Mt. Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
Simba, Rongai, Kikelewa, Mawenzi, Uhuru, Horombo
The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro trail that begins on the remote northern side, near the Kenyan border. It offers a peaceful, scenic climb, far from the busier southern routes. This 8-day trek is perfect for those who want a gradual ascent, plenty of time to acclimatize, and a mix of landscapes, from lush rainforest to stark alpine desert and icy summit views. With one of the highest success rates, the Rongai Route is especially great for first-time high-altitude trekkers or anyone looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path journey to Uhuru Peak. Each stage is designed to let your body adjust naturally, giving you the best chance of safely and successfully reaching the top.
Daily Itinerary
What you will do
You will be met upon your arrival in JRO; and transfer to your Hotel in Arusha.
Accommodation
Value: Airport Planet Lodge Value Plus: Airport Planet Lodge
What you will do
Today we will pick you up from your hotel near the airport and drive to Marangu Gate for registration before being shuttled a further 70 kilometers on bumpy roads to the Rongai Start Point at 1,950 meters. The trek begins from Nalemoru village and follows a gradual and winding trail that first crosses maize fields before entering the rainforest. The first day’s hiking is easy and you will arrive at Rongai First Cave (2,620 meters) around mid-afternoon, where you can freshen up and have dinner.
Accommodation
Simba Camp (2,620 meters). B, L, D.
What you will do
On day two the hike continues from Rongai First Cave through the rainforest before transitioning into the low alpine moorland zone where you will notice the vegetation change to shrubs and grasses. You will stop for lunch at Rongai Second Cave (3,450 meters), 6km from the First Cave Camp, before turning east to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters) for your overnight stay.
Accommodation
Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters). B, L, D
What you will do
Day three on the Rongai Route is a short, but steep climb from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,300 meters) which sits in the shadow of the magnificent Mawenzi Peak. You will arrive at Mawenzi Tarn in time for lunch and then have the whole afternoon to explore the surrounding area and acclimatize.
Accommodation
Mawenzi Tarn (4,300 meters). B, L, D.
What you will do
Day four is a long but gradual hike from Mawenzi Tarn heading west through the Saddle which is formed between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi, and up to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters). The route is dry, barren and rather inhospitable, but provides spectacular views of Kibo. At Kibo Hut you will get served dinner and will go to bed early as you will be awoken around 23:30 to begin your summit attempt. Trekkers should remember to prepare their gear, including headlamp, camera, insulated water and warm weather clothes before they go to sleep. Note: Seven- and Eight-day trekkers typically hike from Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut and back on day four. They then trek to Kibo Hut again on day five before continuing to Uhuru peak on day six / seven.
Accommodation
Kibo Hut (4,700 meters). B, L, D.
What you will do
Day five begins at midnight, after being awoken with tea and biscuits you will begin your ascent in the dark across a rocky path to the first checkpoint, Hans Meyer Cave at 5,150 meters. You should have a break here and refuel on an energy bar. The path then zigzags and increases in steepness as you approach Gilman’s Point 2-3 hours later at 5,681 meters. You are now on Kibo’s crater rim, a huge achievement! But you still have a 200-meter ascent to trek to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters). Dig deep to find the reserves and mental stamina to push yourself up the final slopes. At Uhuru Peak, you will be able to stay briefly before descending back to Kibo Hut and on to Horombo Hut. In total, you will be trekking upwards of 12-16 hours. It will be one of the longest days of your life but well worth it! Here’s the good news, beers can be bought at Horombo Hut! Note: Seven- and Eight-day trekkers typically hike from Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut and back on day four. They then trek to Kibo Hut again on day five before continuing to Uhuru Peak on days six / seven.
Accommodation
Horombo Hut (3,720 meters). B, L, D.
What you will do
The final day from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,870 meters) is a long one, nearly 20km! Your knees will be sore from the previous day's hike, so go slowly and make sure of your footing as you descend, using your trekking poles to limit the impact on your joints. At Marangu Gate, you will now sign out. Those who got as far as Gilman’s Point but no further will be presented with a green certificate. Trekkers who made it all the way to Uhuru Peak will receive a gold certificate. Most trekkers present their trekking team with their hard-earned tips at this stage before being driven back to the hotel for a well-deserved hot shower!
Accommodation
Airport Planet Lodge - B, L.
What you will do
Transfer to Kilimanjaro airport for your return flight, B. or Proceed with safari with us.