7 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE CLIMBING
(+ 2 days in a hotel)
$1,800/per person
- 7 Days / 6 Night
- Max People: 20
- Moshi - Tanzania
Overview
Embark on the 7 Days Rongai Route, a unique path to Kilimanjaro’s summit that starts from the northern side near the Kenyan border. This less crowded route offers breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and a higher success rate for reaching the summit. You’ll trek through lush rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, experiencing the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Kilimanjaro. Each day brings new vistas and challenges, making the journey to Uhuru Peak an unforgettable adventure.
The Rongai Route is perfect for those seeking a quieter climb with excellent acclimatization opportunities. You’ll camp under the stars, enjoy spectacular views, and be guided by experienced professionals ensuring your safety and comfort. The final ascent begins at midnight, reaching the summit at sunrise for a truly magical experience. This 7-day trek combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural encounters, offering an exceptional way to conquer Africa’s highest peak.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 01 : Arrival and Preparation
Upon your arrival in Kilimanjaro International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. You’ll have a briefing session with your guide, where you’ll receive all necessary information and gear for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
After breakfast, you will drive to the Rongai Gate (approximately 3-4 hours, covering about 120 kilometers) where you will complete registration formalities. The trek begins from the gate, passing through farmland and pine forest. You will reach Simba Camp (2,671 meters) after about 3-4 hours of hiking.
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Montane forest
At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy, so gaiters and trekking poles are useful. Shorts and t-shirts should be fine, but keep your rain gear and warmer clothes nearby.
Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave
You will continue your trek from Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450 meters). This section offers good views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
From 3000m altitude, it will start to get cold, so it is important to cover up well to conserve energy. Wearing long underwear, hiking pants, liner gloves, and a proper jacket will keep you warm until summit day. Always keep your raingear in your day bag. Be prepared for cold nights as temperatures drop below freezing at this altitude.
Day 4: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
From Second Cave, you will trek to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters). The hike is relatively short but steep, crossing the moorland.
- Distance: 6 km
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours
- Habitat: Moorland
From 3000m altitude, it will start to get cold, so it is important to cover up well to conserve energy. Wearing long underwear, hiking pants, liner gloves, and a proper jacket will keep you warm until summit day. Always keep your raingear in your day bag. Be prepared for cold nights as temperatures drop below freezing at this altitude.
Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
You will hike from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 meters), situated in a stunning location beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The afternoon is free to rest or explore the surrounding area to aid acclimatization.
- Distance: 7 km
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
From 3000m altitude, it will start to get cold, so it is important to cover up well to conserve energy. Wearing long underwear, hiking pants, liner gloves, and a proper jacket will keep you warm until summit day. Always keep your raingear in your day bag. Be prepared for cold nights as temperatures drop below freezing at this altitude.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
The trek continues across the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters). This stage is long and tiring, but the landscape is awe-inspiring.
- Distance: 8 km
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours
- Habitat: Alpine desert
At 4000m altitude, it starts to get cold, so it's crucial to cover up well to conserve energy. Long underwear, hiking pants, liner gloves, and a proper jacket will keep you warm until the summit day. Always keep your raingear in your day bag for unexpected weather. Be prepared for a cold night, as temperatures drop below freezing at this altitude.
Day 7: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
You will start the final ascent to the summit at midnight. This is the most demanding part of the trek, with a steep and challenging climb up to Gilman's Point (5,685 meters) on the crater rim. From Gilman's Point, you will continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), the highest point in Africa. After enjoying the summit, you will descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters).
- Distance: 22 km
- Hiking time: 10-15 hours
- Habitat: Arctic
On the night of the ascent to the summit, temperatures can vary from -10 to -20 degrees, so you need to be well covered to walk for 5 hours in the cold and darkness. It is advisable to wear between 5 and 6 layers, including a thermal base layer, insulating layers, and a heavy down jacket. Ski trousers and gaiters will keep your legs warm and dry. Additionally, wear a warm hat, a balaclava, and thick gloves to protect against the biting cold. A head torch is essential for the night climb, ensuring you can see the path ahead.
Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
On your final day, you will descend from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860 meters). At the gate, you will receive your summit certificates before being transferred back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest at your hotel.
- Distance: 20 km
- Hiking time: 5-7 hours
- Habitat: Rainforest
You'll start the day in the cold, so it's important to dress in multiple layers to stay warm. As you descend, the temperature will rise, allowing you to remove layers as needed. Begin with thermal base layers, followed by insulating layers like a fleece or down jacket, and finish with a windproof outer layer. This way, you can adjust your clothing throughout the day to stay comfortable as the temperature changes.
Our Package Includes
- Airport Transfers (To And From Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Pre-Climb Briefing And Orientation
- Transportation To And From The Kilimanjaro Trailhead
- Park Fees And Permits
- Experienced Guides And Porters
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) During The Climb
- Clean Drinking Water During The Trek
- Accommodation (Tents Or Huts) During The Trek
- Camping Equipment (Tents, Sleeping Bags, Sleeping Mats, Etc.)
- Safety Equipment (Like Oxygen Tanks, First Aid Kits, Etc.)
- National Park Rescue Fees
- Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate
Not Included
- International Flights: Airfare To And From Tanzania.
- Travel Insurance (Medical, Evacuation, Trip Cancellation, Etc.)
- Personal Gear (Such As Hiking Boots, Clothing, Backpacks, Etc.)
- Tips For Guides, Porters, And Other Staff
- Additional Accommodation And Meals Before Or After The Climb
- Alcoholic Beverages And Other Personal Expenses
- Any Optional Activities Or Excursions Not Included In The Itinerary
PRICE FOR 7 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE CLIMBING
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
1 Person | 2 – 4 People | 5 – 6 People | 7 – 9 People | 10 & Above |
---|---|---|---|---|
$1900 USD | $1800 USD | $1750 USD | $1700 USD | $1650 USD |
REQUEST A QUOTE
Just send us a message through the below form and let us know how we can plan your once in a lifetime experience. We always reply on time, in a few hours, if not minutes.
Customer Reviews of Our Services
We are proud to share that Bush Lion Tours has been rated 5/5 by our customers. This honor reflects our commitment to ensuring every safari is fully satisfying. We always go the extra mile to meet our clients’ needs and provide exceptional service.
VerifiedAyame F2024-08-11Amazing Food and Daily Health Checks Our trek with Bush Lion Tours was superb. The food was always fresh and energizing, and Innocent and Shafii took great care of us with daily health check-ups. Their expert guidance and focus on our well-being made the climb both enjoyable and safe.VerifiedHikaru A2024-08-10They truly made the difference! I had an amazing experience with Bush Lion Tours on Kilimanjaro. The gear provided was of excellent quality and suited perfectly for the climb. Innocent and Shafii were incredible guides—extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to ensuring we had the best experience possible.VerifiedGenevieve B2024-08-08Lasting Memories Our safari with Bush Lion Tours will be a lasting memory in our lives. Everything was unique, from the wildlife to the personal service. We are very grateful for this exceptional experience and highly recommend it!VerifiedIstván F2024-08-07Brilliant Safari & Trek Our experience with Bush Lion Tours was brilliant! The 5-day safari was full of excitement, with expert guides and well-organized logistics. The 7-day Machame Route trek was made enjoyable thanks to the high-quality equipment provided. Bush Lion Tours truly knows how to deliver an exceptional adventure. Many thanks for making our trip so memorable!VerifiedDalibor D2024-08-06Smooth and Enjoyable Journey Our 5-day Tanzania safari and 7-day Machame Route trek with Bush Lion Tours were smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. The safari experience was enhanced by our experienced guide, and the Machame trek was made much more comfortable thanks to the high-quality gear. Bush Lion Tours truly delivered on all fronts, and we couldn’t be happier with their service.VerifiedWillem J2024-08-05A Journey Beyond Words Our Kilimanjaro climb and safari with Bush Lion Tours was a journey beyond words. The team’s exceptional planning and genuine care for our experience made every moment memorable. The breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters were made even more special by their excellent service.VerifiedCas P2024-08-03Beyond Expectations Bush Lion Tours went above and beyond during our eight-day Kilimanjaro climb and two-day safari. Their dedication to providing an exceptional experience was clear from the very beginning. The combination of stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife made this trip truly extraordinary.VerifiedIsaak J2024-08-02Bush Lion Tours – A Top Choice for Kilimanjaro Treks Our Kilimanjaro trek on the Lemosho route with Bush Lion Tours was incredible. The service was excellent, the camping gear was of high quality, and the food was both hearty and delicious. The team was exceptionally supportive and friendly, helping us every step of the way. Jane from Bush Lion Tours played a key role in making this adventure an unforgettable experience.VerifiedDion H2024-08-01Stunning Scenery, Great Guide Our Londorosi route day trip with Shafii was fantastic. We didn’t summit, but the trek was filled with stunning views and enjoyable hiking. Shafii’s guidance made the day smooth and memorable. If you're short on time but still want to experience Kilimanjaro’s beauty, this day trip is perfect.VerifiedGisela H2024-07-31Top-Quality Safari with Bush Lion Tours! We had an amazing 5-day camping safari in Tanzania. The trip was well-organized, and our guide’s extensive wildlife knowledge was impressive. Many thanks to Bush Lion Tours for a top-notch adventure!Tripadvisor rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 51 reviews