Rongai Route 6-7 Days
The Rongai Route is one of the less crowded and more remote routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It approaches the mountain from the northern side, offering a gradual ascent and beautiful wilderness scenery.
Route Overview:
The Rongai Route begins near the Kenyan border, at the Rongai Gate. The trail winds through the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro, offering stunning views of the Kenyan plains and the unique landscapes of the northern side of the mountain. The route’s gradual ascent and descent along different paths allow for better acclimatization and a sense of seclusion.
Day by Day Itinerary Rongai Route 6-7 Days
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation
On the first day, you will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, where you will be met by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha town. Here, you will have a briefing session and prepare for the upcoming trek.
Day 2: Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,650m)
The trek begins at the Rongai Gate, near the Kenyan border. After completing the necessary registration formalities, you will embark on a gentle ascent through the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail takes you through scenic landscapes and offers glimpses of the Kenyan plains in the distance. After approximately 3-4 hours of trekking, you will reach the Simba Camp, where you will spend the night.
Day 3: Simba Camp (2,650m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)
On the third day, the trail continues its gradual ascent through the moorlands and rocky terrain. The landscape transforms into a unique and rugged environment, with giant heathers and volcanic rocks dominating the scenery. After approximately 6-7 hours of trekking, you will arrive at the Kikelewa Camp, where you will spend the night.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)
Today’s trek is relatively short but important for acclimatization. The trail takes you through the Mawenzi Tarn, a unique and expansive alpine desert, offering stunning views of the Mawenzi Peak. This day’s trek will take approximately 3-4 hours.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m) to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
The day begins with a steady ascent through the Kibo Saddle, a unique and challenging section of the trek. The trail takes you through the alpine desert, offering breathtaking views of the Kibo Peak and the surrounding glaciers. After approximately 4-5 hours of trekking, you will reach the Kibo Hut, your final campsite before the summit attempt.
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,700m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) and descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. You will wake up around midnight to begin the final ascent to the summit, Uhuru Peak. The climb is steep and demanding, but the stunning views of the glaciers and the sunrise over the clouds make it all worthwhile. After reaching the summit and taking in the breathtaking panoramas, you will descend to the Horombo Hut, where you will rest and recuperate.
Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,830m) and departure
On the final day, you will descend through the moorlands and rainforests, retracing your steps back to the Marangu Gate. The descent is relatively easier, and you will have the opportunity to spot wildlife and take in the lush surroundings one last time. After reaching the gate, you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Moshi or Arusha, where you can celebrate your achievements and prepare for your journey home.
Note: The Rongai Route can also be completed in 6 days by combining Day 5 and Day 6, with the ascent to Kibo Hut and the summit attempt occurring on the same day. However, this itinerary is more challenging and provides less time for acclimatization.
