The Rongai Route in summary
The Rongai Route is a lesser-known but increasingly popular trail for climbers seeking to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, distinguished by its approach from the northern side near the Kenyan border. Unlike other routes, it offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. The trek traverses diverse landscapes, starting from lush rainforests and transitioning to alpine deserts before reaching the arctic conditions near the summit. With options for 6 to 8-day itineraries, the Rongai Route is considered moderately difficult and boasts relatively high success rates for summiting. It is particularly appealing for climbers due to its gradual ascent and stunning natural beauty, providing ample opportunities for acclimatization along the way.
Safari Overview
In the northern region, the base of Kilimanjaro is covered in a dense blanket of rusty gold savannah. The spectacular landscapes of the Masaai land feature elephants, monkeys, and gleaming silhouettes of contrasting black buffalo. Colorful flocks of East Africa’s enticing birdlife soar through the blue skies.
The Rongai Route offers a tranquil journey through many different climate zones. The towering peak of the mountain is drenched in brilliant light, with spikes of thin emerald piercing the snow in distinctive directions. The enchanted cloud forest beckons with its pulsing heart, steeped in plushness and opulence.
Coils of vaporous mist weave through fractured canopies, creating a magical atmosphere. The long drive to the Rongai Route gate offers beautiful sights, and the 6-day Rongai Route is considered moderately difficult. During the wet season, this route is favored due to the lower precipitation, which provides more enjoyable, drier conditions.
Day 1 | Rongai Gate / Nalemoru (1950m) to Simba Camp (2650m) (First Cave Camp) WalkingTime: 3-4hrs Distance: 6.5km Altitude Gain: 700m
In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel and drive to the Marangu Gate, approximately 1.8 km away. After completing the necessary park registration, we will continue to the Nalemoru Gate, just under 2 km from there. At the gate, you will have the chance to meet your crew, and a comforting hot lunch will be served.
We will then embark on the Rongai Route, starting with a great journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. The trek on the Rongai Route begins with a winding path that crosses a maize field. As we enter the dense forest, the path becomes misty and moist. The trees above are home to striking blue monkeys, contrasting black and white colobus monkeys, and adorable bush babies.
The trek lasts three to four hours on the Rongai Route, and we will spend the night at Simba Camp, located at 2,650 meters. Comprehensive camping facilities are provided to ensure a comfortable stay.
Day 2 | Simba Camp (2650m) to Kikelewa Caves (3600m) (Third Caves Camp) Walking Time: 6-7hrs Distance: 9km Altitude Gain: 950m
In the morning, the journey along the Rongai Route towards Kibo will resume. At the second ancient cave, an appetizing hot lunch will be served. After lunch, we will trek through a brief section of the barren dunes of the moorland and continue amid the heather vegetation zone, which is studded with ethereal, enormous lobelias.
Along the Rongai Route, there is a high possibility of viewing the breathtaking display of the Kibo peak. You might also spot jackals and the occasional buffalo; there’s no need to panic as your guide will accompany you at all times. Once we reach the Kikelewa Caves camp (3,600 m), you can relax for the remaining hours of the day.
Day 3 | Kikelewa Caves (3600m) to Mawenzi Tarn (4330m) Walking Time: 3-4hrs Distance: 6km Altitude Gain: 370m
Breakfast will be served at the campsite. Our day on the Rongai Route begins with a short, inclined pasture that leads to an area of wilderness. A low desert environment will replace the limited vegetation as we progress.
We will arrive at the Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330 m) on the Rongai Route, where a delectable hot lunch will be served. There may be opportunities for small excursions for acclimatization, but you are likely to spend the rest of the day lounging at the campsite.
Day 4 | : Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4700m) Walking Time: 4-5hrs Distance: 9km Altitude Gain: 370m
Note that the Rongai Route progressively becomes steeper and stonier as we advance further away from the Mawenzi Tarn Hut. We will travel up a desolate site that leads to ‘The Saddle’ – an extensive lunar lava stone landscape that stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo.
The Rongai Route journey is complemented by the marvelous views of the towering upper regions of Kilimanjaro. Our trek on the Rongai Route will come to an end when we reach the Kibo Huts (4,703 m), and a steaming hot meal will be served in the afternoon.
You can relax for the remainder of the day. We recommend that you try to get to bed early so you are revitalized for the climb to the summit at midnight.
Day 5 | Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Horombo Hut (3700m) Walking Time: 6-8hrs ascent, 5-6hrs descent Distance: 5km ascent, 15km descent Altitude Gain: 1195m, Altitude Loss: 2195m
Our voyage on the Rongai Route to the summit begins at midnight, marking the longest and most laborious day of the trek. The trail starts with a long, steep slope until we reach the Hans Meyer Cave. From there, the path narrows into a twisting, single-file lane.
To reach Gillman’s Point (5,685 m) on the Rongai Route, you will navigate a brief, rocky terrain that requires some climbing. This is the most challenging part of the ascent. Once at Gillman’s Point, you’ll know Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) is just a two-hour hike away.
Upon reaching Uhuru Peak and witnessing the first peach-hued rays of light against the ice-laden fields of Mawenzi Peaks, you will fully appreciate the magnitude of your achievement. We won’t linger at Uhuru Peak as we need to start our descent to the Kibo Hut for a short, desirable break.
We will then proceed on the Rongai Route to the Horombo Huts, where you will feel a great sense of relief and joy at the sight of your sleeping bag.
Day 6 | : Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1800m) Walking Time: 5-6hrs Distance: 20km Altitude Gain: 1195m Altitude Loss: 1900m
After breakfast, we will descend along the Rongai Route to the Marangu Gate. On our journey, we will pass by the Mandara Hut and travel through the lush rainforest once more.
Upon reaching the Marangu Gate, you will receive a certificate as proof of completing the 6-day Rongai Route. After celebrating with your porters, we will transport you back to the hotel. There, a piping hot shower, a soft mattress, and fresh clothes will be waiting for you. You might even enjoy trying one or two Kilimanjaro beers!
We will then transfer you to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight back home. If you’ve chosen to go on a safari, that’s another adventure we’ll be happy to arrange for you!
6 Days Rongai Route Trekking
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
5 Pax
$ 2,163
$ 1,840
$ 1,662
$ 1,556
$ 1,487
All payments are in USD only ( the prices quoted are per person).
6 Days Rongai Route Trekking
1 Pax
2 Pax
3 Pax
4 Pax
5 Pax
$ 2,163
$ 1,840
$ 1,662
$ 1,556
$ 1,487
Embark on an exhilarating adventure with our seasoned guides as they reveal the natural wonders of Mount Meru. Let them lead you to experience the breathtaking landscapes and encounter the unique beauty of this iconic mountain. A warm invitation beckons you to explore the captivating heights of Mount Meru!
Included in Cost
- All applicable park entry fees as per the program.
- Government taxes VAT & local levies.
- Service of highly experienced English-speaking guide(s); porters & cook
- Camping equipment like mountain tent, mattress, chairs, etc. (Except for Marangu Route)
- Transport from the hotel to the park gate, as well as from the park gate to the hotel.
- Meals on Full board (Unless listed as upgrade) on trek as indicated on the program
- Unlimited drinking water (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Accommodation Type: Camping or hut in Marangu Route
- Rescue fees, Emergency oxygen, Pulse oximeter, and First aid kit
- Guides and porters' accommodations, meals and their entry fees on the mountain
- Fair wages to guides and porters as approved by Kilimanjaro National Park Authority
Not Included in Cost
- International flights (From/to home) and domestic Flight
- 2-night accommodation in Arusha Before and after trek
- Pick up and drop off at the airport
- Tips (Tipping guideline Guide $10-$20pp per day, Cooker & Porters $5-$10pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, Visa entry fees upon arrival at the airport or online $50-$100 per person per entry depending on nationality, etc.)
- Any extra orders at meals are not included. Set menu meals are part of the package.
- Government-imposed increase of taxes or park fees
- Medical/luggage Insurance.
- Portable flush toilet
- Sleeping bag
Book a Memorable African Adventure
There’s a reason that more than 70% of Jairos Adventure travelers each year are repeat guests or were referred by a past Jairos traveler.
Professionalism
The most experienced and customer-focused guides & staff in the industry
Tailor-made Experiences
We believe in personal Experience, For each traveler we customize the trip to his/her exclusive needs
Responsible Travel
Our commitment to the environment & local communities is unmatched
Top Notch Accommodations
We have careful selected the Hotels, Lodges and Camps we use, We believe in a good rest during an adventure
Our Addon
Hotels Addons
We offer the following hotel options
Please note that if any hotel is booked out or is otherwise unavailable, we will book you in an alternate equivalent hotel.
Accommodation based on half body per person
Kili Seasons Hotel
- A single room is available for USD 165 per night.
- For those seeking more space, a double room costs USD 165 per night.
- If you need accommodations for three, a triple room is priced at USD 165 per night.
Kibo Palace Hotel
- Guests can enjoy a single room for USD 195 per night.
- A double room at this hotel is offered for USD 124 per night.
- The triple room option also comes at a rate of USD 91 per night.
Forest Hill Hotel
- A single room here is priced at USD 150 per night.
- For couples or friends, a double room is available for USD 109 per night.
- Those requiring more beds can opt for the triple room at USD 90 per night.
If you are booking a hotel directly, please check with us before booking, to make sure we can meet you and pick you up from the hotel.
Climbing Gear
We offer the following add-ons to your gear (all equipment are subject to availability):
Private Toilet – USD 150
Private Tent – USD 7 per day
Kailas X3 III Alpine Tent with Vestibule – USD 12 per day (Click here for specifications)
Thicker sleeping mattress – USD 10 per mattress
Thermarest – USD 17 per thermarest
Our packages by default include a foam sleeping mattress of 2-inch thickness, if you want a thicker alternative you can opt for a 4-inch foam mattress with above mentioned extra cost.
Transfers
We offer the following transfer options
Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Moshi / Arusha (one way) – USD 70 per vehicle
Moshi / Arusha to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) (one way) – USD 70 per vehicle
Arusha to Moshi (one way) – USD 100 per vehicle
Moshi to Arusha (one way) – USD 100 per vehicle
African Best Safari
An African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that immerses you in the breathtaking natural beauty and exceptional animals of the continent. An African safari provides a variety of environments that are home to the “Big Five”—lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceroses, and buffaloes—aside from the famous savannas of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater Observing the Great Migration, a remarkable event showcasing the complex balance and sheer strength of nature involves millions of zebras and wildebeests crossing the plains. You may explore these enormous wildernesses securely and intimately while staying in opulent tented camps or well-equipped hotels with the assistance of knowledgeable guides. Whether it’s following gorillas in Uganda‘s deep jungles, an African safari ensures lifelong memories and incredible experiences.
Choose from the List of Our Compiled List of Travel and Customize to your Preferences
