7 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro Via Rongai Route
The Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route is the newest and longest route, approaching from the west and offering stunning 360-degree mountain views.
DISCOVER MOUNT KILIMANJARO
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Duration: 7 days -
Difficulty: Moderate to Chalenging - Price Per Person: $ 1,920- $ 2,055
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Scenery: very Good
Overview: Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trekking
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route is a stunning and scenic experience, offering trekkers a unique perspective of the mountain from the northeastern side. This 7-day journey begins with a relaxed start, taking you through a variety of habitats, from lush forests to alpine deserts, before reaching the summit of the highest mountain in Africa, Uhuru Peak. The Rongai route is known for its gradual ascent, making it a great option for those who want a less crowded climb while still enjoying the full experience of the mountain. The trek offers spectacular views, challenging terrain, and an unforgettable adventure.
Trip Highlights
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Day 1: Drive to Rongai Gate – Simba Camp -
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave -
Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp -
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn -
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut -
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut -
Day 7: Descent from Horombo Hut to Gate and Transfer to Hotel
What is Included
- Airport transfers (pick-up and drop-off)
- National park fees and camping fees
- Rescue fees
- Oxygen cylinders and first aid kit
- All meals while on the mountain
- Cleaned, Purified and drinking water
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
- VAT (18% charged by government)
- Quality mess tents with table and chair
- Professional and experienced mountain guides
- All necessary trekking gear such as tents, sleeping bags, etc.
- Large portions of fresh, healthy and nutritious food
- Quality, waterproof, four-season mountain sleeping tents (on twin sharing basis)
What is not Included
- International and Domestic flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal items and gear (such as Clothing, trekking boots etc.)
- Soft drinks, alcohol or additional snacks
- Accommodation before and after trekking
- Tips and gratitude (senior guide $25 per day from the whole group, Assistant guide $20 per day for whole group, cooks $15 per day for whole group and Porters $10 per day from whole group.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and Transfer to Hotel
Your adventure begins upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide. You’ll be driven to your hotel in either Arusha or the Kilimanjaro area for check-in. After a short rest, your guide will provide you with a detailed briefing on the trekking route, safety measures, and general logistics. The evening is free to relax, prepare for the trek ahead, and get a good night’s sleep in anticipation of the upcoming adventure.
Kilimanjaro Trekking Gallery
Day 1: Drive to Rongai Gate – Simba Camp
After an early breakfast at the hotel, you’ll drive to the Rongai Gate, which marks the official starting point of your trek. Once the necessary permits are processed, you’ll begin your trek through the beautiful forest, where you may encounter diverse wildlife like colobus monkeys. The trail winds its way gently upward through lush vegetation before arriving at Simba Camp, your first overnight stop. This day is relatively easy to help you acclimatize to the altitude.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Rongai Gate (1,950 meters / 6,398 feet) to Simba Camp (2,650 meters / 8,694 feet) - Distance Covered: 8 km (5 miles)
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
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Habitat: Montane Forest
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Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner -
Overnight stay in tents
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
On this day, you’ll continue trekking upward to the Second Cave, crossing through beautiful moorland with ever-expanding views of the mountain’s eastern slopes. The terrain becomes more rugged and the vegetation thins out, revealing a more open, alpine environment. The day is a bit more strenuous, but it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the looming summit of Kibo Peak in the distance.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Simba Camp (2,650 meters / 8,694 feet) to Second Cave (3,450 meters / 11,319 feet) - Distance Covered: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
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Habitat: Montane Forest, Moorland
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. -
Overnight stay in tents
Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
Today’s hike takes you higher into the moorland zone, where the terrain becomes even more sparse. As you ascend, you’ll notice the air becoming thinner and the landscape more dramatic. You’ll have excellent views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and ice fields, as well as the jagged Mawenzi Peak in the distance. Kikelewa Camp is nestled at the base of the Mawenzi peak, offering a beautiful and serene environment to spend the night in. Acclimatization is key, and your guide will ensure that you take breaks as needed to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Second Cave (3,450 meters / 11,319 feet) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters / 11,811 feet) - Distance Covered: 8 km (5 miles)
- Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
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Habitat: Moorland
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. -
Overnight stay in tents
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
This day takes you higher up into the alpine desert zone, where vegetation is sparse and the terrain is more rugged and rocky. The route to Mawenzi Tarn is relatively short, but the altitude can begin to affect your energy levels, so it’s important to pace yourself. Mawenzi Tarn is a beautiful, tranquil spot surrounded by the towering Mawenzi Peak. It’s a great place for acclimatization and gives you stunning views of the surrounding environment, which feels almost otherworldly.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters / 11,811 feet) to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 meters / 14,200 feet) - Distance Covered: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
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Habitat: Moorland, Alpine Desert
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. -
Overnight stay in tents
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Today, you’ll make your way toward Kibo Hut, the final base camp before your summit attempt. The trail will take you through more challenging terrain, characterized by an alpine desert environment, with little vegetation and harsh winds. The ascent to Kibo Hut is gradual, but with the altitude, you will feel the effort more as you continue. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you’ll have the evening to rest and prepare for the long summit push the following night. Your guide will provide an early briefing and ensure that you are ready for the challenging climb ahead.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 meters / 14,200 feet) to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters / 15,420 feet) - Distance Covered: 9 km (5.6 miles)
- Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
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Habitat: Alpine Desert
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. -
Overnight stay in tents
Day 6: Summit Attempt – Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut
The final day is the most demanding. You’ll start your summit attempt at around midnight, walking through the night toward the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. The trail will take you through the harsh, arctic desert zone, where the temperature can drop below freezing. After several hours of challenging climbing, you’ll reach the summit, Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. The views at the summit are absolutely breathtaking and worth every step of the grueling climb. After taking time to enjoy the summit and capture your moment, you’ll descend to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Kibo Hut (4,700 meters / 15,420 feet) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters / 19,341 feet) to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters / 12,200 feet) - Distance Covered: 18 km (11.2 miles)
- Trekking Time: 10-13 hours
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Habitat: Arctic Desert, Summit
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. -
Overnight stay in tents
Day 7: Descent from Horombo Hut to Gate and Transfer to Hotel
After a restful night at Horombo Hut, you’ll begin your descent down to the Marangu Gate, passing through lush montane forests once again. The trek down is easier on the body, and you’ll enjoy the cool, shaded environment as you make your way back to the gate. Upon arrival at the gate, you’ll sign out, and a vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in either Kilimanjaro or Arusha, where you can relax and celebrate your accomplishment.
Trekking Features
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Elevation: Horombo Hut (3,720 meters / 12,200 feet) to Marangu Gate (1,830 meters / 6,004 feet) - Distance Covered: 20 km (12.4 miles)
- Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
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Habitat: Montane Forest
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Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. -
Overnight stay in tents
Price Per Person
SEASON & DATES
2 pax
4 pax
6 pax
PRICE
Per Person
$2,055 USD*
$1,955 USD*
$1,920 USD*
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Processing Fee
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FAQs About Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
What is the Rongai Route, and how difficult is it?
The Rongai Route is one of the easier routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its gradual slope and lower traffic. It is ideal for beginners or those seeking a less strenuous climb. The route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, and offers a unique perspective of the mountain.
How long does it take to climb Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route?
The Rongai Route typically takes 6-7 days to complete. A 7-day itinerary is recommended for better acclimatization and a higher chance of reaching the summit. The route is less steep compared to others, making it more manageable for less experienced climbers.
What is the success rate of the Rongai Route?
The success rate for the Rongai Route is relatively high, averaging around 85-90%, thanks to its gradual ascent and better acclimatization opportunities. Proper preparation and a well-planned itinerary further increase the likelihood of reaching Uhuru Peak.
What makes the Rongai Route unique compared to other routes?
The Rongai Route is unique because it is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, offering a different perspective of the mountain. It is also less crowded, passing through remote wilderness areas with diverse landscapes, including forests, moorlands, and alpine deserts. The route descends via the Marangu Route, providing a varied experience.
What should I pack for the Rongai Route?
Essential items for the Rongai Route include:
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Sturdy hiking boots
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Warm clothing (layers for varying temperatures)
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Sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures
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Trekking poles
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Headlamp and extra batteries
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High-energy snacks and hydration system
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Altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor)
The Rongai Route is less demanding, but proper gear is still essential for comfort and safety.
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