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  • 7 Days, 6 Nights Trek

- Rongai Route -

  • Kilimanjaro Mountain Climbing via Rongai route

Rongai is the only route starting on the northern slope of Kilimanjaro. Though this part of the Mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it is not less interesting than the popular southern and western slopes. We recommend Rongai to all those who like reclusive hiking experiences.

Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro and the third highest peak in Africa. The way back lies through Marangu,  and thus you will be able to see both sides of the mountain. Though six and seven-day programs are available, a longer option is recommended for better acclimatization transition.

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave

Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft
Hiking Time:  3-4 hours

Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.

Day 2: Rongai Cave to Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave

Rongai Cave to to Second Cave

Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave

Elevation: 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

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Distance: 6 km | 4 miles Habitat: Health

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Distance: 6 km | 4 miles Habitat: Health

We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.

Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles Habitat: Alpine Desert

The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Tarn

Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge

Elevation: 14,160 ft -14,400 ft Hiking Time: 1-2 hours

Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Tarn

Elevation: 14,400 ft -14,160 ft Hiking Time: 1-2 hours

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Distance: 2 km | 1 miles Habitat: Alpine Desert

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Distance: 2 km | 1 miles Habitat: Alpine Desert

This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp.

Day 5: Marwenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 8 km | 5 miles Habitat: Alpine Desert

We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

School Hut to Uhuru Peak

Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft Hiking Time: 6-8 hours

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

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Distance: 6 km | 4 miles Habitat: Arctic

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Distance: 16 km | 10 miles Habitat: Health

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 20 km | 12 miles Habitat: Rain Forest

On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

Route Map

Inquiry

  • Cost Covers
  • All Entrance fees and Government taxes
  • Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and Departure)
  • Clean, purified drinking water
  • Fair wages for the mountain crew.
  • All meals while on the Mountain
  • Rescue Fees and all taxes.
  • Salaries for Porters, Cook, and Guides
  • Oxygen Tanks, Pulse Oximeter, and First Aid Kit
  • Transfers from Hotel to Kilimanjaro entrance gate and from Kilimanjaro exit gate to the hotel.
  • Cost Does not Cover
  • International and local airfare.
  • Yellow fever vaccinations
  • Passport, Visa, and Travelers Insurance
  • Local transportation before and after the climb.
  • Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
  • Tips for the support team
  • Private Toilet and hot shower tent
  • Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.

DISCLAIMER

Please note all trip prices are based on our own Company costs, fees, and supplier prices in effect at the time of booking. We reserves the right to alter trip prices should inflation, cost of fuel, labor, materials, or exchange rates change. If the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) raises park fees, or any hotel, lodge, camp or any other service provider raises their rates, We reserves the right to require additional payment from the client.

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