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The Rongai route ascents Kilimanjaro from the northeastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north.
RONGAI ROUTE - 6 DAYS CLIMB
Day 1:
Arrive at Siesta Lodge in time for an early evening pre-climb briefing on the trek, dinner and overnight.
Day 2:
After breakfast we will transfer you to Rongai. The climb begins from the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru (1,950 m.) on a small path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife, including the beautiful Kilimanjaro Colobus monkey. These monkeys are black with a long ‘cape’ of white hair and a flowing white tail. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2,600 m.) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains. [3-4 hours walking]
Day 3:
The morning walk is a steady ascent up to Second Cave at 11300 ft / 3450 m with superb views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields on the crater rim. Pushing on to reach Third Cave taking 3 to 4 hours at 1280 ft / 3800 m for overnight camp. Overnight at 3rd Cave Camp.
Day 4:
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. We leave vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m.), spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatisation. [3-4 hours walking]
Day 5:
This is your most difficult day's climb, beginning very early and takes you up the steep point of Gilmans Point (5,681m). From here you will trek on to the crater rim where you should see the sun rise. This part of the journey should take about 7 - 8 hours. Thereafter you will continue on to Uhuru Peak (5,896mm) and then begin your descent back to Horombo Hut. This part should take about 4 - 7 hours, depending on how tired you are. Here you will stay in the hut, and enjoy a well deserved meal before retiring.
Day 6:
We will start the final, and by far the steepest and most demanding, part of the climb by torchlight around 1 a.m. We plod very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point (5,685 m.) We will rest there for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo (4,700 m.) is surprisingly fast and, after some refreshment, we continue the descent to reach our final campsite at Horombo (3,720 m.). [11-15 hours walking]
Day 7:
A steady descent takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut (2,700m.), the first stopping place at the Marangu route. We then continue descending through lovely lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1,830 m.). [5-6 hours walking. You will be transferred to Siesta Lodge in Moshi for overnight.
Day 8:
Depart after breakfast.
Click route name below and view itinerary
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