7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing rongai route

7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing rongai route

The Rongai route ascents Kilimanjaro from the northeastern side of the mountain, along with the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This route retains a sense of unspoiled wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north. Experienced guides consider the Rongai route to be both easier and more scenic than the Marangu Trail. Summit attempts begin in the pre-dawn hours, with climbers usually reaching Gillman’s Point at sunrise. For those who feel strong enough, an approximately three hour round trip hike will take you from Gillman’s Point to Uhuru Peak.

Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha

After arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, our driver will take you to the Tulia hotel and Spa where the rest of the day is at leisure. Bed and Breakfast included

Day 1: Rongai Gate (1950m) – 1st Caves Camp (2600m)

Altitude; ↑650m

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Register at the Marangu park gate with a transfer about 2 hours to the Rongai trail head. The trail is not at all steep but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country.

Day 2: 1st Cave (2600m) – Kikelewa Cave (3600m)

Altitude; ↑1000m

Hiking Time: 3-7 hours

Just early in the morning after a nice breakfast the trail continues up towards Kibo, passing Second Cave (3450m) and reaching Kikelewa Caveat about 3600 meters. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain!. Overnight at 3rd Cave camp (Kikelewa Caves). Bed, dinner and breakfast includes

Day 3: Kikelewa Cave (3600) – Mawenzi Tarn camp (4330m)

Altitude; ↑730M

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. Lunch includes.

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to – Mawenzi Ridge – Mawenzi Tarn

This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent the day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. Dinner includes

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m) – Kibo hut (4700m)

Altitude; ↑370M

Hiking Time: 5-6 h

Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. Overnight at Kibo Camp Dinner includes

Day 6: Kibo Hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo hut (3720m)

Altitude; ↑1195m, ↓2175m

Hiking Time: 10-14 h

You will rise around 23h30, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. Breakfast includes.

Day 7: Horombo hut (3720m) – Marangu Gate (1980m)

Altitude; ↓1740m

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

After breakfast you continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate. It is strongly recommended not to pay your porters any tips until you and all your gear have reached the gate safely.  This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates.

Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport or alternatively you can extend your trip and go on safari.