7 Days Rongai Route

Tanzania
7 days

Overview

The Rongai route ascends Kilimanjaro from the northeast, along the Tanzania-Kenya border, providing a secluded wilderness trek and distinctive northern mountain vistas. Its terrain limits the effectiveness of the ‘climb high, sleep low’ acclimatization technique, potentially increasing altitude sickness risks compared to other routes. An additional acclimatization day at Mwenzi Tarn is highly advised. The ascent from Kibo Hut to Gilman’s Point involves a scree path, and the descent follows the Marangu route. The variation between the 6-day and 7-day itineraries is the inclusion of an extra acclimatization day.

Duration

7 days

Places to Visit

Stunning view of Gilman's Point, Mount Kilimanjaro showcasing rugged landscapes and rocky peaks.

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Day by Day Itinerary

You will be picked up by the staff of African Traits from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and driven to your accommodation in Moshi. Participants will be given a short briefing for the climb the next day. Kits and the necessary equipment will be checked as well.

Accommodation: Moshi Salsalinero Hotel
Meals: Dinner

Hiking time: 4 hours
Distance: Approximately 6.7km
Habitat: Forest (Montane)

We depart from Moshi town and drive 45mins. to Marangu park gate for registration. From there, we travel to Naro Moru, a further 68km and approximately 2 ½ hours on bad roads to the Rongai starting point (1996m). We begin our hike from the Nale Moru village. The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then we climb gently through a forest. The trail is not steep, but is rather a gentle hike through a beautiful countryside. The first night’s camp is at Simba Camp (2626m). The camp facilities include a public toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut.

Accommodation: Simba Hut
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours
Distance: Approximately 11.8 km
Habitat: Moorlands

We hike from Simba camp to Kibo (3482m). We arrive for lunch at First Caves. The distance is 5.8km. After lunch, we continue trekking until we reach Kikelewa Camp at about 3679m. Here you will have an amazing view including a stream of water below the cave.

Accommodation:Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Hiking time: 3 hours •Distance: Approximately 3.7km •Habitat: Moorlands

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offer superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Here we spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.

Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Hiking time: 5 hours
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Habitat: Alpine desert

After breakfast, we head west and continue ascending on the east side of Kibo. We then cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo hut.

Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast Lunch andDinner

Kibo hut (4730m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo hut (3705m)

Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours to reach Uhuru Peak | 6 to 8 hours to descend to Horombo

Distance: Approximately 5.4km ascent and 15 km descent
Habitat: Stone scree / ice-cap summit

The total time spent walking on this day is around 14 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day. You will rise around 23h20, and after some tea and biscuit, we begin our ascent. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s point (5681m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great physical and mental effort. This is probably the most demanding section of the entire route. From Gillmans Point, you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa!

Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you will be able to spend taking photographs and enjoying the amazing scenery. Afterwards, we begin our 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut. After a short rest at Kibo hut, we gather all our remaining gears and head down to Horombo hut (3 hours) for your overnight. The return to Horombo hut will seem surprisingly fast compared to the ascent. Later in the evening, you will have your last dinner on the mountain and have a well-earned sleep.

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Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 19.7 km
Habitat: Moorland & Montane Forest

After breakfast, we continue our descent for around 6 hours passing the Mandara hut down to the Marangu gate. At Marangu gate, successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Gillman’s Point (5685m) are issued with green certificates, and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. Afterwards, we drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower and celebration.

Accommodation: Moshi Salsalinero Hotel
Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

Inclusions

Full board accommodation whilst on safari in the above-mentioned Public Camps
Private safari guide
Maasai Experience tour
Extended Toyota Land Cruiser
Private 4 x 4 safari jeep with pop-up roof for game viewing
Transfers in both directions between the International Airport and Moshi.
All entrance Park fees
Ngorongoro Crater fees
18% VAT to our entrance fees.
All meals while on safari.

Exclusions

Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD 100
Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
Meals not listed above
Optional Tours (balloon rides USD. 540 per person)
Tips and any items of personal nature

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Included and Excluded in Every Tour?

The inclusions and exclusions vary by tour. Each tour has its specific set of inclusions and exclusions. Please refer to the individual tour page to see what is specifically included in that tour.

What Are Your Cancellation Terms?

Our cancellation terms are standard within the industry. For more information on our cancellation policy, please visit the designated page.

What Vaccines and Health Requirements Are Needed?

The requirements vary depending on the country and nationality. For the most accurate information, please visit the page specific to your destination and consult the corresponding embassy page for the latest information.

Can I Choose Other Accommodation Than What’s Specified?

Yes, if you have a special preference, let us know, and we will offer alternatives from our vast network of company-owned and partner accommodations. Booking with us allows you to enjoy discounted rates as we have special agreements with our partners.

Will My Mobile/Cellular Phone Work During the Tour?

Yes, though signal strength may vary in different areas.

What Activities Can My Kids Do While on a Safari?

A safari offers an enriching experience for children, allowing them to observe animals in their natural habitat. Some camps and lodges offer amenities for children, such as playrooms and pools, though these are not universally available. We suggest bringing activities that your children enjoy.

What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

We accept various payment methods, including card payments. For more information on acceptable payment methods, please visit our payment information page.

What If I Have Special Needs or Requirements?

We strive to cater to all requirements, such as providing wheelchair-friendly accommodation or rooms on the first floor if stairs are a challenge. Please communicate with us in advance about your needs.

What Are the Road Conditions Like?

Most safari parks have bumpy but manageable roads, with some roads being paved. Generally, guests do not view this as a problem.

Is Electricity Available 24 Hours in the Lodges and Camps?

Most standard camps and lodges are equipped with generators, so electricity is generally available 24 hours. However, some interruptions may occur but are typically not a significant concern for guests.

What About My Special Diet and Food Preferences?

We cater to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, among others. Please inform us in advance about your dietary preferences.

Is Tipping Required?

Tipping is not required but is recommended. The amount varies by country, but you should tip according to what you feel is appropriate.