Mount Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Rongai Route

Group Size: Based on Minimum of 2 passengers
Departs: Daily Private Departure
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The Rongai Route is one of the less crowded and more scenic routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its gradual ascent and remote wilderness experience, the Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more secluded climb while still enjoying breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. Below is a detailed overview of the Rongai Route, including its key features, itinerary options, and tips for a successful climb.

Key Features of the Rongai Route

Why Choose the Rongai Route?

1. Less Crowded: The Rongai Route is one of the quieter routes, offering a more serene and remote experience.

2. Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of the northern slopes, Mawenzi Peak, and the Kenyan plains.

3. Gradual Ascent: The route has a gentle slope, making it suitable for beginners and those seeking a less strenuous climb.

4. Wildlife Opportunities: The northern approach increases the chances of spotting wildlife, such as antelope and monkeys.

Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Success Rates

The Rongai Route has a high success rate, particularly for the 7-day itinerary, due to its gradual ascent and longer duration, which allows for better acclimatization.

• 7-day itinerary: 80% to 95% success rate. The longer duration allows for better acclimatization, which significantly increases the chances of reaching the summit.

• 6-day itinerary: 60% to 70% success rate. The shorter duration provides less time for acclimatization, making it more challenging.

Recommendation

• Opt for the 7-day itinerary to maximize acclimatization and increase your chances of reaching the summit.

• Ensure proper physical preparation and invest in quality gear to enhance your experience.

Best Season for the Rongai Route

The Rongai Route is best climbed during the dry seasons when the weather is most favorable for trekking. The two main dry seasons are:

1. January to mid-March: Warm and dry, with clear skies and excellent visibility.

2. June to October: Cooler and dry, with less rainfall and stable weather conditions.

Why Dry Seasons?

• Less rainfall means clearer paths and better trekking conditions.

• Lower chances of encountering slippery or muddy trails.

• Clearer views of the surrounding landscapes and summit.

Note: Weather on Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for sudden changes, including rain, wind, and cold temperatures.

6 Days vs. 7 Days rongai Route: A Comparison

When deciding between a 6-day and 7-day itinerary, the key differences lie in acclimatization, cost, and overall experience. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which option suits you best:

6-Day Rongai Route

• Duration: 6 days (5 nights on the mountain)

• Ascent Profile: Faster ascent with fewer acclimatization days.

• Difficulty: More challenging due to less time for acclimatization.

• Success Rate: Lower summit success rates compared to the 7-day option, as the body has less time to adjust to the altitude.

• Cost: Generally cheaper due to fewer days on the mountain (lower park fees, guide fees, and food costs).

• Best For: Experienced hikers or those with prior high-altitude trekking experience who are confident in their ability to acclimatize quickly.

7-Day Rongai Route

• Duration: 7 days (6 nights on the mountain)

• Ascent Profile: Slower ascent with an extra acclimatization day, often including a hike to Mawenzi Tarn or an additional night at a higher altitude.

• Difficulty: Easier due to better acclimatization opportunities.

• Success Rate: Higher summit success rates because the body has more time to adjust to the altitude.

• Cost: Slightly more expensive due to the additional day (higher park fees, guide fees, and food costs).

• Best For: First-time trekkers, those with limited high-altitude experience, or anyone prioritizing safety and summit success.

Choose the 6-Day Route if:

• • You have prior high-altitude trekking experience.

  • You are confident in your physical fitness and ability to acclimatize quickly.

  • You are on a tighter budget or have limited time.

Choose the 7-Day Route if:

• • You are a first-time trekker or have limited high-altitude experience.

  • You want to maximize your chances of summiting successfully.

  • You prefer a more relaxed pace and want to enjoy the journey.

7-Day Rongai Route Itinerary Overview

The 7-Day Rongai Route is a popular and less crowded option for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a unique wilderness experience, stunning scenery, and a high success rate due to its gradual ascent and longer duration. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 9-day climbing Kilimanjaro – Rongai Route in 7 days itinerary, including daily activities, park fees, pricing, and key considerations.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport

• Activity: Transfer to the base hotel.

• Details:

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your base hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

  • Attend a briefing with your guide to discuss the climb, safety measures, and answer any questions.

  • Tip: Use this time to double-check your gear and ensure you have all necessary equipment for the climb.

Day 2: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

• Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,600m (8,530ft).

• Distance: 8km (5 miles).

• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours.

• Habitat: Rainforest.

• Details:

  • After breakfast, drive to Rongai Gate for registration and meet your guides and porters.

  • Begin the trek through lush rainforest, arriving at Simba Camp for overnight stay.

  • Tip: Stay hydrated and enjoy the rainforest scenery. Pace yourself to conserve energy.

Day 3: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

• Elevation: 2,600m (8,530ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft).

• Distance: 12km (7.5 miles).

• Hiking Time: 6-7 hours.

• Habitat: Moorland.

• Details:

  • Trek through moorland with views of the Eastern ice fields.

  • Arrive at Kikelewa Camp for overnight stay.

  • Tip: Pay attention to your body’s response to altitude. Report any signs of altitude sickness to your guide immediately.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

• Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,206ft).

• Distance: 6km (3.7 miles).

• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Trek to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located in a cirque beneath Mawenzi Peak.

  • Take an acclimatization walk in the afternoon.

  • Tip: Use this day to acclimatize properly. Drink plenty of water and rest for the challenging days ahead.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp

• Activity: Acclimatization hike.

• Details:

  • Spend the day acclimatizing with a guided hike around Mawenzi Tarn.

  • Rest and prepare for the summit push.

  • Tip: Take advantage of the shorter hiking day to rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Camp

• Elevation: 4,330m (14,206ft) to 4,700m (15,420ft).

• Distance: 9km (5.6 miles).

• Hiking Time: 5-6 hours.

• Habitat: Alpine Desert.

• Details:

  • Trek across the Saddle to Kibo Camp, the base camp for the summit push.

  • Rest and prepare for the midnight summit push.

  • Tip: Eat well and stay hydrated. Sleep early to prepare for the long night ahead.

Day 7: Summit Day (Kibo Camp to Uhuru Peak and Descent to Horombo Camp)

• Elevation: 4,700m (15,420ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) and down to 3,706m (12,159ft).

• Distance: 22km (13.7 miles) round trip.

• Hiking Time: 12-16 hours.

• Habitat: Arctic Zone.

• Details:

  • Begin the summit attempt at midnight, trekking steep scree slopes to Gilman’s Point (5,685m / 18,650ft) on the crater rim.

  • Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341ft), the highest point in Africa.

  • Descend to Kibo Camp for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Camp for the night.

  • Tip: Dress warmly in layers for the summit attempt. Take small, steady steps and follow your guide’s pace.

Day 8: Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate

• Elevation: 3,706m (12,159ft) to 1,843m (6,046ft).

• Distance: 20km (12.4 miles).

• Hiking Time: 5-7 hours.

• Habitat: Rainforest.

• Details:

  • Descend through montane forest to Marangu Gate.

  • Receive your summit certificate (for those who reached Gilman’s Point or Uhuru Peak).

  • Transfer back to the base hotel for a hot shower and celebratory dinner.

  • Tip: Celebrate your achievement and rest after the strenuous climb.

Day 9: Departure

• Activity: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

• Details:

  • After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.

  • Tip: Ensure you have all your belongings and travel documents ready for departure.

7-Day Rongai Route Park Fees

9 Days Climbing Kilimanjaro – Rongai Route in 7 Days – Prices and Services

What’s Included in the Price?

1. Meals: 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 9 dinners.

2. Accommodation: 2 nights in a 3-star hotel in Arusha and 7 nights of fully supported camping on a twin-share basis.

3. Group Camping Equipment: Tents (sleeping bags and mats not included – can be hired locally).

4. Guides and Porters: Experienced local mountain guides, cooks, and camp crew, as well as porters to carry personal and group equipment.

5. Safety Equipment: Emergency oxygen.

6. Transportation: Transfers between the airport, hotel, and Rongai Gate.

What’s Not Included?

1. 1. Flights: International or domestic flights to/from Kilimanjaro.

   2. Arrival/Departure Transfers: Transfers in Arusha.

   3. Sleeping Bags and Mats: Can be hired locally.

   4. Beverages: Aerated and alcoholic drinks.

   5. Personal Expenses: Phone calls, laundry, etc.

   6. Tips: For guides, porters, and camp crew.

   7. Airport and Departure Taxes: Any applicable taxes.

   8. Visa: Tanzania tourist visa (approximately USD 50-100, depending on nationality).

   9. Travel Insurance: Mandatory for emergency medical and evacuation coverage.

   10. Meals Not Mentioned: Meals not included in the itinerary.

Costs of Additional Services