8 days

Rongai Route

8 days mount kilimanjaro trekking via Rongai route

The Rongai Route, the only path to Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, offers a distinct mountain perspective. It’s a less-traveled route, providing a unique and less crowded experience. The Rongai Route is known for its gentle ascent and diverse landscapes, making it one of the more accessible routes on the mountain. Here’s a detailed itinerary for a 7-day trek on this unique route

Overview of the Lemosho Route

Duration：

7 Days Trekking

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Distance

Approximately 73 km (45 miles)

Best Time to Climb

January to mid-March and June to October

Starting - End Point

Rongai Gate – Marangu Gate

Departure dates

Any day of your choice

Route

Rongai Route Trekking

Price per person

1 Person

Price From
$2,475
Per Person

2 – 3 Person

Price From
$ 2,240
Per Person

6 – 10 Person

Price From
$ 2,210
Per Person

11+ Person

Price From
$ 2,150
Per Person

Your Journey Mapped Out

Ready to set out? Your adventure awaits!

DAY 1 - Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) - Arusha
DAY 2 - Londorossi Gate to Big Tree Camp
DAY 3 - Big Tree Camp to Shira Camp 2
DAY 4 - Shira Camp 2 to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp
DAY 5 - Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp
DAY 6 - Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
DAY 7 - Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak to Mweka Camp
DAY 8 - Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Arusha
DAY 9 - Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport

Day 1

Kilimanjaro Airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your guide and the rest of your trekking team will meet you and take you to your hotel in Arusha. This day is for resting, meeting your team, and getting a briefing. Your team will consist of experienced guides, porters, and cooks who will ensure your safety, comfort, and well-being throughout the trek. Prepare your gear and take time to relax and adjust to the local climate.

Day 2

Rongai Gate (1950m) to Simba Camp (2650m)

Elevation: 1,950m to 2,650m (6,398ft to 8,694ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest

After breakfast, you will drive to the Rongai Gate for registration and the start of your trek. The trail winds through farmland and forest, offering a gentle climb. Along the way, you might spot wildlife, such as colobus monkeys. The day ends at Simba Camp, which provides a stunning view of the Kenyan plains.

Accommodation: Simba Camp

Day 3

Simba Camp (2650m) to Kikelewa Camp (3600m)

Elevation: 2,650m to 3,600m (8,694ft to 11,811ft)
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland

The trail goes from the forest to the moorland zone, which has fewer trees and more shrubs. Stop at the Second Cave for lunch and enjoy the view of Kibo and the eastern ice fields on the crater rim.

Day 4

Kikelewa Camp (3600m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m)

Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m (11,811ft to 14,206ft)
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s trek is shorter yet steeper. As one transition from the moorland to the alpine desert zone, the trail leads upward to the Mawenzi Tarn, a petite lake situated in the shelter of Mawenzi Peak. This camping area presents awe-inspiring vistas and stands out as one of the most picturesque locations on the mountain.

Day 5

Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m) to Kibo Hut (4700m)

Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m (14,206ft to 15,420ft)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s hike takes you through a rocky, moon-like terrain between two mountains, Mawenzi and Kibo until you reach Kibo Hut at the foot of the Kibo Crater Wall. This area looks very different from the lush forests at the beginning of the trek. You’ll take a break here to prepare for the final push to the summit, which starts at around midnight.

Day 6

Kibo Hut (4700m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Horombo Hut (3700m)

Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m to 3,700m (15,420ft to 19,341ft to 12,139ft)
Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

Summit day starts at midnight with a tough climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m). From there, you head to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, you’ll rest briefly at Kibo Hut before descending to Horombo Hut.

Day 7

Horombo Hut (3700m) to Marangu Gate (1860m) to Arusha

Elevation: 3,700m to 1,860m (12,139ft to 6,102ft)
Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Moorland to Rainforest

The final day involves descending to Marangu Gate through the moorland and rainforest. The trail is more accessible on the way down, and you’ll pass through Mandara Hut for a short break. You’ll receive your summit certificates at Marangu Gate and be driven back to your Arusha hotel.

Day 8

Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport

After a good night’s rest and a hearty breakfast, you’ll have time to explore Arusha or relax at the hotel. This time is crucial for rejuvenating your body and mind after the strenuous trek. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey on the rongai Route, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories and experiences that will bring you a smile every time you recall them.