Tour Price
Prices are based on two adults sharing. Solo travelers and private groups, please contact us for a personalized quote.
Trip Info
Overview
The Rongai route is one of the least frequented of the official Kilimanjaro routes. The upside of this is that there will be few other climbers about and for most of the trek you are walking through virgin wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery. While it is flatter, it does not give the climb high sleep low option and therefore recommended to select more days for acclimatization.
Starting from the Rongai gate, the route traverses several diverse climate zones, and each produces its own amazing views and experiences. Because of its remote location, the route offers trekkers a relatively unspoiled wilderness experience where it is possible to see large wildlife like antelope, elephants, and buffalo. Heading up to Kikelewa Caves on day two, the views start to open up, with the Amboseli Plains of Kenya stretching into the distance. The route continues up to the mountain’s second summit at Mawenzi, before crossing the Saddle, a barren plain that connects the two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo. After reaching the summit, the descent is along the more heavily travelled Marangu route, offering you the chance to see Mount Kilimanjaro from both sides
Lying in the rain shadow of Kilimanjaro, the Rongai route is one of the best routes to make the attempt on Kilimanjaro during the rainy season, as it sees substantially less rain than the southern routes.
Destinations:
Itinerary Highligts
Day 1: Rongai Trailhead - Simba Camp
Day 2: Simba Camp - Kikelewa Camp
Day 3: Kikelewa Camp - Mawenzi Tarn
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn - Kibo Camp
Day 5: Kibo Camp – Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Trailhead - Simba Camp
Transfer from your hotel to Marangu Gate for registration and then a further transfer to the Rongai trailhead (approx. 2½ hours). Our porters prepare and pack our supplies and luggage before we start our ascent through the village of Nale Moru. The small winding path crosses maize fields before climbing gently through a pine forest until we reach First Cave Camp at 2,600m altitude.
- Transport: Private transfer (3 – 4 hours, 90 km)
- Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours (8 km)
- Ascent: 650 m
- altitude: 2600 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 2: Simba Camp - Kikelewa Camp
The trail continues up towards Kibo, passing Second Cave (3450m) en route, and reaching Kikelewa Caves at 3600m. From here the views start to open up and you will see for yourself how huge a mountain Kilimanjaro really is. The small shrubs of the moorland became thinner as you approve the Second Cave. Temperatures begin to drop.
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (6 km)
- Ascent: 1000 m
- altitude: 3600 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3: Kikelewa Camp - Mawenzi Tarn
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb all-around views and a tangible sense of wilderness. We leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn (4330 m), spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization.
- Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours (5 km)
- Ascent: 730 m
- altitude: 4330 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn - Kibo Camp
We cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Campsite (4750m) at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent tomorrow.
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours (8 km)
- Ascent: 420 m
- altitude: 4750 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5: Kibo Camp – Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut
You will be woken around 23:30 and after some tea and biscuits we will start our ascent. This is where the going really gets tough. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m). We then zigzag up to Gilman’s Point (5681m) on the crater rim. This section is very steep with much stone scree and is the most demanding section of the route. From Gilman’s Point we could encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long we can spend taking photographs before we descend back to Kibo Campsite and then Horombo Hut where we will stay overnight. Later in the evening we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
- Hiking time: 13 – 14 hours (20 km)
- Ascent: 1145 m
- Descent: 2175 m
- altitude: 5895 m
- Accommodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6: Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate
After breakfast we continue our descent, passing Mandara Hut, down to the Marangu Gate. Transfer to your hotel for a well-earned shower and celebration.
- Transport: Private transfer (1 hour, 40 km)
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (18 km)
- Descent: 1740 m
- altitude: 3720 m
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch Â
- Accommodation: Parkview Inn
Departure
You will be picked up from the hotel and transferred to the airport to catch up your flight back home.
- Meals: Breakfast
Note:Â Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, you have the option to extend your hotel stay till 6:00 PM for an extra fee.
Good To Know
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an adventure open to anyone with determination and a reasonable level of fitness, regardless of prior mountaineering experience. From seasoned trekkers seeking their next challenge to first-time climbers eager to push their limits, this journey welcomes adventurers from all walks of life. With various routes tailored to different skill levels and timeframes, Kilimanjaro offers something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner. The key to success lies in proper preparation, including physical training, mental resilience, and acclimatization to altitude. Families, solo travelers, and even groups celebrating milestones often embark on this life-changing journey, supported by expert guides who ensure safety and an unforgettable experience.
Includes
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Overnight stays in tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, chairs )
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water, tea & coffee
- Oxygen tank and oximeters
- All national park fees
- All national park fees
- Transfer from the hotel to the National Park gate and back
Excludes
- International or Local Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Gallery
Most Frequently Asked Questions
There are seven main routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai, Northern Circuit, and Umbwe. Each route varies in difficulty, scenery, and duration. The Marangu Route is known as the "Coca-Cola" route and is the only one offering hut accommodations, while the Machame Route, also called the "Whiskey" route, is popular for its diverse and scenic paths. The Lemosho and Shira routes offer beautiful vistas and lower traffic, making them ideal for those seeking a more solitary experience. Rongai is the only route starting from the north, and the Northern Circuit is the longest route, offering the most acclimatization time. Umbwe is the steepest and most challenging route, recommended for experienced climbers.
The duration of the climb depends on the route chosen. Typically, it takes between 5 to 10 days to reach the summit and descend. For instance, the Marangu Route can be completed in 5-6 days, while the Lemosho Route generally takes 7-8 days. The Northern Circuit, being the longest, can take 9-10 days. Additional acclimatization days can improve summit success rates and overall experience.
The best times to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are during the dry seasons: from January to early March and from June to October. These periods offer the best weather conditions, with less rain and clearer skies. Climbing during the wet seasons, from April to May and November to December, can be more challenging due to muddy trails and poor visibility.
No technical climbing skills are required to climb Kilimanjaro. It is a non-technical trek, meaning no ropes or special equipment are needed. However, it is a physically demanding hike due to the high altitude and varying terrain. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential for a successful climb.
Accommodations on Kilimanjaro vary by route. The Marangu Route offers hut accommodations with basic facilities such as beds, mattresses, and communal dining areas. Other routes, such as Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai, require camping in tents. Porters carry the camping equipment and set up the tents at designated campsites.
Physical preparation is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb. It is recommended to start training at least 2-3 months before the climb. Focus on aerobic exercises such as hiking, running, and cycling to build endurance. Strength training for legs, core, and upper body will also be beneficial. Practice hiking with a backpack to simulate the conditions on the mountain.
Packing for Kilimanjaro requires careful consideration of the weather and terrain. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), a good quality sleeping bag, a backpack, trekking poles, and a headlamp. Other important items are sun protection, a first aid kit, hydration systems, and high-energy snacks. A detailed packing list is usually provided by tour operators.
Yes, altitude sickness is common on Kilimanjaro due to the rapid ascent to high altitudes. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization, such as following the "pole pole" (slowly, slowly) approach, staying hydrated, and taking acclimatization days, can help mitigate the effects. Some climbers may also take medication like Diamox to prevent altitude sickness.
Yes, it is mandatory to climb Kilimanjaro with a licensed guide and porters. The Tanzanian government requires all climbers to be accompanied by a registered tour operator. Guides are experienced in navigation, first aid, and handling altitude-related issues, ensuring the safety and success of your climb.
The cost of climbing Kilimanjaro can vary widely depending on the route, duration, and tour operator. On average, expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 per person. This cost typically includes park fees, guide and porter fees, food, and accommodations. Additional expenses may include flights, gear, tips, and personal expenses.
Summit success rates vary by route and individual preparation. On average, the overall success rate for reaching the summit is around 65-75%. Routes that allow for more acclimatization days, such as Lemosho and Northern Circuit, generally have higher success rates, often exceeding 85%.
The food provided on Kilimanjaro is typically high in carbohydrates and calories to meet the energy demands of the climb. Meals often include porridge, bread, fruits, vegetables, pasta, rice, and meat. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with prior notice. Hydration is also crucial, and climbers are encouraged to drink plenty of water and hot beverages like tea.
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