8 Days Rongai Route
T K Rongai Route, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
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Duration
5 Days
Tour Type
Climbing & Trekking
Group Size
10 persons
Location
Kilimanjaro
Overview
The 8 Days Rongai Route offers a unique and quieter way to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching Africa’s highest peak from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. Known for its gradual ascent, stunning wilderness scenery, and fewer crowds, this route is ideal for climbers seeking a more peaceful trekking experience with excellent acclimatization.
Unlike the busier southern trails, Rongai showcases untouched alpine landscapes and spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones. The descent via the Marangu Route allows trekkers to experience two different sides of the mountain in one journey.
This carefully paced 8-day itinerary increases summit success rates by allowing proper altitude adaptation, supported by experienced mountain guides, professional crews, and comfortable camping arrangements throughout the climb.
Included/Excluded
All park fees
Transfer to/from Kilimanjaro National Park
Large portions of fresh, healthy nutritious food
Overnight stays in Mountain Hardware tents
Professional, experienced, mountain guides
Rescue fees
All meals while on the Mountain
Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
Clean, purified drinking water
Fair and ethical treatment of porters
Airport transfers
International flights to and from Tanzania
Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Tipping for porters & guides
Alcoholic & soft drinks
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Jaja African Safari representative and transferred to your hotel. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and a relaxing environment to prepare for your adventure.
In the evening, meet your mountain guides for a detailed briefing, equipment check, and final preparations for the trek.
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)
Note: Hotel check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Day 2: Nalemuru Gate (1,990m) to Simba Camp (2,625m)
Day 2: Nalemuru Gate (1,990m) to Simba Camp (2,625m)
Drive to Nalemuru Gate, the starting point of the Rongai Route. After registration, begin trekking through forest trails where wildlife sightings are sometimes possible. The path gradually climbs toward open moorland landscapes.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Montane forest to moorland
Overnight: Simba Camp
Day 3: Simba Camp to Kikilewa Camp (3,630m)
Day 3: Simba Camp to Kikilewa Camp (3,630m)
The trail continues across wide alpine landscapes with spectacular views of the Kenyan plains. The climb becomes steeper as you approach Kikilewa Camp, located in a sheltered valley near Mawenzi.
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Overnight: Kikilewa Camp
Day 4: Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
Day 4: Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
A shorter but steeper hike brings you to Mawenzi Tarn, dramatically located beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is reserved for acclimatization walks and rest, helping your body adjust to higher altitude.
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to School Hut Camp (4,750m)
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to School Hut Camp (4,750m)
Today’s trek crosses the lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The landscape becomes stark and dramatic as you approach School Hut, your base camp before the summit attempt.
Early dinner and rest are essential as you prepare for the midnight ascent.
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Overnight: School Hut Camp
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Begin your summit attempt around midnight. Slowly ascend past Gilman’s Point and Stella Point to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Witness an unforgettable sunrise above the clouds before beginning the descent via the Marangu Route.
Continue down to Horombo Hut for rest after this long but rewarding day.
Hiking Time: 10–14 hours
Habitat: Arctic summit zone to moorland
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Hotel
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Hotel
Descend through lush rainforest trails to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. Transfer back to the hotel for a well-deserved shower and celebration.
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha/Moshi
Day 8: Departure
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight or continue with a safari or Zanzibar extension.
Travel Styles
Nature & Adventure
FAQs
Why choose the Rongai Route?
It is quieter than other Kilimanjaro routes, offers gradual elevation gain, and provides beautiful views of the mountain’s northern side and Mawenzi Peak.
. Is this route good for acclimatization?
Yes. The 8-day itinerary is designed to increase summit success rates by allowing better altitude adjustment.
Where does the climb start and end?
The trek starts at Nalemuru Gate on the northern side and descends via Marangu Gate on the southeast side of Kilimanjaro.
What accommodation is used during the climb?
Mountain tents are used throughout the trek, with a night at Horombo Hut during descent.
Do I need prior climbing experience?
No technical climbing skills are required, but good physical fitness and preparation are important.
What is included in the support team?
Professional mountain guides, porters, cooks, camping equipment, and safety monitoring are typically provided.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months are January–March and June–October, offering clearer skies and more stable weather.
Can this climb be combined with a safari or Zanzibar trip?
Yes. Many travelers add a Serengeti safari or Zanzibar beach holiday after the climb.
Tour Location
T K Rongai Route, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
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