Kilimanjaro Climb via Rongai Route 9 Days

Reach new heights, conquer Kilimanjaro with us

The Rongai Route is a great choice for those seeking a quieter and less trafficked path up Kilimanjaro, as it approaches from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. This route offers stunning views of the mountain and the Kenyan plains, and is considered one of the easier options, making it ideal for those with less backpacking and hiking experience. The Rongai Route is also located in the rain shadow of the mountain, making adverse weather less likely to affect your climb. Our itinerary includes an acclimatization day and a relaxed morning before crossing the vast open saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, which is sure to inspire awe. The climb to the crater rim becomes steeper as you approach the high camp, and involves scrambling over Jamaica Rocks before reaching Gilman’s Point. The descent is via the Marangu Route.

Detailed itinerary

Day

01

Arrival & Briefing

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be transferred to your accommodation where your guide will meet you for a full briefing and equipment check.

Overnight Ameg Lodge (Classic) or Lake Chala Safari Lodge (Premium)

Day

02

Rongai Gate (1,950m/6,400ft) to Simba Camp (2,625m/8,610ft)

This morning you will drive for approximately 2-3 hours to the Rongai Nalemoru Gate, near the Kenyan border. After registering, begin your hike through the forest where you may see and hear wildlife, including black and white Colobus monkeys. Enjoy lunch on the trail, before continuing to the first campsite.

  • Rongai Gate (1,950m/6,400ft) to Simba Camp (2,625m/8,610ft)
  • Elevation Gain: 675m/2,210ft
  • Overnight Simba Camp

Day

03

Simba Camp (2,625m/8,610ft) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,800ft)

On day two, you will hike through Kilimanjaro’s moorland while enjoying the breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak ahead. The morning trek is steep and may cause you to feel the effects of altitude. Take a break to explore the first cave before stopping for lunch near the second cave. The afternoon trek is more gentle, as you contour across the moorland to camp in a sheltered valley. This leg of the journey takes approximately 6-8 hours.

  • Simba Camp (2,625m/8,610ft) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,800ft)
  • Elevation Gain: 975m/3,190ft
  • Overnight Kikelewa Camp

Day

04

Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,800ft) to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m/14,200ft)

Today’s itinerary includes a morning hike and afternoon rest to aid acclimatization. The trail is short but steep, offering excellent panoramic views and a true feeling of being in the wild. The campsite is situated beneath Mawenzi Peak and boasts breathtaking vistas of both Mawenzi and Kibo.

  • Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,800ft) to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m/14,200ft)
  • Elevation Gain: 730m/2,400ft
  • Overnight Mawenzi Tarn

Day

05

Barranco Campsite To Karanga Campsite

You can enjoy a leisurely breakfast today since you will be staying at Mawenzi Tarn for another night and won’t need to pack up. The morning will be dedicated to an acclimatization walk, which can either be a steep hike up the scree slopes towards Mawenzi Peak or a more gentle climb to the ridge or the lunar desert, where you can visit the site of a plane crash. After the walk, return to Mawenzi Tarn for a hot lunch and a restful afternoon.

  • Elevation Gain: 650m/2,130ft
  • Overnight Mawenzi Tarn

Day

06

Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m/14,200ft) to Kibo Huts Camp (4,700m/15,410ft)

Crossing the saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi provides breathtaking lunar-like vistas, however, it can be windy and exposed. The Kibo Huts Camp is situated right under the summit cone, providing magnificent views of the Kenyan plains and Mawenzi, while also offering a glimpse of the ascent that lies ahead. Following lunch and a comprehensive briefing for your summit attempt, take some time to rest and prepare yourself.

  • Elevation Gain: 370m/1,210ft
  • Overnight Kibo Huts Camp

Day

07

Kibo Huts (4,700m/15,410ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft) then descending to Horombo Huts (3,720m/12,200ft)

Commencing at midnight, embark on the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest elevation in Africa, relying on the illumination of your flashlight for the subsequent six hours. The segment of the climb up to the crater rim is the most demanding section of the entire hike, featuring mainly steep switchbacks, and a rocky area called Jamaica Rocks, which requires scrambling to approach the crater rim at Gilman’s Point (5,756m). The journey from Gilman’s to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb that is not excessively challenging in terms of hiking difficulty, but the altitude can make it feel arduous and protracted. After marking the summit with celebratory gestures, descend to Kibo Huts to have a meal before proceeding to Horombo Huts to camp for the night. The total time taken for trekking is roughly 14 hours, so it is recommended to prepare for a very strenuous day.

  • Elevation Gain: 1,195 m/3,930ft
  • Elevation Gain: 2,175m/7,140ft
  • Overnight Horombo Huts

Day

08

Horombo Huts (3,720m/12,200ft) to Marangu Gate (1,840m/6,040ft)to Moshi

Complete your Kilimanjaro trek with a descent towards the Marangu Gate, taking a beautiful path through the cloud forest. The estimated duration of this hike is 5-6 hours. Upon reaching the gate, you will be greeted and taken to Moshi by transfer.

  • Elevation Gain:1,880m/6,160ft
  • Overnight Ameg Lodge (Classic) or Pink Flamingo Boutique Hotel (Premium)

Departure

You’ll have a dayroom to pack, freshen up, and prepare for your journey back home. Before departing you may consider extending your adventure with a Tanzania safari or a well-deserved relaxation in Zanzibar. Choose to add on this exciting option and make the most of your trip with us at Glad Of Africa Safari & Tours.

 

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We understand that every traveler is different, and we want to make sure that your experience with us is nothing less than perfect. Therefore, please do not hesitate to let us know if you have any special requests or preferences that you would like us to consider when crafting your personalized itinerary. 

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