7 Days Hiking Kilimanjaro’s Rongai Route

Kilimanjaro Tanzania

Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Country

The Rongai Route is the only path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. Although it’s gaining popularity, it still sees low traffic, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to the crowded Marangu Route, a more remote hike, or a climb during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).

The Rongai Route requires a minimum of six days, with seven days recommended. While the scenery may not be as varied as on the western routes, Rongai compensates by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. The descent follows the Marangu Route. This moderately difficult route is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.

Day 1 | Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

After an early breakfast, we'll drive to the Rongai Gate, the starting point of our trek. Here, you will meet your guides and porters, complete registration formalities, and embark on the journey. The trail begins in the lush rainforest, gradually ascending through picturesque scenery. Along the way, you may spot various species of flora and fauna endemic to the region. After approximately 4-5 hours of hiking, we will reach Simba Camp, where you'll spend the night.

Elevation: Start at 1,950m, end at 2,650m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: Approximately 7 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Habitat: Rainforest

Day 2 | Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Today's trek takes us further into the alpine desert zone. The trail winds through rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As we gain elevation, you may start to feel the effects of altitude, so it's essential to stay hydrated and pace yourself accordingly. After about 4-6 hours of hiking, we will arrive at Second Cave Camp, our accommodation for the night.

Elevation: Start at 2,650m, end at 3,450m
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Habitat: Moorland

Day 3 | Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Continuing our ascent, we'll traverse across undulating terrain, passing through moorland dotted with unique plant species such as giant lobelias and senecios. The trail gradually gains elevation, providing stunning vistas of Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak on clear days. By late afternoon, we'll reach Kikelewa Camp, situated beneath Mawenzi Peak, where you'll spend the night acclimatizing to the altitude.

Elevation: Start at 3,450m, end at 3,600m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Habitat: Moorland

Day 4 | Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Today's trek involves a steady climb towards Mawenzi Tarn, nestled in a valley beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. As we ascend, you'll notice the landscape transitioning into a barren lunar-like terrain, with dramatic rock formations and sweeping vistas. Take it slow and steady to acclimatize to the increasing altitude. By early afternoon, we'll arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, where you can rest and admire the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Elevation: Start at 3,600m, end at 4,330m
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: Approximately 7 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5 | Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

With the summit in sight, we'll embark on the final leg of our journey towards Kibo Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. The trail ascends steadily across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, offering breathtaking views of the summit looming ahead. As we reach higher elevations, the air becomes thinner, making each step more challenging. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you'll have some time to rest and prepare for the summit push, which begins in the early hours of the next morning.

Elevation: Start at 4,330m, end at 4,700m
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 km
Difficulty: Difficult
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6 | Summit Attempt - Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and descent to Horombo Hut

Today is the culmination of your Kilimanjaro adventure as we embark on the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. We'll start the climb in the early hours of the morning, following a steep and challenging trail illuminated by headlamps. As the sun rises, we'll continue our ascent, taking breaks as needed to catch our breath and refuel. Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with unparalleled views and a sense of achievement like no other. After celebrating our success, we'll begin the descent back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut, where we'll spend our final night on the mountain.

Elevation: Start at 4,700m, ascend to 5,895m, descend to 3,720m
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
Distance: Approximately 20 km (8 km ascent, 12 km descent)
Difficulty: Very Difficult
Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

Day 7 | Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and transfer to Moshi

On our last day on the mountain, we'll descend through the rainforest, retracing our steps back to Marangu Gate. Here, you'll receive your summit certificates, commemorating your accomplishment. After bidding farewell to your guides and porters, we'll transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi, where you can relax and reflect on your incredible journey up Kilimanjaro. Tonight, celebrate your achievements with a well-deserved dinner and restful sleep.

Elevation: Start at 3,720m, end at 1,860m
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Habitat: Rainforest

Day 8 | Depart Tanzania

The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi or Arusha town and grab some gift shops before heading to the airport.

Safari, Cycling Adventures and other add-on are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania