The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers who want to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai route, this route still experiences low crowds. The 7-day Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai route has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes and therefore is recommended for those with less backpacking experience. Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation). Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, climbing Kilimanjaro Rongai route makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas nearly the entire way. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai route the descent is made via the Marangu route.
Moshi Town (Google Map)
Early In The Morning
Camping/ huts
We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 6,398 ft. to 9,300 ft.
Distance: 8 km
We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking through moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
Elevation: 11,300 ft. to 11,811 ft. Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath
The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp.
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Tarn
Elevation (ft.): 14,400 ft. -14,160 ft.
Distance: 2 km
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Alpine
We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest and enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit da
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft.), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation (ft.): 19,341 ft. to 12,250 ft.
Distance: 16 km Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Heath
On our last day of the Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Arusha.
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: RainForest
What should I pack for my Kilimanjaro adventure?
Inside Your daypack on Kilimanjaro, you will have waterproof gear, a sun hut, extra warm clothing, water, snacks, Packed lunch, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug repellent, and a camera. When you’re on the mountain, most of your gear will be packed in your large duffel bag, which our porters will carry. For more information on what to park to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai route and other routes kindly check our Kilimanjaro guide
Is it safe climbing Kilimanjaro Rongai route?
Yes, technically speaking, climbing Kilimanjaro Rongai route is relatively safe compared to other mountains of similar altitude and the risks are low compared to other mountains. However, this is not to say that it is easy to reach the summit or that there are no risks involved.
How fit would I have to be to climb mount Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro doesn’t need an athlete or someone who is so much into exercise. Only a few training sessions prepare your lungs for low oxygen levels. To better equip our climbers, at Northern lagoon Travel, we always do offer a fitness assessment check.
Are the guides trained in first aid and altitude sickness?
Kilimanjaro guides are trained in acute mountain sickness (AMS) and basic mountain first aid. However, they are not doctors or paramedics, climbers are however responsible for bringing their own first aid kits and medical supplies.
Is my health monitored throughout the treks?
We carry full medical supplies that could possibly be required from, oxygen tanks to resuscitation equipment. Everyone is assessed daily, both morning and evening for; respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and O2 saturation levels. We also provide full medical support with qualified doctors if needed at additional costs per group.
Should I do a scheduled group trek or a private trek?
A Kilimanjaro open group tour is one in which anyone can join the climb, however, tend to be cheaper compared to private tours and they have a set schedule.
We run our own scheduled group trek departure dates throughout ‘all’ seasons, and also “tailor-made” private treks where you can choose your specific dates.
Which Kilimanjaro route is the best?
The best route to climb Kilimanjaro is the Machame route and Lemosho route over 7 or 8 days – excellent acclimatization and an easier summit night make these winners a long way. The Lemosho route, summit success rate? Due to its longer length profile, summit success rates on the Lemosho route are one of the highest on the mountain. Whilst there are no official statistics, the average success rate across all operators is 90% for the 8-day trek and an 85% success rate for the 7-day trek. Check out our blog post on the Kilimanjaro hiking routes
Northern Lagoon are professionals!