Rongai Route Trek Adventure

7 Days

Moderate

Per Adult

2420

Overview

The 7-Day Rongai Route is one of the most scenic and less crowded paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the “Driest Route,” it’s perfect for trekkers who want a remote and peaceful experience. This route offers stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a high success rate, making it a favorite among climbers.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Trek through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts
  • Stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and surrounding landscapes
  • High success rate due to excellent acclimatization
  • Camping under the stars for a true wilderness experience
  • Wildlife encounters, including monkeys and antelopes

Itinerary in detail

Join us for an unforgettable trip to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro with our itinerary. Each day helps you adjust to the altitude, enjoy beautiful views, and have a rewarding hike. Here’s what to expect on your adventure:

1. Arrival and Briefing
  • Activity: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport. A driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel in Moshi.
  • Briefing: Meet your guide for a pre-trek briefing. They’ll explain the route, safety measures, and check your equipment to make sure you’re ready for the climb.
Accommodation Icon Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa
Meal Icon Dinner
2. Rongai Gate to 1st Caves Camp
  • Elevation: 1,950m/6,400ft to 2,600m/8,530ft
  • Distance: 8 km/5 miles | Hiking Time: 5 hours
  • Activity: Drive to Marangu Gate for registration, then transfer to the Rongai trailhead. Begin the trek through tall cornfields and pine forests.
  • Terrain: Montane forest with tall trees and cool, humid air.
  • Highlights: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and spot wildlife like monkeys.
Accommodation Icon 1st Caves Camp
Meal Icon Full Board
3. 1st Caves Camp to Kikelewa Cave
  • Elevation: 2,600m/8,530ft to 3,600m/11,810ft
  • Distance: 9 km/5.6 miles | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
  • Activity: Trek through moorlands to Kikelewa Cave. Pass by Second Cave for a lunch break.
  • Terrain: Moorlands with rocky trails and sparse vegetation.
  • Highlights: Stunning views of the surrounding landscape and exotic flora like giant lobelias.
Accommodation Icon Kikelewa Cave
Meal Icon Full Board
4. Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
  • Elevation: 3,600m/11,810ft to 4,330m/14,210ft
  • Distance: 6 km/3.7 miles | Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Activity: Trek through steep trails to Mawenzi Tarn Camp.
  • Terrain: Moorlands with rocky trails and dramatic landscapes.
  • Highlights: Breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding area.
Accommodation Icon Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Meal Icon Full Board
5. Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
  • Elevation: 4,330m/14,210ft to 4,700m/15,420ft
  • Distance: 8 km/5 miles | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Activity: Trek across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks to Kibo Hut.
  • Terrain: Alpine desert with rocky trails and barren landscapes.
  • Highlights: Stunning views of the surrounding peaks and prepare for the summit push.
Accommodation Icon Kibo Hut
Meal Icon Full Board
6. Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
  • Elevation: 4,700m/15,420ft to 5,895m/19,340ft (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720m/12,200ft (Horombo Hut)
  • Distance: 6 km/3.7 miles (ascent), 16 km/10 miles (descent)
  • Hiking Time: 8 hours (ascent), 6 hours (descent)
  • Activity: Begin the summit push at midnight. Trek to Gilman’s Point, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Horombo Hut.
  • Terrain: Steep, rocky trails with scree and snow near the summit.
  • Highlights: Witness the sunrise from the Roof of Africa and celebrate your achievement at Uhuru Peak. The descent is long but rewarding as you reflect on your accomplishment.
Accommodation Icon Horombo Hut
Meal Icon Full Board
7. Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
  • Elevation: 3,720m/12,200ft to 1,980m/6,500ft
  • Distance: 20 km/12.4 miles | Hiking Time: 6 hours
  • Activity: Descend through moorlands and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.
  • Terrain: Rainforest with muddy trails.
  • Highlights: Reflect on your incredible journey as you descend through the lush rainforest. Celebrate your success with a hot shower and well-deserved rest at the hotel.
Meal Icon Breakfast

The adventure ends here!

Best Time to Trek
  • January–March: Clear skies and warm weather.
  • June–October: Cooler temperatures and less rain.
Why Choose This Route?

The Rongai Route offers a remote and peaceful climb to Kilimanjaro’s summit, featuring diverse landscapes, stunning views, and a high success rate for trekkers seeking adventure and a deep connection with nature.

Duration

7 Days

2420

Per Adult

Kilimanjaro Mountain Africa (8)
Kilimanjaro Mountain Africa (6)

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