Hut
Distance: 6 km ascent, 21 km descent
Vegetation: Stone scree / ice-cap summit

You will begin your summit attempt at midnight, trekking through a rocky path to William’s Point (5,000 m) and Hans Meyer Cave (5,150 m). After reaching Gillman’s Point (5,681 m), the final stretch to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) is snow-covered, and the views from Africa’s highest point are unforgettable. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Kibo Hut for lunch, and continue down to Horombo Hut (3,720 m) for a well-earned rest.

Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Meals: All included

Trekking Time: 6 hours
Distance: Approx. 27 km
Vegetation: Low alpine zone and montane forest

After breakfast, descend through the lush forest, passing Mandara Hut (2,700 m), and reach Marangu Gate (1,980 m). Here, you will receive your summit certificate and enjoy a farewell celebration with your trekking team. A transfer will take you back to your lodge in Moshi, where you can enjoy a well-deserved hot shower and a relaxing evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Destination

Jozani Forest

Menai Bay

Nakupenda Sandbank

Prison Island

Stone Town

Zanzibar