6 Days / 5 Nights
Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
TOUR DESTINATION
Rongai Gate, Simba Camp, Second Cave, Kikelewa Cave, Mawenzi Tarn, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Safari Overview
The 6-day Rongai Route itinerary is ideal for hikers looking for a less congested, more gradual approach to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. The Rongai Route begins on the mountain’s northern side and gives breathtaking views of the savannah. Unlike other routes, it is rarely used by large groups, giving you a sense of privacy. The route’s moderate slopes are ideal for people looking to enjoy the grandeur of Kilimanjaro without the strenuous demands of steeper pathways. Trekkers will experience a range of distinct environments along the trip, ranging from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, each with its own unique offering to explore.
Over the course of six days, trekkers will experience a gradual rise, which provides for better acclimatisation and increases the likelihood of reaching the summit. The route offers a true sense of adventure as you go through varied ecosystems, and it is regarded as one of the least strenuous Kilimanjaro treks. On the last day, the summit push to Uhuru Peak will mark the end of a remarkable journey. With professional guides and crew to help you, this tour provides a gratifying, unforgettable experience, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned trekkers and those searching for a more leisurely yet demanding ascent.
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
- Elevation: 1,950m to 2,650m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Habitat: Montane Forest
The first day of the walk begins at the Rongai Gate, which is located on Mount Kilimanjaro’s northern flank. After registering, you’ll begin hiking through the beautiful montane forest, which is home to a variety of species, including monkeys and birds. As you reach Simba Camp, which is at an elevation of 2,650 meters, the forest gradually gives way to an open environment. This camp offers your first views of the mountain’s glaciers and is an excellent site to spend the night, with an ideal setting for stargazing before bed.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
- Elevation: 2,650m to 3,450m
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
- Habitat: Moorland
Today, you’ll continue your journey through the moorland zone, crossing alpine grasses and tiny bushes. The walk is steady with mild hills, allowing you to appropriately adjust to the increasing altitude. As you rise, take in the breathtaking vistas of the northern and eastern valleys. The path goes to Second Cave, which is located at an elevation of 3,450 meters. This is a popular camping area with stunning views of the surrounding environment, including Mount Kilimanjaro’s peak.
Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
- Elevation: 3,450m to 3,600m
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
- Habitat: Moorland
On the third day, the course takes a more moderate rise through the moorland. The trail becomes more rocky, providing spectacular views of the mountain’s eastern slopes and neighbouring valleys. You’ll pass through an area full with enormous senecios and lobelias. Kikelewa Cave, your day’s goal, is located at 3,600 meters and makes a wonderful overnight rest stop. The camp is tucked in a tranquil setting, with panoramic views of the mountain and plains below.
Day 4: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn
- Elevation: 3,600m to 4,300m
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Today’s walk takes you higher into the alpine desert zone. The trail steadily ascends towards Mawenzi Tarn, which sits at 4,300 meters. The view changes dramatically as you go through rock formations and wide empty areas. Mawenzi Tarn, located at the base of the stunning Mawenzi Peak, is one of the most picturesque campsites on the mountain. The high-altitude landscape is great for acclimatisation, and the distinctive surroundings provide a sense of solitude and tranquillity.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 4,300m to 4,700m
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
After leaving Mawenzi Tarn, you will travel across the wide, barren alpine desert to Kibo Hut, located at 4,700 meters. The path leads across a stony, barren area with no flora. As you approach Kibo Hut, the ground becomes more bleak, and views of the top begin to emerge. Kibo Hut is the final rest stop before the summit push, and you’ll get an early night to prepare for the difficult final ascent to the summit the next day.
Day 6: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp
- Elevation: 3,995m to 4,673m
- Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
- Habitat: Alpine desert
Today’s trek takes you to Barafu Camp (4,673m), the last halt before the summit attempt. The area is rough and arid, with loose volcanic scree and fierce winds. The name “Barafu” means “ice” in Swahili, reflecting the high-altitude camp’s frigid and severe surroundings. Upon arrival, you will enjoy an early meal and recover before the midnight summit push. At this height, the air is thin and the temperatures drop dramatically, so proper layering and hydration are necessary.
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m to 3,720m
- Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
- Distance: 19 km / 12 miles
- Habitat: Arctic
Summit day begins with an early start (about midnight) to make the final push to Uhuru Peak, Mount Kilimanjaro’s highest point at 5,895 meters. The hike is difficult, with a sharp gradient as you ascend from Kibo Hut to the peak. The first few hours will be spent in darkness, but as you get closer to the peak, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the rising sun. Reaching Uhuru Peak signals the end of your journey, and you’ll have the opportunity to commemorate this tremendous accomplishment. After some time at the top for photos and enjoyment, you’ll descend to Horombo Hut for an overnight rest, bringing your trip to a finish..
BOOK THIS TOUR
Price quoted includes:
- All transport, 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Hotel and lodge accommodation
- Bottled drinking water & soft drinks
- Services of various local guides
- All National Park entrance and camp site fees
- All food – breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals
- Crater floor game drive
Prices quoted exclude:
- International flights
- Travel and personal accident insurance
- Visa, passport, vaccinations, medicines
- Tips
- Expenditure on personal bar bills (including all additional drinks), souvenirs, personal items
- Optional excursions/activities not detailed in itinerary
- Any additional services requested
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