Rongai Route

Rongai Route Overview

The northern Rongai route offers a relatively “easy” climb, a high success rate, a gradual and steady ascent, plus wildlife watching in the wilderness. The main draw of this Kilimanjaro route is the chance to get away from the crowds, so you can enjoy the incredible scenery. The six-day route via Mawenzi Tarn staying in well-staggered camps also means you’ll have more time to acclimatize and less risk of altitude sickness.

Although considered to be less scenic than the Lemosho and Machame routes, there are still oases of wilderness, especially on the later days of the hike and the camp beneath Mawenzi Peak is noted as one of the most scenic on the mountain. An additional benefit of the Rongai route is than the northern side of Kilimanjaro tends to be drier, so weather conditions are more favourable for climbing and camping. This is a big plus to consider if you’re trekking during Tanzania’s wetter seasons.

How Challenging is the Rongai Route?

The Rongai route presents a moderate level of difficulty, making it an ideal choice for adventurous backpackers seeking a memorable trek. Despite its challenges, it is highly recommended for its unique features and wildlife encounters.

1. Wildlife Encounters: The Rongai route starts from the northern side of the mountain, offering trekkers the opportunity to traverse through areas with a high density of wildlife. Spotting large antelopes, elephants, and buffalo adds an exciting dimension to the trek.

2. Acclimatization and Altitude: Opting for the Rongai Route 7 Days itinerary provides an additional day for acclimatization, allowing climbers to adjust gradually to the altitude. This helps mitigate the risk of altitude sickness and enhances overall safety and enjoyment of the journey.

3. Less Crowded: Unlike some of the more popular routes on Kilimanjaro, the Rongai route is less crowded, offering a more solitary and immersive experience in nature. This allows trekkers to soak in the tranquility of the surroundings and enjoy the route at their own pace.

Why Choose the Rongai Route?

4. Unique Starting Point: The Rongai Route stands out as the only route that commences from the northern circuit of Kilimanjaro. This unspoiled path provides unparalleled visibility of wildlife and offers a distinct perspective of the mountain.

5. Favorable Success Rate: With a success rate ranging from 80% to 90%, the Rongai route is renowned for its favorable summit success rate. Its gradual ascent and strategic acclimatization contribute to fewer altitude-related issues and a higher likelihood of reaching the summit.

6. Flexible Itinerary Options: Trekkers can choose between the Rongai Route 6 Days and Rongai Route 7 Days itineraries, both offering unique advantages. The 7-day itinerary is highly recommended for its additional day for acclimatization, enhancing climbers’ chances of summiting successfully.

Length and Details of the Rongai Route

7. Distance Covered: The Rongai route spans approximately 76 kilometers from gate to gate, offering trekkers a varied and rewarding journey through diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

Day-wise Distance Breakdown:
- Day 1: 8 km – Nalemuru Gate to Rainforest
- Day 2: 16 km – Low Alpine Moorland Zone
- Day 3: 3 km – Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
- Day 4: 0 km – Acclimatization Day
- Day 5: 9 km – Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Saddle
- Day 6: 21 km – Midnight Ascent through Rocky Path
- Day 7: 19 km – Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate

Success Rate of the Rongai Route

8. Summit Success Rate: The Rongai Route boasts a summit success rate of 80% to 90% with the standard 6-day itinerary and up to 90% with the 7-day itinerary. Proper acclimatization and strategic pacing contribute to its impressive success rates.

We strive to equip climbers with comprehensive guidance and resources for a successful summit on the Rongai Route. Join us for an unforgettable adventure on Kilimanjaro’s lesser-trodden path!

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6 Days Rongai Route Itinerary

DAY 1: NALE MURU GATE – SIMBA CAMP: 7km /5mi | 3-4 hrs | Rainforest

Elevation: 1997m/6552ft to 2635m/8645ft
Altitude gained: 638m

Departing from Moshi a 4-5 hour drive will take you through the coffee plantations and Village of Nale Muru to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful wooded scenery, and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife you are likely to see. Simba camp sits near the first cave at the edge of the moorland zone with spectacular views of the plains of Kenya.

DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP – SECOND CAVE CAMP: 5.8km/3.6mi | 5-6hrs | Moorland

Elevation: 2635m/8645ft to 3487m/11,440ft
Altitude gained: 852m

After a good night sleep and a hearty breakfast we continue along moorland terrain on a consistent ascending path. You will catch some terrific views of Kibo and get your first glimpse of the ice fields on the Eastern crater rim. The small shrubs of the moorland became thinner as you approve the Second Cave. Temperatures begin to drop.

DAY 3: SECOND CAVE CAMP – THIRD CAVE CAMP: 3.3km/2mi | 3-4hrs | Semi Desert

Elevation: 2635m/8645ft to 3936m/12,913ft
Altitude gained: 449m

After breakfast and packing, you continue your stead ascent, entering into the semi-desert terrain. This relatively short hiking day brings you closer to the Easter ice fields, continually drawing your attention to their beauty. Pay attention to your body and keep your guide informed of any signs of altitude sickness.

DAY 4: THIRD CAVE CAMP- KIBO HUTS: 6.7km/4.2mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert

Elevation: 3936m/12,913ft to 5174m/16975ft
Altitude gained: 1238m

As you depart early the semi-desert zone from the Third Cave early in the morning and begin your trek into the Alpine Desert terrain for the remainder of your ascent. Today’s hike will take you just below the Kibo crater wall to the Kibo Huts. At this point, you will merge with the Marangu Route, which you will use to hike to the summit. You will prepare your clothing and equipment (replace batteries for headlamp and camera) before you go to bed by 7 PM and try to catch a few hours of rest before your summit attempt.

DAY 5: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT: 4km /2.5 mi up | 5-7hrs | – HOROMBO HUTS: 15.75km /9.8mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit

Elevation: 5174m/16975ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 721m
Descent to 3721m/12,208ft
Altitude lost: 2174m

Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.

We continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers trying to stay warm and focused of the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak, you are likely to encounter snow all the way.

Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!

After photos, celebrations and maybe a few tears of joy we take a few moments to enjoy this incredible accomplishment. We begin our steep descent down to Mweka Camp, stopping at Barafu for lunch and a very brief rest. We strongly recommend gaiters and trekking poles for uncooperative loose gravel and volcano ash terrain. Well-deserved rest awaits you to enjoy your last evening on the mountain. Overnight Mweka Camp.

DAY 6: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – MOSHI: 20km/12.5mi |6-7hrs | Rainforest

Elevation: 3721m/12,208ft to 1905m/6250ft
Altitude lost: 1816m

After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here. You return back to the Marangu Park Gate and receive your summit certificates. As the weather is drastically warmer, the terrain is wet, muddy and steep and we highly recommend Gaiters and trekking poles. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you to drive you back to your hotel in Moshi (about 45 minutes). Enjoy a long over due hot shower, dinner and celebrations!!

7 Days Rongai Route Itinerary

DAY 1: NALE MURU GATE – SIMBA CAMP: 7k /4.3mi | 3-4 hrs | Rainfores

Elevation: 1997m/6552ft to 2635m/8645ft
Altitude gained: 638m

DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP – SECOND CAVE CAMP: 5.8km/3.6mi | 5-6hrs | Moorland

Elevation: 2635m/8645ft to 3487m/11,440ft
Altitude gained: 852m

DAY 3: SECOND CAVE CAMP – THIRD CAVE CAMP: 3.3km/2mi | 3-4hrs | Semi Desert

Elevation: 2635m/8645ft to 3936m/12,913ft
Altitude gained: 449m

DAY 4: KIKELEWA CAMP- MAWENZI TARN: 3.75km/2.3mi | 3-4hrs | Semi Desert

Elevation: 3487m/11440ft to 4302m/14114ft
Altitude gained: 627m

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, 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.
If you are spending an extra day on the mountain, you will camp for two nights here. You can hike up and around Mawenzi for your acclimatization hike.

DAY 5: MAWENZI TARN – KIBO HUT: 8.9km /5mi | 4-5hrs | Alpine Desert

Elevation: 4302m/14,114ft to 4714m/15,466ft
Altitude gained: 412m

Cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent on Summit Night.

DAY 6: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT: 4km /2.5 mi up | 5-7hrs | – HOROMBO HUTS: 15.75km /9.8mi down | 5-6hrs | Glaciers, Snow Capped Summit

Elevation: 4302m/14,114ft to 5895m/19,341ft
Altitude gained: 721m
Descent to 3721m/12,208ft
Altitude lost: 2174m

Excitement is building as morning comes with an early start between midnight and 2 a.m. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.

Congratulations, one step at a time you have now reached Uhuru Peak the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the entire continent of Africa!

DAY 7: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE – MOSHI: 20km/12.5mi |6-7hrs | Rainforest

Elevation: 3721m/12,208 to 1905m/6250ft
Altitude lost: 1816m

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Guide

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