7 Days Rongai Route Trekking

Tour Starts & Ends: Moshi

Combination with e.g. Zanzibar or Safari possible!

The Rongai route, also known as the “Nalemuru” route, is one of the lesser-used routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a more remote and tranquil trekking experience. This route approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side and is known for its scenic beauty and diverse landscapes. Trekkers on the Rongai route often encounter fewer crowds compared to other routes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quieter trekking experience.

DAY 1: Arrive at the Kilimanjaro International Airport

pick up and transferred to the Hotel

DAY 2: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation (ft): 6,398 ft to 8,530 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

Our journey begins with a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, where we complete park formalities before starting our trek. The trail winds through lush rainforest, offering glimpses of exotic wildlife and colorful bird species. We gradually ascend to Simba Camp, our first campsite, located amidst the tranquil wilderness.

DAY 3: Simba Camp to Kikelelwa Camp

Elevation (ft): 8,530 ft to 11,800 ft
Distance: 12 km/7 miles
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Moorland

Leaving the rainforest behind, the trail opens up to expansive views of the surrounding moorland as we ascend towards Kikelelwa Camp. We trek across rolling hills and rocky terrain, with the imposing peaks of Kilimanjaro looming in the distance.

DAY 4: Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation (ft): 11,800 ft to 14,160 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Continuing our ascent, we hike towards Mawenzi Tarn Camp, situated beneath the majestic Mawenzi Peak. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of Kilimanjaro's rugged landscape, with vast expanses of alpine desert stretching out before us.

DAY 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 9 km/6 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Our journey continues as we ascend towards Kibo Hut, our final base camp before the summit push. The trail leads us through the stark and barren alpine desert, with the summit of Kilimanjaro beckoning from above. At Kibo Hut, we rest and prepare for the challenging ascent ahead.

DAY 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then descent to Horombo Hut

Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak) to 12,205 ft (Horombo Hut)
Distance: 6 km/4 miles ascent, 16 km/10 miles descent
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours to Uhuru Peak, 4-6 hours descent
Habitat: Arctic, Moorland

In the early hours of the morning, we embark on the final push to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the African continent. The ascent is challenging, with trekkers navigating steep and icy terrain by the light of their headlamps. Upon reaching the summit, we celebrate our accomplishment before beginning the descent to Horombo Hut. Descending through various ecological zones, including the alpine desert and moorland, we finally arrive at Horombo Hut, where we spend our last night on the mountain.

DAY 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km/12 miles
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

On our last day of trekking, 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.

2 nights’ accommodation (before and after the climb)
Return transportation from Moshi to/from the starting/finishing point on the mountain
Qualified guides with mountain crew
Park fees
Tents and sleeping mattresses
Cutlery / Crockery / Eating utensils
Mess tent (for dining) / Mini camping chairs / Tables / Candles
Rescue Fees
Pulse oximeters
First aid kit
Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
Boiled water on the mountain
All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Guides, porters, waiter, cook accommodation and entry fees on the mountain
Emergency oxygen

Single rooms supplement at Chanya lodge (except on the 1 person rate)
Airport transfers
Guides, Porters, Cook & Waiters tips
Meals and drinks not specified
Gear for your climb
Items of personal nature
Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
Visas

Reach Out To Our Travel Expert

For personalized travel advice and expert guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated travel specialist. With a wealth of knowledge and a passion for crafting unforgettable journeys, they will assist you in planning your dream vacation, ensuring every detail is perfectly tailored to your desires. Contact us today for a truly exceptional travel experience.

WHY CHOOSE US

Best Vehicles

We use only new Land Cruisers produced in 2016-2023 and fitted with a fridge, Wi-Fi and sockets

Smart Planning

Our team of qualified safari experts knows how to tailor your adventure to your individual travel style

Licensed Operator

Annually approved for tour operating activities by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism

Quality Control

We personally inspect every lodge and park before they land on your travel itinerary