7 Days Rongai Route
7 days—Kilimanjaro Trekking
From
$2154 USD
pp
Safari summary
The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds. Rongai has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation). Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience. Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for nearly the entire way. Descent is made via the Marangu route.
Destination : Mount Kilimanjaro
Departure Location : Rongai Gate, Kilimanjaro
Return Location : Marangu Gate, Kilimanjaro
About this tour
| Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
| Main focus | Hiking | trekking | |
| Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
| Best months | All months | |
| Countries | ||
| Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- Meals
- Park fees
What’s not included?
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Spa treatments
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave
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. Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft Distance: 8 km/5 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Rain Forest
Rongai Cave to to Second Cave
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 Kikelewa Cave for the night. Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft Distance: 6 km/4 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Heath
Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn
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. Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft Distance: 5 km/3 miles Hiking Time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert
Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge
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 Tarn for camp. Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft -14,400 ft Distance: 2 km/1 mile Hiking Time: 1-2 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
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. Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft Distance: 8 km/5 miles Hiking Time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Alpine Desert
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak
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. Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft Distance: 16 km/10 miles Hiking Time: 4-5 hours Habitat: Heath
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
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. Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft Distance: 20 km/12 miles Hiking Time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Rain Forest
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