7 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE CLIMBING
(+ 2 days in a hotel)

$1,800/per person

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.

7 days Lemosho Route

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

Not Included

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.

Translate »
en_US
Scroll to Top

Kilimanjaro Packing List

Essentials

Critical items needed for high-altitude climbing.

Clothes

Adaptive and thermal clothing for varying altitudes.

Toiletries

Essential personal care items for high-altitude conditions.

Technology

Electronic devices and accessories.