Rongai Route
The Rongai route on mount Kilimanjaro is a seven-day camping route; it has the attraction of being a lower traffic and easier route compared to the southern slopes for climbing Kilimanjaro. It attracts about 10% of visitors to the mountain. The route is really a complete traverse, the only one to experience the arid northern side and the lush southern side. It’s also known as the loitokok route. Starting from the Kenyan side of the mountain in the north its advantages are a more gradual and easier route in terms of terrain, plus there are excellent clear views of the mountain all through the approach. There is also more opportunity to see wildlife such as buffalo, elephants,s and antelope.
General Expectations:
The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the border of Kenya and Tanzania. It is one of the less crowded routes, offering a unique and remote trekking experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Less Crowded and Remote Experience
- The Rongai Route is quieter than the more popular Machame and Marangu routes.
- It is ideal for those who prefer a peaceful trek with fewer climbers.
- Gradual Ascent and Good Acclimatization
- The route has a gentler slope, making it easier to hike compared to other routes.
- It provides good acclimatization opportunities, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
- Unique and Diverse Landscapes
- The trek starts in the dry northern side of Kilimanjaro, with open plains and farmland.
- As you ascend, you pass through moorland, alpine desert, and eventually glaciers at the summit.
- The descent is via the Marangu Route, offering a different view of the mountain.
- High Summit Success Rate
- The 7-day Rongai itinerary offers good acclimatization and increases the chance of reaching Uhuru Peak.
- The final ascent is challenging but manageable with proper preparation.
- Wildlife and Scenic Views
- You may encounter Colobus monkeys, elephants, and buffaloes in the lower forest zone.
- The views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park are stunning on clear days.
- Weather and Temperature
- The northern side of Kilimanjaro is drier, meaning less rain and clearer skies compared to the southern routes.
- Temperatures drop significantly at higher altitudes, especially at Kibo Hut and the summit.
- Summit Night Challenge
- The final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) starts at midnight from Kibo Hut.
- It is a tough climb due to steep terrain, cold temperatures, and high altitude.
- The reward is an unforgettable sunrise at the summit.
- Who is Rongai Route Best For?
- Trekkers who prefer a quieter route with fewer crowds.
- Hikers looking for a gradual ascent and better acclimatization.
- Those who want a unique experience with diverse landscapes.
Day 1 – Arrival
You will be met by one of our drivers at Kilimanjaro airport for an hour drive to Moshi or Arusha where you will spend a night before starting the hike the following day.
Day 2 – Moshi 800M – Rongai Camp 2800M
– 3hr drive, 4hrs walking
We depart early in the morning and drive around Kilimanjaro to the North side where the Rongai Gate is. It takes about 3hrs but offers some great views. After registering at the gate and sorting gear for the porters we then walk through the forest for 4hrs to reach Camp 1 at 2800m. This is a great day for seeing wildlife.
Day 3 – Rongai Camp 2800 – Kikelelwa Camp 3600M
– 6hrs walking
Today we move out on to the moorland of Kilimanjaro and have a longish day at 6hrs up to Camp 2 which is near Kikelewa Cave at 3600m.
Day 4 – Mawenzi Tarn Camp 4330M
– 5hrs walking
Today we are on open ground which at times can be steep as we make our way up to camp at the Mawenzi Tarn (4330m).
Day 5 – Acclimitization day
– Acclimitization day
Today is a rest and acclimatisation day at the tarn. You can relax at camp or go on some walks in area. This part of the mountain is beautiful and the views are stunning.
Day 6 – Mawenzi tarn – Kibo Hut 4730M
– 4hrs walking
4hrs open ground walking today with amazing views via the Saddle to reach camp near Kibo Hut at 4730m.
Day 7 – Kibo Hut to UHURU PEAK to Horombo Hut
-SUMMIT DAY12hrs walking
Night-time ascent on rock and scree, occasional snow, to the crater rim and the summit. Cold temperatures with windchill. We summit via Gilmans Point (5680m), which is 5 hrs up scree and a further 2 hrs to summit (5985m) and descend to Horombo Hut at 3800m (total 12 hrs).
Day 8- Mandara hut to Marangu gate
-Exit the mountain
We then descend to Marangu Gate, along an easy path back into and through the forest for 4 hours. We then transfer by road back to the hotel where a hot shower awaits.
END OF THE TOUR
The climb cost includes for lemosho route:
Transfers:
- Pick-up and drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport;
- Transfer to the trailhead – entry gate to Kilimanjaro National Park;
- Pick-up at the exit from Kilimanjaro National Park and transfer to the hotel;
Entry fees:
- All park fees collected by the Kilimanjaro National Park ( conservation fees, camping fees, crew fees, vehicle fee, rescue fee and all other fees collected by the Tanzania National Parks Authority).
Accommodation:
- One night at 3* hotel before the expedition and one night after; The hotels have everything for your comfortable stay – caring staff, nice rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool);
- Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (modern, comfortable 4-Season tents North Face VE-25 or Kilimanjaro Tents).
Please note:
All accommodation is on sharing basis (i.e. you will be sharing with your travel companion a twin/double room in the hotel and a tent during the hike. If you travel alone, we will match you with a same-sex adventurer).
Meals:
- Breakfast in the hotel before and after the hike;
- All meals on the hike. Our Kilimanjaro diet includes energy-rich and highly nutritious meals prepared by our professional high-altitude cooks.A typical diet on Kilimanjaro includes different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost;
- All drinks on the hike (coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water).
Hiking and safety equipment:
- 4-inch (10-cm) thick and comfortable sleeping mats;
- All group equipment (spacious and comfortable dining tent, camping table and chairs, crockery and cutlery);
- Oxygen cylinders and oximeters;
- GPS-tracking service;
- Complete medical kits.
Climbing crew:
- Professional guides, licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. All our guides are the holder of Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid certifications. All our guides have 4+years of successful mountaineering experience;
- Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).
The climb cost excludes:
- Airline tickets;
- Visa fee;
- Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the ascent);
- Personal gear rentals;
- Mountaineering insurance.
- This tour starts and ends in Arusha
- Book your own international flights when using this operator
- A transfer from and back to the airport is included
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost