Kilimanjaro Rongai Route 7 Days

Kilimanjaro Tanzania

From

$1880.00

Duration

7 days

Tour Type

Explore Tours

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.

Tour Highlights:

  • Departure and Return Place: Moshi Town to Rongai Route and then back to Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map)
  • Departure Time: Please be ready by 8:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
  • Return Time: Approximately 10:30 AM on the last day.
  • Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hats, cold-weather jackets, gloves, pants, and spare clothing.
  • Accommodation: Two nights of accommodations based on bed and breakfast at a 3-star hotel (upgrades on request).
  • Customizations: Can be customized upon request to meet travelers’s needs
  • Extensions: Trip Extensions are available on request.
  • Trip Availability: All year round.

Included/Exclude

  • Ground transfers with pick up and drop of at Kilimanjaro airport and the base hotel in Moshi
  • Park entrance fees,
  • Camping/Hut fees
  • Rescue fees,
  • Emergency Oxygen at not extra charge
  • Medical / First aid Kit.
  • Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, to measure clients oxygen saturation and pulse rate.
  • 24 Hours standby radio Communication
  • 3 litres of Mineral water on the first day per client
  • Hot meals (except first day) served in the mess tent.
  • 4 season sleeping tents
  • 2 inches mattress 1 per client
  • Professional Mountain Guide, Park Fees and Salaries
  • Porters,
  • First and last night accommodation
  • Flying Doctor membership cover
  • Forest fees for clients and crews
  • Personal gears
  • climbing equipment
  • sleeping bags
  • drinks
  • tipping and all other expenses of personal nature.

Tour Plan

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
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

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.

Rongai Cave to to Second Cave

Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
Elevation: 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
.
Distance: 6 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Heath
.
Distance: 6 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Heath

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
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert

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.

Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge
Elevation: 14,160 ft -14,400 ft
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours

Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Tarn
Elevation: 14,400 ft -14,160 ft
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
.
Distance: 2 km | 1 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert
.
Distance: 2 km | 1 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert

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: 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert

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. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

School Hut to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 12,205 ft
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
.
Distance: 6 km | 4 miles
Habitat: Arctic
.
Distance: 16 km | 10 miles
Habitat: Heath

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: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Hiking Time: 7-9 hours
Distance: 20 km | 12 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

Map

Kilimanjaro Rongai Route 7 Days

Accommodations

Two Nights Hotel Accommodations
   One before and after the Kilimanjaro hiking adventure. Our recommended options include:
  1. Keys Hotel: Comfortable and contemporary stay.
  2. Ameg Lodge: Tranquil retreat amidst picturesque landscapes.
  3. Lindrin Lodge: Charming and rustic ambience.
  4. Parkview Inn: Convenient location with well-appointed rooms.
  5. Chanya Lodge: Exceptional service and warm hospitality.

Price per person

Number of People Cost Per Person
1 person $2,600
2 people $2380
3 people $2,050
4 people $2,000
5 people $1,980
6 people $1,960
7 people $1,940
8 people $1,920
9 people $1,900
10 people + $1,880

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Tour Information

Max Guests

25

Min Age

13+

Tour Location

Languages Support

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