9-Day Rongai Route

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Home / Kilimanjaro Trekking / 9 days Rongai Route – Kilimanjaro Trekking

Trekking Highlights

Get ready for an exciting nine-day trekking adventure along the Rongai route to the top of Kilimanjaro. This little-used path offers a unique perspective on the mountain, starting in the north and crossing diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to barren alpine desert. Hike through dense forests teeming with wild animals, climb through moorlands with panoramic views and venture the challenging summit climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. With experienced guides at your side and comfortable tent sites to relax, this expedition promises unforgettable moments and a feeling of fulfillment when you conquer the summit of Africa. This route can also be mastered well in the rainy season with restrictions.
If you would like to combine the ascent of Kilimanjaro with a safari and / or a stay in Zanzibar, we will be happy to advise you.

What’s Included?

  • Pick-up and return transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) *
  • 2 nights at the hotel in Moshi (before and after the ascent)
  • Breakfast is included in the hotel *
  • 1 party drink after the ascent (beer, juice or soda) at our expense *
  • Group transportation to and from Moshi to ALL gates of Kilimanjaro Park *
  • No additional transportation fees for the gates of the north or west way *
  • Kilimanjaro National Park Permits
  • Camping / hut fees
  • Mountain rescue fees
  • Salaries for guides / carriers
  • Private toilet for the group on all ascents (except for Marangu) *
  • All year round mountain tents
  • Foam sleeping mat (unless brought by yourself)
  • Dining tents, tables, chairs for groups of two or more
  • All meals on the mountain
  • There are no additional fees for small groups
  • There are no single room surcharges for private ascents

What’s Excluded?

  • Flight costs
  • Personal equipment
  • Tipping for porters & guides
  • Tanzania visa: $50 per person on arrival
  • Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.)
  • Optional tours (e.g. short safari after your ascent, etc.)
  • Tips and any personal belongings 

Related Tours

Detailed travel route

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi / Tanzania

They are picked up at Kilimanjaro International (JRO) or Arusha airport and taken to Ameg Lodge or an accommodation of their choice in Moshi. Meet with your trekking guide for instruction and equipment review. Relax and prepare for the upcoming adventure.

Overnight: Ameg Lodge

Day 2: Moshi / Arusha to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp (2,650 m)

After breakfast drive to Rongai Gate (1,950 m) for registration and formalities. Start the trek through dense forest and discover various bird species and colobus monkeys. Reach the Simba Camp for the night.
Distance: 9 km
Difference in altitude: 700 m
Time: 4 hours

Day 3: Simba Camp to the Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)

Trek through moorlands with occasional views of the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Ascend steadily to the Second Cave Camp at the foot of Kibo. Enjoy breathtaking sunset views.
Distance: 7 km
Difference in altitude: 800 m
Time: 3-4 hours

Day 4: Second Cave Camp to the Kikelwa Camp (3,600 m)

Cross the barren landscape and cross the moon desert towards Kikelwa Camp. Climb to the Third Cave (3870 m) before descending into a valley lined with huge Senecio plants.
Distance: 12 km
Difference in altitude: 420 m uphill, 270 m downhill
Time: 5-6 hours

Day 5: Kikelwa Camp to the Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)

Gradually ascend through alpine desert landscapes with breathtaking views of the Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at the Mawenzi Tarn Camp, which is located under the towering cliffs of Mawenzi. Rest and acclimatize.
Distance: 9 km
Difference in altitude: 730 m
Time: 4-5 hours

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut (4,695 m)

Trek over the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, a barren alpine desert. Come to Kibo Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt. Rest and prepare for the summit storm.
Distance: 9 km
Difference in altitude: 365 m
Time: 4 -5 hours

Day 7: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) to Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Start the ascent in the early morning under the starry sky. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) at sunrise and go to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to the Horombo Hut for a well-deserved break.
Route: 6 km uphill, 15 km downhill
Difference in altitude: 1200 m uphill, 2175 m downhill
Time: 8 hours uphill, 6 hours downhill

Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1830 m)

Descend through moorlands to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificates. Transfer back to your hotel for dinner and a well-deserved break.
Distance: 20 km
Difference in altitude: 1890 m
Time: 6 hours

Day 9: Transfer to Arusha or airport

After breakfast, they are picked up from the hotel and brought to either Arusha or the airport.

Note: This is a suggestion for Kilimanjaro tour.
This can also be combined with other activities such as safari, beach holidays, mountain bike tours, etc. We would be happy to advise you in direct contact to be able to offer you an individual and unforgettable adventure.

Rongai route prices:

6 days hike including 2 nights in Moshi

1 person = $ 2350
2-3 people =$ 1780
4-7 people =$ 1735
8-11 people = $ 1680

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Ready to Explore Tanzania on Safari?

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