Rongai route

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Overview

The Rongai Route is a northern ascent route up Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. It’s known for its remoteness, offering a more wilderness experience than the busier southern routes. The hike traverses a variety of terrains, from semi-arid scrub at the lower elevations to lush rainforests, alpine moorlands, and eventually, the barren volcanic landscape near the summit.

One of the key advantages of the Rongai Route is its gradual ascent, making it a good option for acclimatization. The route typically takes 6 to 7 days to complete, and since it approaches from the north, near the Kenyan border, it is less crowded than other routes. Despite its remoteness, climbers are treated to stunning panoramic views, particularly of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park.

The Rongai Route’s summit attempt begins at night from the Kibo Hut, and climbers ascend to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) via Gilman’s Point. The descent is made down the Marangu Route, providing a diverse view of the mountain from both sides. This route is considered moderately difficult and is a popular choice for those seeking a quieter, more scenic Kilimanjaro experience.

Rongai route 7- days Itinerary

Day 1

Trekking from Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp

You will meet your mountain guides and crew in the morning before heading to Kilimanjaro National Park’s northern entrance, Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m). The head guide will handle the necessary permits and finalize the search and rescue registration.Today’s trek takes you through the coniferous forest on Kilimanjaro’s northern slope to Simba Camp, at an elevation of 2,625 m. The walk is moderate, and it’s important to maintain a comfortable pace without rushing. Once you reach Simba Camp, our professional mountain crew will have already pitched your tents and started preparing dinner.
Important Guidelines for Your First Day: Abstain from alcohol and caffeine: These can contribute to dehydration and altitude sickness. Drink over 4 liters of bottled water daily: Hydrate frequently in small sips to prevent dehydration. Take a Diamox pill: To alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s recommended to take Diamox in the morning before you start your ascent. However, always consult your doctor beforehand to ensure it’s safe for you, especially if you have allergies. Acclimatization Tips: At higher altitudes, you may experience some discomfort due to reduced oxygen levels during the night. This can lead to symptoms like headaches or mild sickness as your body acclimates to the change in altitude. Listen to your body, and if you begin to feel unwell, inform your guide immediately.Elevation Gain:Nalemuru Gate: 2,020 m Simba Camp: 2,625 m Walking Distance: 8 km Duration: 3-4 hours
Day 2

Trekking from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

After a hearty breakfast, the group will depart from Simba Camp to begin the trek to your second high-altitude camp, Second Cave Camp (3,480 m). The route is relatively easy, taking around 3 hours to complete. Upon arrival at Second Cave Camp, you’ll still have plenty of time to rest and explore the beautiful surroundings.After lunch, you will enjoy a couple of hours of relaxation followed by an acclimatization hike. This hike will take you towards Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) on a stretch of the Rongai Route. It’s a short trek with only a 100-meter gain in altitude. After reaching the highest point, you will return to Second Cave Camp.Important Notes: Acclimatization Hike: This is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude, designed to speed up the acclimatization process. These hikes are essential for your body to adjust to the higher altitudes, which greatly increases your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro. Ignoring acclimatization hikes can increase your risk of altitude sickness, so be sure to take them seriously. Altitude Gain:Simba Camp (2,625 m) — Second Cave Camp (3,480 m) Walking Distance: 4 km Duration: 2–3 hoursAcclimatization Hike:Second Cave Camp (3,480 m) — Kikilewa Camp (3,580 m) Walking Distance: 2.5 km Duration: 1–2 hours
Day 3

Trekking from Second cave Camp to Kikilewa Camp

After breakfast, you will begin trekking to Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m), where you’ll have the opportunity to witness the stunning views of Kibo Volcano, provided the weather is clear. This day is considered a relief day, designed to allow you to acclimatize and rest. After reaching Kikilewa Camp and having lunch, you’ll have some free time to relax and sleep, preparing yourself for the upcoming trek to Mawenzi Tarn Camp.In the evening, after dinner, the guide will conduct a health check for each member of the group to ensure everyone is coping well with the altitude. The guide will also provide important instructions for the next day’s trek.Key details:Altitude gain: Second Cave Camp (3,480 m) to Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) Walking distance: 5 km Duration: 3–4 hours
Day 4

Day 4 Trekking from Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Early wakeup, breakfast and the start of trekking to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, which is situated at the foot of Mawenzi Volcano, Kilimanjaro’s second summit. When you reach At the camp, you will have lunch and a two-hour rest, after which there will be an acclimatization hike towards Mawenzi Volcano with a 200-meter gain in altitude, followed by a hike back down to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, where you will have dinner in the evening. Altitude gain: Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) — Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m) Walking distance: 6 km Duration: 4–5 hrs Acclimatization hike: Altitude gain: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m) — Mawenzi Volcano (4,510 m) Walking distance: 2 km Duration: 1–2 hrs
Day 5

Trekking from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Camp

On this day, you’ll continue your trek towards Kibo Summit Camp (4,700 m). The landscape will change dramatically, giving way to a rocky, semi-desert terrain. Although the trekking itself is not very challenging, it’s important to maintain a steady pace to conserve your energy for the summit push later.Upon arrival at Kibo Camp, it’s essential to get plenty of rest, avoid any strenuous activities, and hydrate as much as possible. This preparation is crucial because, later that night, you will begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.Details for the day:Altitude gain: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m) to Kibo Camp (4,700 m) Walking distance: 9 km Duration: 5–6 hours
Day 6

Uhuru Peak Summit Attempt and Descent to Horombo Hut

The team will depart from School Hut Camp (4,715 m) at night to begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. This portion of the climb, though moderately graded, is taxing due to the high altitude, which places more strain on your cardiovascular system than your muscles.During the ascent, each guide will be assigned to two climbers, closely monitoring their fitness and well-being throughout this challenging section. Upon reaching the summit, you will have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views and even walk on the nearest glacier, depending on weather conditions.After reaching Uhuru Peak, the descent will begin, with a 2-hour rest stop at Kibo Camp. From there, you’ll continue descending to Horombo Camp (3,720 m). Keep in mind that 90% of climbing accidents occur during the descent, so it’s crucial to stay focused and watch your step.Details for the day:Altitude gain: Kibo Camp (4,700 m) – School Hut Camp (4,715 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Camp (3,720 m) Walking distance: 21 km Duration: 12–14 hours
Day 7

Final Descent to Marangu Gate

The final descent to Marangu Gate’s 1,860 m starts after breakfast. The stop at the gate presents a good opportunity for a last exchange of impressions and memories of the expedition with the whole of your support crew. The climbers will receive their certificates of achievement at our offices before being driven back to their hotel. Altitude gain: Horombo Camp (3,720 m) — Marangu Gate (1,860 m) Walking distance: 18 km Duration: 5–6 hrs

Include

  • Full Transportation (Airport pick-up and return day, as well as transport to the National Park and back to hotel)

  • Accommodations: B/B on the first day and F/B on the last day back from the mountain

  • All National Park fees

  • Oxygen cylinder, mask, and regulator

  • Food in the Mountain

  • Trip Tent

  • Oximeter readings

  • Professional Guide

  • Basic Sleeping Mattress

  • Emergency rescue

  • First Aid

Exclude

  • All personal Mountain equipment (gear)

  • Flying doctor {emergency evacuation membership}

  • Bites / Snacks and a 3-litre water bottle as well as a bladder 

  • Duffle bag and Sleeping bag 

  • Walking poles as well as Shoe Cramps

  • Other personal activities 
  • Sleeping bag, Summit Trouser and Summit Jacket 

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