Itinerary
Overview
Remote & Scenic Climb to Africa’s Summit
The Rongai Route is one of the least crowded and most scenic routes to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting on the northern side, near the Kenyan border, it offers trekkers a quieter experience with stunning views, making it a great choice for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Unlike the busier southern routes, Rongai allows for a unique perspective on Kilimanjaro, as you approach the mountain from the remote north, then descend via the Marangu Route, giving you varied viewpoints.
This 6-day trek is moderately challenging, with excellent opportunities for acclimatization and a high success rate for reaching the summit. If you’re looking for a more tranquil yet equally rewarding climb, the Rongai Route is ideal.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Quiet and Scenic: Less crowded than other routes, offering solitude and panoramic vistas.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot wildlife like antelope and elephants in the forest zones.
- Gentle Gradients: Gradual ascent with easier trails compared to other routes.
- Tent Camping: Enjoy the full wilderness experience, sleeping in tents set up by porters.
- Summit Success: High success rate with acclimatization opportunities.
- Varied Descent: Return via the Marangu Route, giving you two distinct views of Kilimanjaro.
- Hiking & Trekking: Daily guided hikes through diverse ecosystems of Kilimanjaro
- Wildlife Viewing: Possibility to encounter animals in the montane forests
- Photography: Stunning photo opportunities of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, volcanic formations, and diverse landscapes
- Summit Attempt: Overnight ascent to the Uhuru Peak for a breathtaking sunrise
- Cultural Experience: Interact with local guides and porters, learn about Tanzanian culture and nature
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 0: Arrival in Tanzania
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Take time to rest and prepare for your trek. A briefing with your mountain guide will be held in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
Day 1: Arusha/Moshi to Nale Muru – Simba Camp
After breakfast, transfer to Nale Muru village, where the trek begins. Walk through maize fields, then climb steadily through the cool pine forests. As the forest thins, reach Simba Camp near the "First Cave," offering stunning views of the Kenyan plains.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
The hike continues with a steady ascent through moorland. Enjoy superb views of Kibo Peak and the Eastern Ice Fields as you trek toward Second Cave Camp, a perfect acclimatization stop.
Elevation: 2,750m to 3,450m (9,020ft to 11,320ft)
Day 3: Second Cave to Third Cave
Today, you’ll continue your climb with a steady ascent to Third Cave Camp. The semi-desert landscape gives you striking views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers, making this a scenic and rewarding trek.
Day 4: Third Cave to Kibo Huts
Hike to Kibo Huts at the base of Kilimanjaro’s crater wall, where you will meet up with the Marangu Route. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for your summit attempt. The atmosphere here is stark and otherworldly, as you cross Kilimanjaro’s famous saddle.
Day 5: Summit Day! Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Huts
Begin your summit attempt at midnight, trekking up steep scree toward Gilman’s Point at the crater rim. From there, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit, descend to Kibo Huts for a break, then continue down to Horombo Huts for your final night on the mountain.
Day 6: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi/Arusha
Trek down through the moorland and rainforest zones, passing through Mandara Huts on your way to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you will receive your summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest.
Optional Add-On: Extend your adventure with a safari to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or a relaxing beach trip to Zanzibar.
Accordion Title
What's Included?
What's Excluded?
Rates
Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently
Insider Insight
We know because we've been there.
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure on this bucket list African safari, featuring breathtaking highlights and serene sanctuaries.
Hamisi Mnaro
Africa Safari Specialist
