KILIMANJARO - RONGAI ROUTE
PAMOJA SAFARIS
TRIP ITINERARY OVERVIEW
The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. It’s considered one of the easier paths due to its gradual slopes, and it is less crowded compared to the Marangu and Machame routes. The Rongai route is also known for its scenic diversity and the possibility to see wildlife during the initial days of the trek.
RONGAI ROUTE
DAY 01
ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA
Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) where you’ll be met by a Pamoja Safaris guide and taken to your lodge in Arusha.
Lodging: Serena Arusha Lodge & Spa, Arusha or similar
DAY 02
PREPARATION DAY
After breakfast at your lodge in Arusha, your guide will join you in making preparations for the climb, including talking over the plans for the days ahead, a gear check, and grabbing any rental equipment necessary. Dinner will be at your lodge that evening.
Lodging: Serena Arusha Lodge & Spa, Arusha or similar
DAY 03
Nalemoru Gate to Simba Camp
The trek starts at Nalemoru Gate after completing park formalities. The path winds through maize and potato fields before entering the pine forest, where you might see wildlife such as Colobus monkeys. The first campsite, Simba Camp, offers early views of the Kibo peak.
Distance: 8 km/5 mi
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
DAY 04
Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Leaving Simba Camp, the trail continues up towards Kibo, entering the heather and moorland zone. This section provides expansive views of the Kenyan plains. The camp for the night is Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley near Kikelewa Caves.
Distance: 11 km/6.8 mi
Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
DAY 05
Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
A short, steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded with superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. Mawenzi Tarn camp is situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi, providing a stunning setting for acclimatization and exploring the surrounding area.
Distance: 6 km/3.7 mi
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
DAY 06
Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
The trek crosses the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo. This barren and starkly beautiful landscape leads to Kibo Hut, which is situated at the base of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final summit bid.
Distance: 9 km/5.6 mi
Trekking Time: 4-5 hours
DAY 07
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
The summit bid starts around midnight, with the aim to reach Gillman’s Point on the crater rim for sunrise. The final push to Uhuru Peak is along the crater rim. After reaching the summit, descend to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest. This long and demanding day requires mental and physical stamina.
Distance: 6 km/3.7 mi ascent + 16 km descent/10 mi
Trekking Time: 6-8 hours ascent + 4-6 hours descent
DAY 08
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
The final descent takes you through moorland to Mandara Hut, where a hot lunch is served. Continue through lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu. Successful climbers will receive their summit certificates at the gate. From here, a vehicle will take you back to your hotel.
Distance: 20 km/12.5 mi
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
DAY 09
DEPARTURE
Have breakfast at the hotel and relax until your flight back. You’ll be transferred by the hotel to the airport (15 minutes drive) approximately 2.5 hours before your flight is scheduled to depart.
Departure
EQUIPMENT & SUPPORT
Premium Tents
High End Sleeping Pads & Bags
Experienced Guides
Price includes
$ 5900+
- start price (depending on group size & season)
- All domestic transport
- Fees & Taxes
- All meals (as specified per day)
- Base gratuity for all staff
Price excludes
-
a 30% deposit is required to book
- International Travel
- Private room (available for extra charge)
- International Airfare and Visa
Ready to plan your trip?
Get in contact and one of our team members will get back to you to start planning the details of your trip.OUR GUIDES RECOMMEND THESE TRIPS FOR YOU
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