7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb via Rongai Route

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route offers a unique, less crowded alternative to the more popular Marangu and Machame routes. The Rongai Route begins from the northern side of the mountain and provides scenic views, beautiful landscapes, and a challenging yet rewarding ascent to the summit. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the climb, including elevation, habitat, time, distance, and accommodations.

“The lion is the king of the jungle, but the mountain is the king of the world. And Kilimanjaro is the king of them all.”

Ernest Hemingway

Safari Highlights

  • Stunning Summit Views
    Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro offers breathtaking views from its summit, Uhuru Peak, at 5,895 meters. Witness awe-inspiring panoramas of glaciers, vast savannahs, and the African plains below, making the ascent a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

  • Diverse Ecosystems
    Mount Kilimanjaro features diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests at the base to alpine deserts near the summit. Climbers pass through different vegetation zones, each offering unique flora, fauna, and landscapes, showcasing nature’s incredible diversity.

  • Challenging Climb with Rewarding Success
    Trekking Kilimanjaro presents a challenging yet achievable adventure. The physical test, combined with high-altitude conditions, culminates in the exhilarating sense of accomplishment at the summit, where climbers are rewarded with unforgettable vistas and a personal achievement.

  • Cultural and Spiritual Significance
    Mount Kilimanjaro holds cultural and spiritual significance for local communities, particularly the Chagga people. Its towering presence, steeped in history, offers climbers the chance to connect with the land’s heritage and understand its deep-rooted cultural importance.

Itenerary

Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for overnight accommodation. This is a great time to rest and prepare for the upcoming trek.

 Accommodation: River Trees Country Inn or Arusha Coffee Lodge.

Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,650m (8,694ft)
Distance: 8km
Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane forest
Accommodation: Simba Camp (2,650m)


Activity: After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the Rongai Gate, which is located on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. Once you complete the registration and entry process, start your trek through the forest, encountering a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys and birds. As you climb, enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the lesser-trodden Rongai Route

Elevation: 2,650m (8,694ft) to 3,450m (11,319ft)
Distance: 8km
Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Second Cave Camp (3,450m)


Activity: After breakfast, you will continue your ascent, heading into the moorland zone. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mount Kilimanjaro’s snowy peaks. This is a great day for acclimatization as you get higher up the mountain.

Elevation: 3,450m (11,319ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft)
Distance: 6km
Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Accommodation: Kikelewa Cave Camp (3,600m)


Activity: Today’s trek takes you further through the moorland zone, offering breathtaking views of the mountain. You will begin to notice the change in vegetation as you approach the higher altitudes. Kikelewa Cave Camp offers a chance to rest and enjoy the tranquility of the mountain.

Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,200ft)
Distance: 6km
Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)


Activity: The trek today takes you into the alpine desert zone, which is a dramatic change in landscape. You will walk up to the base of Mawenzi Peak, one of the highest peaks on Kilimanjaro. The terrain becomes more rocky and barren, with the stunning Mawenzi Tarn Camp as your destination. The altitude here allows for better acclimatization as you prepare for the summit.

Elevation: 4,330m (14,200ft) to 4,700m (15,420ft)
Distance: 9km
Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Accommodation: Kibo Camp (4,700m)


Activity: This is one of the most challenging days of the trek as you ascend through the alpine desert to Kibo Camp. The terrain becomes progressively more barren, and the thin air adds a layer of difficulty. Kibo Camp is your base for the final ascent, and it is essential to rest here and hydrate before the summit attempt the next day.

Elevation: 4,700m (15,420ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
Distance: 19km
Time: 12-15 hours (Summit day)
Habitat: Arctic (Summit), Moorland (Descent)
Accommodation: Horombo Camp (3,720m)


Activity: The summit day starts very early in the morning, usually around midnight, as you begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak. The climb is long and strenuous, taking approximately 6-8 hours to reach the summit. Once at the peak, enjoy the incredible views and celebrate your accomplishment before descending to Horombo Camp. The descent is a significant relief, and you will rest at Horombo Camp after the long day.

Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,830m (6,004ft)
Distance: 20km
Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Accommodation: Return to Moshi/Arusha for overnight accommodation

Activity: On the final day of your trek, you will descend from Horombo Camp to the Marangu Gate through the lush rainforest. Enjoy the scenic walk and celebrate your accomplishment once you reach the gate. Afterward, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can relax and enjoy a celebratory dinner.

Suggested Accommodation: River Trees Country Inn or Arusha Coffee Lodge.

On your departure day, we ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. After a final breakfast, our team will assist you with check-out and transport to the airport for your onward flight. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, we aim to make your departure as seamless as your adventure. If time allows, feel free to explore a bit more of the local area, or simply relax before your journey. We look forward to welcoming you back for future expeditions with The Hub Tours and Safaris!

What is Included & Not Included

Prices

-
2 Pax
4 Pax
6+ Pax
7 Days Rongai Route
$ 2,569
$ 2,271
$ 2,177

FROM

For questions or booking inquiries, call +255 686 700 700 or contact us.

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