Description
The Rongai Route offers a unique and serene approach to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, known for its remote and less traveled path. This 7-day expedition is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil climb, away from the more crowded routes. Starting from the north side of Kilimanjaro near the Kenyan border, the Rongai Route ascends through a variety of ecosystems, from dense rainforests to alpine deserts and finally the icy arctic summit. The route allows for excellent acclimatization and boasts high success rates for reaching the summit. Along the way, climbers often encounter wildlife such as colobus monkeys and enjoy relatively gentle gradients compared to other routes.
Day by Day Itineray
Day 1: Arrival at Nalemoru Gate to Simba Camp
Begin your journey at the Nalemoru Gate (1,950 meters), completing necessary park formalities before starting the trek. The first day involves a gentle hike through farmland and pine forest where you might spot wildlife, leading up to Simba Camp (2,625 meters) for your first night on the mountain. This initial trek takes about 4-5 hours.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
The trek continues from Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters). The path gradually steepens and enters the moorland zone, offering sweeping views of the Kenyan plains. The day’s hike lasts about 6-7 hours, providing a more challenging but scenic trek as you head deeper into remote territories of Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Trek from Kikelewa Camp up to the striking Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 meters), nestled beneath the rugged peaks of Mawenzi. This shorter hike takes around 3-4 hours, allowing for ample time in the afternoon for acclimatization walks around the area, which is known for its stunning alpine scenery.
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Spend a full day at Mawenzi Tarn for acclimatization. Utilize this day to rest or take acclimatization hikes around the camp, which help your body adjust to the altitude and increase your chances of a successful summit bid. The rugged surroundings provide a fantastic backdrop for exploring and photography.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
Resume your ascent by crossing the lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Hut (4,700 meters). The hike is relatively flat but can be mentally challenging due to the barren, exposed landscape of the saddle. This trek takes about 5-6 hours, ending at the base camp from where you will launch your summit bid.
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Depart around midnight for the summit attempt, climbing steep scree and possibly snow to reach Gilman’s Point (5,685 meters) on the crater rim, followed by a hike to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa. The summit bid takes about 6-8 hours. After enjoying the sunrise at the summit, descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters) for a well-deserved rest, completing a long but exhilarating day of approximately 12-14 hours of hiking.
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Departure
Descend from Horombo Hut through moorland and forest layers back to Marangu Gate (1,860 meters). The descent takes about 5-6 hours, and upon reaching the gate, collect your summit certificates, celebrating your accomplishment. Afterward, transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, reflecting on your remarkable journey up Mount Kilimanjaro.