Welcome to
7 Day Rongai Route Kilimanjaro
The 7-day Rongai route is a gentle and scenic trail approaching Kilimanjaro from the north side, close to the Kenya border. Thanks to its gradual, steady ascent, this route is ideally suited to climbers looking for a less crowded trail with excellent acclimatisation opportunities. You will traverse diverse landscapes – from lush forest and open moorland to alpine desert – with an extra acclimatisation day at Mawenzi Tarn. Perfect for those who value peace, nature and a high chance of reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak.
Price per person from: $1.889
Duration: 7 days
Highlights
- As one of the quieter routes, the Rongai route offers a more private climbing experience
- The Rongai route is the only trail that starts on the north side of Kilimanjaro, close to the Kenyan border
- The Rongai route is known for its gradual ascent, which is excellent for acclimatisation
Group
Guaranteed Departure
Guided (English)
Physical Difficulty: Challenging
Minimum age: 12 years old
Itinerary
Start your journey with a 4-5-hour drive from Arusha to Rongai Gate, via the town of Moshi and picturesque rural areas. This route takes you to Kilimanjaro’s remote northern entrance – a peaceful and atmospheric start to your ascent.
Nale Muru to Simba Camp
The trek starts at Nale Muru (1,950 m) with a leisurely 3 to 4-hour walk through cultivated farmland and pine forest. Gradually you will reach the moorland zone. Simba Camp (2,625 m) lies on the edge of the high moor and offers sweeping views across the Kenyan plains.
From Simba Camp (2,625 m), the trail climbs gradually through the hilly landscape to Second Cave (3,450 m), where you take a short rest. The trail continues with impressive vistas of Mawenzi Peak and ends at Kikelewa Cave Camp (3,600 m) after a 6-7-hour hike – an important step in the acclimatisation process.
This 3-4-hour hike from Kikelewa Cave (3,600 m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m) rises steeply through alpine vegetation and rugged terrain. You will arrive at a beautifully situated camp below the jagged peak of Mawenzi – ideal for rest and acclimatisation.
Spend the day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m) to acclimatise your body to the altitude. You will usually take a short acclimatisation walk in the area, with stunning views of Mawenzi’s rugged peaks – a valuable step towards a successful summit ascent.
This 4-5-hour trek from Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m) to School Hut (4,750 m) traverses the high alpine desert landscape of the saddle between the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The trail is gradual but open and exposed, with impressive views and crucial acclimatisation before the summit ascent.
The summit day begins just after midnight with a demanding 6- to 8-hour climb from School Hut (4,750 m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Africa’s highest point. After admiring the sunrise and views from the summit, you will descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest. This is followed by the further descent to Horombo Hut (3,720 m). A long but unforgettable hiking day from 12 to 14 hours.
Descend from Horombo Hut (3,720 m) to Marangu Gate (1,870 m) on a 5- to 7-hour trek of about 20 km. The trail winds through moorland and lush rainforest, offering a last glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems. At the gate, you sign out and receive your summit certificate – the official end of your adventure.
Transfer back to your hotel in Arusha
After checking out at Marangu Gate, enjoy a comfortable 2.5- to 3-hour drive back to your hotel in Arusha. Along the way, you will pass picturesque foothills and local villages – a relaxing end to your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Inclusions
- All applicable taxes and VAT
- All park entrance, conservation, camping/hut and rescue fees
- English-speaking, KINAPA-certified mountain guides (according to required ratios)
- 1 porter per person (up to 15 kg of luggage)
- Specialised tent team to set up and maintain camp
- KPAP check for fair treatment of porters
- Trained mountain chef and waiter
- All mountain meals including eating utensils (cutlery, bowls, cups, etc.) )
- Pre-briefing and equipment check in Arusha
- 1 group transfer from lodge in Arusha to park gate
- 1 group return transfer from gate to lodge in Arusha
- Crew transport to remote gates (Lemosho/Rongai)
- Secure luggage storage during trek
- Boiled drinking water from first hut/ camp
- 1 emergency oxygen bottle per 5 climbers + first aid kit kit
- Two daily health checks with medical oximeter
- Shared use of public toilets at huts/camping sites
- 1 rubber duffel bag of approx. 100 L per person
- Basic sleeping mattress (for hut routes)
- Shared use of mountain huts or 4-season tents, including chairs, tables and dining tent (on camping routes)
Exclusions
- International flights (to/from your home country)
- Tips (guideline: US$10.00 p.p. per day)
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa costs, etc.)
- Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
