Why Choose Rongai Route?

Less Crowded

The only route approaching Kilimanjaro from the north, offering more solitude than southern routes.

Unique Landscape

Experience the wilderness of northern Kilimanjaro with its distinct flora and fauna.

Good Success Rate

With 80-85% summit success rate due to gradual ascent profile.

Pricing Options

Choose the duration that fits your schedule and budget

7 Day Trek

Recommended

The classic Rongai experience with optimal acclimatization

Excellent success rate (80-85%)
Less crowded northern approach
Scenic wilderness experience

Prices:

1 person: $2,200
2-5 persons: $1,800/person
6+ persons: $1,700/person

6 Day Trek

Budget Option

A faster-paced version of the Rongai Route

Good for experienced hikers
Same scenic northern approach
More challenging due to faster ascent

Prices:

1 person: $2,000
2-5 persons: $1,700/person
6+ persons: $1,650/person

Route Overview

6-7

Days

65-73km

Distance

75-85%

Success Rate

Moderate

Difficulty

Route History

The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. This route was traditionally used by climbers coming from Kenya and offers a more remote wilderness experience compared to the busier southern routes.

While not as frequently traveled as Marangu or Machame, Rongai has gained popularity among trekkers seeking solitude and a unique perspective of the mountain. The route's gradual ascent profile makes it one of the easier routes, though still challenging due to the high altitude.

Why Rongai Stands Out

What makes Rongai special is its unique northern approach, offering trekkers a different perspective of Kilimanjaro. The route passes through true wilderness areas where wildlife sightings (especially monkeys and antelope) are more common than on other routes. The final ascent joins the Marangu Route from Kibo Hut, but the majority of the trek is through less-visited terrain.

Pro Tip

The 7-day Rongai itinerary includes an extra acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn, significantly increasing your summit success chances. While the 6-day option is more budget-friendly, we recommend the 7-day version for better acclimatization.

Detailed Itinerary

7-day Rongai Route schedule with elevation profile

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you'll be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Here, you'll meet your guide and have a pre-climb briefing to discuss the adventure ahead.

Kilimanjaro International Airport

Moshi to Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,600m)

After breakfast, drive to the Rongai Gate near the Kenya-Tanzania border. The trek begins with a gentle hike through pine forest and then heathland to Simba Camp.

Duration

3-4 hours

Distance

8 km

Elevation Gain

+650m

Camp Altitude

2,600m

Simba Camp

Simba Camp (2,600m) to Second Cave (3,450m)

The trail continues through moorland with beautiful views of Kibo Peak. The vegetation becomes more sparse as you gain altitude, arriving at Second Cave Camp in the afternoon.

Duration

5-6 hours

Distance

10 km

Elevation Gain

+850m

Camp Altitude

3,450m

Second Cave Camp

Second Cave (3,450m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

Today's hike takes you through moorland and alpine desert with spectacular views of the Eastern Icefields on Kibo. The trail becomes more rugged as you approach Kikelewa Camp.

Duration

4-5 hours

Distance

6 km

Elevation Gain

+150m

Camp Altitude

3,600m

Kikelewa Camp

Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)

A short but steep climb up to Mawenzi Tarn, situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is free for acclimatization hikes around this spectacular location.

Duration

3-4 hours

Distance

5 km

Elevation Gain

+730m

Camp Altitude

4,330m

Mawenzi Tarn

Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)

Cross the lunar-like "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks to reach Kibo Hut at the base of Kibo's crater wall. Rest and prepare for your midnight summit attempt.

Duration

5-6 hours

Distance

8 km

Elevation Gain

+370m

Camp Altitude

4,700m

Kibo Hut

Summit Day: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Begin the final ascent around midnight, reaching Gilman's Point at dawn and continuing to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, descend to Horombo Hut for rest.

Duration

12-15 hours

Distance

18 km

Elevation

4,700m → 5,895m → 3,720m

Camp Altitude

3,720m

Uhuru Peak - Highest Point in Africa

Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,830m)

The final descent takes you through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates before transferring back to Moshi for celebration.

Duration

5-7 hours

Distance

20 km

Descent

-1,890m

Gate Altitude

1,830m

Marangu Gate - Journey's End

Trip Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

Pick up and drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Two nights accommodations in Moshi
Transfer to and from the mountain
18% VAT (Value Added Tax) on tour fees and service
Park fees
4-season mountain tent
Mess tents, lanterns, chairs, tables
Three hot meals daily on the mountain
Hot water for washing
Fair wages for the mountain crew: guides, cook, and porters
Emergency oxygen tank

Exclusions

Visa fees
Flights
Travel insurance
All items of personal nature
Lunch, dinner, and drinks at your hotel
Tips for the team: guides, cooks, and porters

Recommendation Tips:

Guide: $20-$25/day
Cook: $15-$20/day
Porters: $10/day

Additional Costs

Portable flash toilet: $100 for the entire trek
Extra hotel night in Moshi: Double room $100, Single $80
Extra porters for excess gear: $10/day

Requirements:

Good physical condition (for hiking and safaris)
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
Visa
Appropriate clothing for hot and cold temperatures
Camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing (Optional)

Pricing Information

Our Kilimanjaro pricing is subject to availability and may change without notice. The price is only guaranteed once paid for in full or in installments. Prices quoted are subject to changes outside our control, which may increase the cost of the product or service.

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