Kilimanjaro Rongai Route 7 days

The Rongai route which is close to the Kenyan border approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side, the only route doing so. Slowly gaining popularity amongst climbers, it is still less crowded as compared to other routes. It has a more gradual slope and not steep, thus making it easier to ascend. It is preferred by those who want an alternative to the Marangu route which is pretty crowded during peak season. Furthermore, the northern side of the mountain receives less precipitation, thus making it easy even during the rainy season. Even if it has gradual slopes, it is a moderately difficult route and recommended for backpackers who are on their first Kilimanjaro trekking trip.Although the scenery is not up to the mark that’s on offer on the western routes, you’ll still be traversing a wilderness area for nearly the entire way up to the top. Descent is made via the Marangu route.Signature safari* offers Rongai as a seven day group climb or a six or seven private climb. The six day variation does not have an acclimatization day on day four at Mawenzi Tarn

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave.

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. Lunch on route either hot lunch or packed lunch.

Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft

Distance: 8 km/5 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Day 2: Rongai Cave to to Second Cave.

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. Lunch on route either hot lunch or packed lunch.

Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Heath

Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave

Elevation: 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Heath

Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

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.You can rest or explore the area for the rest of the day. Lunch on route either hot lunch or packed lunch.

Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft

Distance: 5 km/3 miles

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge.

This extra day is purposely for acclimatization, and you have the option of hiking on the 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. Lunch on route either hot lunch or packed lunch.

Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft -14,400 ft

Distance: 2 km/1 mile

Hiking Time: 1-2 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge.

Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft -14,400 ft

Distance: 2 km/1 mile

Hiking Time: 1-2 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5: Marwenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut.

We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our destination is situated at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall which is the Kibo Hut campsite. Once here, we prepare for the summit day following an early dinner. Lunch on route either hot lunch or packed lunch.

Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft

Distance: 8 km/5 miles

Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak.

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 can be extreme. Taking frequent short breaks, we’ll ascend in the darkness for two, three or more hours till we reach the Gilman Point which is located at an elevation of 18,6 00 ft. It is here at Gilman Point that you’ll get to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises you’ve ever seen in your life. Finally, after some more trekking, we’ll reach the Uhuru Peak which is the highest point in the continent of Africa.After celebration of your accomplishment, we begin our descend down to Horombo Hut. In the evening, we’ll have our last lunch in the mountain and go to sleep.

Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

 Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft

 Distance: 16 km/10 miles

 Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

 Habitat: Heath

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate.

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 (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft

Distance: 6 km/4 miles

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Habitat: Arctic