The Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

7 days—This 7-day Kilimanjaro hike via Rongai route starts and ends in Moshi on the highest free-standing mountain in the world, rising over 5,895 meters

$1400-6000 USD

pp

Safari summary

This 7-day Rongai route on Kilimanjaro hiking is the best, easiest, and less crowded route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters (19341 feet), starting and ending in Moshi Tanzania. The best and most affordable price for the 7-day Rongai route is $1400 to $6000 per hiker; this price depends on budget, from midrange service to luxury service. It can also be paid in US dollars, Tanzanian shillings, Euros, or Pounds.

This 7 days Rongai route is a unique route that approaches on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, as it starts on the northern side near the Kenyan border, offering a remote and less crowded experience. This route provides trekkers with the opportunity to explore unspoiled wilderness and enjoy a serene environment. Along the way, hikers may encounter impressive wildlife such as antelopes, elephants, baboons, and buffaloes. The Rongai Route is particularly favored during the rainy season, as it provides a drier and more sheltered path. Throughout the trek, you will have the chance to admire the second highest point in Tanzania, Mawenzi, and enjoy panoramic views of the mountain's lush rainforest. Although the scenery on this route may not be as diverse as the western trails, it compensates with its passage through beautiful coniferous forests in truly untouched areas. The gradual ascent and proper acclimatization ensure a safe and successful journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, known as Uhuru Peak. However, the descent from the summit is made via the Marangu route.

The best time to climb Kilimanjaro is during the warmest and driest times of the year, from December, January to mid-March and mid-June, July, August, September, and the end of October in 2023, 2024, and 2025 all around the year. These periods offer more favorable weather conditions with lower chances of rainfall and clearer skies, increasing the chances of a successful summit and enhancing the overall experience.

The best highlights of Rongai route on Kilimanjaro
1. Experience the ultimate adventure by climbing the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, via the Rongai Route.
2. The Rongai route has more gradual slopes than the mountain’s other routes
3. This route is perfect for those seeking a more remote hike and for those who wish to attempt the summit during the rainy season
4. Hike through a true wilderness area towards the jagged Mawenzi Peak and cross the barren desert saddle before climbing up Kibo’s eastern crater wall
5. Hike wild, marvel at Mawenzi, cross desert, ascend Kibo, begin Nalemuru, descend Marangu, on Mount Kilimanjaro.


About this tour

Tour type Set-date, set-itinerary, group
Main focus Hiking | trekking
Activity level Strenuous activity
Best months January, February, June, July, August, September, October, December
Countries
Parks

Fine details

Safari highlights
  • Bird watching—with professional guide
What’s included?
  • Park fees

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi Tanzania

Arrive in Moshi, a town located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Rest and prepare for the trek. Meet with your guide and have a pre-climb briefing to discuss the details of the upcoming adventure.

White House Hotel

Day 2: Rongai gate to Simba Camp

Kilimanjaro

Drive from Moshi to the Rongai Gate, the starting point of the Rongai Route. Complete registration and formalities, then begin trekking through the rainforest. Reach the Simba Camp (2,600 meters / 8,530 feet) for the overnight stay.

Camping

Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikuletwa Camp

Kilimanjaro

Continue the hike through the moorland, with stunning views of the Kibo peak. Reach the Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters / 11,811 feet) for the night.

Camping

Day 4: Kikuletwa Camp to Mawenzi

Trek across the vast moorland and up a steep slope, arriving at the Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 meters / 14,206 feet). Enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and spend the night at the campsite.

Camping

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo

Continue the ascent through the alpine desert landscape, passing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Reach the Kibo Hut (4,700 meters / 15,420 feet), situated at the bottom of the Kibo crater. Rest and prepare for the summit push.

Camping

Day 6: Kibo to Uhuru to Horombo

Kilimanjaro

Begin the challenging overnight trek to the summit. Ascend via Gilman's Point (5,681 meters / 18,638 feet) and proceed to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet), the highest point in Africa. Take in the stunning sunrise and celebrate your achievement. Descend to the Horombo Hut (3,720 meters / 12,205 feet) for the night.

camping

Day 7: Horombo to Marangu Gate

Kilimanjaro

Complete the final leg of the descent, hiking through the rainforest to the Marangu Gate. Receive your well-deserved summit certificate and bid farewell to the mountain. Return to Moshi, where you can celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro climb and reflect on your incredible adventure.

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