Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Climb
OVERVIEW
The 7-day Rongai Route is one of the less crowded routes on Kilimanjaro, offering a unique experience with views of the Northern Circuit. It starts from the quieter, less-explored side of the mountain, passing through forests, alpine meadows, and rocky landscapes. This route gives plenty of time for acclimatization, improving your chances of reaching the summit. As with all our climbs, this is a completely private trek, whether you’re climbing solo or with a group. While the trek lasts 7 days on the mountain, the full itinerary covers 9 days, including arrival and departure.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you’ll be picked up and taken to your hotel in Arusha. Rest and get ready for the adventure ahead. Spend the night at Venus Premier Hotel, Arusha
Transfer from your hotel in Arusha to the Rongai starting point at Nalemuru Gate. After registering at the gate, enjoy a packed lunch before beginning your trek through the rainforest. Trek to Simba Camp, the first stop on your journey. Spend the night at Simba Camp.
Trek from Simba Camp to Kikilewa Camp. Along the way, take a break for lunch at Second Cave Camp, before continuing your climb through the alpine moorland and reaching Kikilewa Camp for the night. Spend the night at Kikilewa Camp.
Trek from Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by rugged terrain and breathtaking views of Mawenzi Peak. Spend the night at Mawenzi Tarn Camp.
Take a short acclimatization hike, gaining 200 meters in elevation. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and prepares you for the final summit climb. Spend the night at Mawenzi Tarn Camp.
Trek from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut Camp, passing through a more barren landscape as you approach the summit. Rest at Kibo Hut Camp and prepare for your summit attempt the following morning. Spend the night at Kibo Hut Camp.
Start your summit climb just after midnight. Reach Uhuru Peak at sunrise and celebrate your achievement as you take in the stunning views. Afterward, descend to Kibo Hut Camp for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut Camp for the night. Spend the night at Horombo Hut Camp.
Descend from Horombo Hut Camp to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha to relax and reflect on your accomplishment. Spend the night at Venus Premier Hotel, Arusha.
Transfer from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home, ending your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure. You can consider extending onto a magical Tanzania safari experience or rejuvenating on the sandy beaches of Zanzibar!