Overview

The 7-Day Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. Renowned for its scenic diversity, remote paths, and gentler slopes, this route offers a quieter trekking experience. With fewer crowds, stunning views, and high summit success rates, the Rongai Route is perfect for trekkers seeking a unique and rewarding Kilimanjaro adventure.
Best Time to Visit: June to October, December to February (dry seasons for clear skies and optimal trail conditions)

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Activities:
  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi.
  • Meet your guide for a detailed briefing and equipment check.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Moshi, such as Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel or Weru Weru River Lodge.
Meals: Dinner at the hotel.

Recovery: Rest and prepare for your trek.

Day 2: Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp (2,600 m)

• Distance: ~8 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~400 m
• Terrain: Forest trails with gentle slopes.

Highlights:

• Drive to Rongai Gate for registration and the trek’s start.
• Hike through pine forests and open fields, spotting wildlife like colobus monkeys.

Accommodation: Simba Camp (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Recovery: Relax and acclimatize in the tranquil camp setting.

Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450 m)

• Distance: ~8 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~850 m
• Terrain: Moorland with expansive views.

Highlights:

• Ascend through heather and moorland zones, with panoramic views of Kibo Peak.
• Optional short hike to improve acclimatization.

Accommodation: Second Cave (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Recovery: Hydrate and rest in preparation for higher altitudes.

Day 4: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m)

• Distance: ~6 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~150 m
• Terrain: Steep trails with rocky sections.

Highlights:

• Hike towards Mawenzi Peak, passing striking landscapes of alpine vegetation.
• Enjoy a quieter and more remote trekking experience.

Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Recovery: Rest and enjoy views of Mawenzi Peak.

Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315 m)

• Distance: ~5 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~715 m
• Terrain: Steep and rocky trails leading to Mawenzi Tarn.

Highlights:

• Arrive at the base of Mawenzi Peak, a dramatic and scenic campsite.
• Take an optional acclimatization hike around Mawenzi Tarn.

Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Recovery: Acclimatize and relax in the stunning alpine environment.

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

• Distance: ~9 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
• Elevation Gain: ~385 m
• Terrain: Gradual ascent across the lunar desert of the Saddle.

Highlights:

• Trek through the Saddle, a barren and otherworldly expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
• Prepare for the midnight summit push at Kibo Hut.

Accommodation: Kibo Hut (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Recovery: Rest early in preparation for the summit attempt.

Day 7: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

• Distance: ~6 km ascent to Uhuru Peak, ~15 km descent to Horombo Hut.
• Estimated Trekking Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 5-6 hours descent.
• Elevation Gain: ~1,195 m ascent, ~2,175 m descent.

Highlights:

• Begin your midnight trek to Uhuru Peak, reaching the Roof of Africa at sunrise.
• Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.

Accommodation: Horombo Hut (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Recovery: Celebrate your summit success and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

• Distance: ~20 km
• Estimated Trekking Time: 6-7 hours descent.

Highlights:

• Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
• Transfer back to Moshi for a celebratory meal.

Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Moshi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Tour Highlights

1. Unique Starting Point: Trek Kilimanjaro from the quieter northern side.
2. Scenic Diversity: Experience lush forests, moorlands, alpine deserts, and glaciers.
3. High Summit Success: A gradual ascent and acclimatization days improve your chances.
4. Stunning Campsites: Mawenzi Tarn and Simba Camp offer breathtaking views.
5. Unforgettable Summit: Reach Uhuru Peak for an unforgettable sunrise over Africa’s tallest mountain.

Accommodations

• On the Trail: Weatherproof tents and sleeping mats provided.
• In Moshi: Comfortable hotels like Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel or Green Mountain Hotel.

Meals

• Prepared by experienced trekking chefs to fuel your climb.
• Breakfasts: Hot porridge, eggs, toast, and tea/coffee.
• Lunches: Packed meals or hot dishes.
• Dinners: Soups, stews, pasta, rice, and other energy-rich options.

Who Is This Tour For?

• Trekkers seeking a quieter and less crowded Kilimanjaro experience.
• Adventurers looking for a gradual ascent with excellent acclimatization.
• Those wanting to explore Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes and unique landscapes.

Key Features

• Trekking Distance: ~70 km round trip.
• Inclusions:
  • Park entry fees and permits.
  • Professional guides, porters, and cooks.
  • Tents and meals during the trek.
  • Transfers to and from the trailhead.
• Exclusions:
  • Personal trekking gear (available for rent).
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cooks.

Pricing Estimate

Cost: $2,200–$3,200 USD per person, depending on:

• Group size (discounts for larger groups).
• Accommodation type in Moshi.
• Additional gear rentals or add-ons.