Rongai Route – 7 Days

7-Day Rongai Route Itinerary

The Rongai Route offers a quieter and scenic approach to Kilimanjaro from the north. This 7-day itinerary includes 2 nights at Mawenzi Tarn for optimal acclimatization before the summit push.

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

• Elevation: 2,000m to 2,625m
• Distance: 7 km
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Habitat: Montane Forest

Begin your trek from the northern side of Kilimanjaro. Walk through lush rainforest to Simba Camp with views of Kenyan plains.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelelwa Camp

• Elevation: 2,625m to 3,600m
• Distance: 16 km
• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland

Today’s long hike brings you into the open moorlands. Enjoy beautiful views as you reach Kikelelwa Camp, located in a sheltered valley.

Day 3: Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut

• Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
• Distance: 6 km
• Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

A steep but rewarding climb brings you to Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath Mawenzi Peak. This is one of the most scenic camps on the mountain.

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn

• Elevation: 4,330m
• Activity: Optional acclimatization hike
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Spend a second night at Mawenzi Tarn. Take a short acclimatization hike higher up and return to camp. This extra day increases your chances of a successful summit.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

• Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
• Distance: 9 km
• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert

Traverse the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks to reach Kibo Hut. Eat and rest early before your midnight summit attempt.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then down to Horombo Hut

• Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720m
• Distance: 21 km
• Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
• Habitat: Arctic to Moorland

Start your summit push at midnight. Reach the top of Africa at sunrise, then descend all the way to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

• Elevation: 3,720m to 1,840m
• Distance: 20 km
• Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
• Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest

Finish your trek with a descent through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your certificate and say farewell to your mountain team.

Included in the Package:

• All park fees and camping permits
• Tent accommodations and sleeping mats
• Three meals daily on the mountain
• Filtered water and hot drinks
• Certified, English-speaking guides
• Professional cooks and porters
• First aid kit and emergency oxygen
• Transport to and from the trailhead

Excluded from the Package:

• Flights and visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Tips for guides, porters, and cook
• Personal gear (available for rent)
• Hotel stays before/after trek

Price:

Please contact us for more details and pricing.