This itinerary outlines a 7-day variation of the Rongai route, including an additional day for acclimatization. The route ascends gradually towards Uhuru Peak, starting from the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Zshifam Travel suggests this route for climbers who lack prior experience at high altitudes, making it ideal for first-timers with minimal or no mountaineering background.
When it comes to difficulty, the Rongai route is considered moderate. It is less challenging than other more strenuous routes, featuring a gentle incline and a smooth approach to the summit.
The Rongai Route presents a relatively gentle incline; however, its primary drawback is the increased risk of altitude sickness (AMS) for climbers. This is due to the route’s less stringent adherence to the essential “climb high, sleep low” principle necessary for proper acclimatization. To mitigate the risk of high altitude sickness, we suggest incorporating an additional day for acclimatization when taking this route.
As you ascend to the summit via the Rongai Route, you’ll experience a diverse range of vegetation and climate zones. Starting with lush rainforests at lower elevations, you’ll move through moorlands and grassy slopes, eventually reaching alpine deserts as you gain altitude. On your descent towards the Marangu Gate, you’ll once again encounter tropical rainforests.
This route offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, as it runs alongside the Kenya-Tanzania border near Amboseli National Park, where you can spot elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and antelopes in their natural habitat.
The Rongai Route is not only picturesque but also less crowded, making it an ideal choice for private Kilimanjaro climbs and small, intimate groups.
Rongai Route Overview and Key Information
Distance: The Rongai route spans 72 kilometers (44 miles).
Location: This route approaches the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro from the northeast, close to the Kenya-Tanzania border.
Elevation: The Rongai route culminates at Uhuru Peak, which stands at an impressive 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).
Trail Conditions: Due to its location on the northeastern side, which experiences less rainfall than the southern slopes, the Rongai route is ideal for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro throughout the year.
Where will you be staying along this route?
Embarking on the 7-day Rongai Route itinerary offers an unparalleled camping experience on Kilimanjaro, with accommodations exclusively in tents set up by our Zshifam Travel porters at designated campsites along the trail. The adventure begins on Day 1 with an overnight stay at Simba Camp, followed by nights at Second Cave Camp, Kikelelwa Camp, and Mawenzi Tarn Camp. After reaching the summit via Kibo Hut Camp, you’ll descend using the Marangu Route. Additionally, the night before your climb, we will arrange a hotel room for you. If you prefer, we can also secure a comfortable hotel or lodge for you to unwind after your descent, whether before your flight home or as you continue on to a safari or the beaches of Zanzibar.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a Zshifam Travel guide will be there to greet you. Afterward, you will be taken to your hotel, allowing you to unwind after your journey.
As you prepare for your ascent, you will meet your guide prior to the climb. He will provide you with a briefing and share valuable recommendations on clothing, packing essentials, and other crucial tips to ensure your climbing experience is as enjoyable as possible.
Your journey commences as your guide collects you from your hotel and transports you for approximately two hours to the Rongai Gate. From there, the thrilling adventure unfolds as you ascend through stunning, verdant forests alive with a symphony of animal sounds. Following a lunch break, you proceed to the first campsite along the Rongai route, located on the more open northern side of the mountain. This serene path offers ample opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife.
Today's trek lasts between 5 to 6 hours, beginning with a challenging ascent that may make you aware of the altitude as you first spot Mawenzi Peak of Kilimanjaro. After some time, you'll reach the initial cave, allowing for a bit of exploration. Lunch will be enjoyed in the second cave. In the afternoon, the incline eases, and you will conclude your hike in a protected valley close to Kikelewa or the third cave.
Today, you will experience stunning vistas as you progress along this challenging hike. You will trek for approximately 4-5 hours in the morning, allowing the afternoon and evening for rest and to help your body acclimatize to the altitude. Your journey takes you to Mawenzi Tarn, where you will spend the night. This location is situated just below the Mawenzi summit, offering incredible views of both peaks of Kilimanjaro, Mawenzi and Kibo.
On the fourth day of your mountain adventure, prepare to be captivated by the otherworldly lunar terrain as you make your way to the higher camp. Kibo Camp, situated just beneath the Kibo summit, provides breathtaking vistas of the Kenyan plains. You'll trek for 5-6 hours through the alpine desert, taking a well-deserved break after lunch in the afternoon, as tomorrow marks the challenging ascent to the summit of Kilimanjaro!
At midnight, you embark on the ultimate ascent to Uhuru Peak, the tallest point in Africa! Get ready for an intense day of approximately 12 hours of trekking. After a challenging climb with your flashlight, you'll reach Gilman’s Point, from where Uhuru Peak is much more accessible. Experience one of the most breathtaking sunrises and take a moment to celebrate your accomplishment before making your way back down to Kibo Huts Camp for a meal. Then, continue your descent to Horombo Huts for an overnight rest.
On this concluding day, you make your way down through a stunning rainforest towards the Marangu Gate, the exit of Kilimanjaro National Park. This enjoyable trek lasts about 5 to 6 hours, culminating in a gathering where the entire group celebrates their achievements together. Afterwards, your driver will transport you back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Regrettably, your holiday has come to a close, and it's time to head back home. Make the most of your final hours in Tanzania before our driver arrives to take you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. Want to extend your adventure? You can easily add a few days of safari or a beach getaway to your Kilimanjaro experience!
