8 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE TREK – MOUNT KILIMANJARO

OVERVIEW

The Rongai Route is the only trekking path that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern side. It is considered the second easiest route after Marangu, offering a scenic and less crowded trekking experience. This route features unique wilderness conditions, passing through remote landscapes and caves before merging with the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. It is an excellent choice for climbers looking to avoid the peak-season crowds while enjoying spectacular views and diverse ecosystems.

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Included:

• Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
• Professional, English-speaking guide
• Accommodation in lodges and tented camps
• Meals according to the itinerary
• Drinking water
• Activities and transfers as per itinerary
• All national park fees

Excluded:

• Flights (international and domestic)
• Meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Optional activities
• Tips
• Personal expenses, visa fees, and travel insurance

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TANZANIA

Pick up from either Arusha City or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to Arusha or Moshi, the gateway cities to Mount Kilimanjaro. You will stay overnight at a base hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where trekking briefings and final preparations for the climb will take place. (Accommodation: Half Board - BB)

DAY 2: RONGAI GATE TO RONGAI CAVE

• Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
• Elevation: 6,400 ft to 9,300 ft
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest
  After breakfast, we drive to the Rongai Gate, the starting point of our trek. The hike begins through lush rainforest terrain, gradually ascending towards Rongai Cave, where we set up camp for the night.

DAY 3: RONGAI CAVE TO KIKELEWA CAVE VIA SECOND CAVE

• Distance: 12 km (8 miles)
• Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,811 ft
• Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
• Habitat: Heath
  We start the day with a moderate climb through moorland, reaching Second Cave before continuing towards Kikelewa Cave. The landscape transitions from dense vegetation to open heathlands with beautiful views of Mawenzi Peak.

DAY 4: KIKELEWA CAVE TO MAWENZI TARN CAMP

• Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
  A short yet steep ascent brings us to Mawenzi Tarn, set beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The rest of the day is spent acclimatizing and enjoying the scenic surroundings.

DAY 5: MAWENZI TARN TO MAWENZI RIDGE & BACK

• Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) round trip
• Elevation: 14,160 ft to 14,400 ft (returning to 14,160 ft)
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
  This extra acclimatization day includes a short trek to Mawenzi Ridge before returning to Mawenzi Tarn for another night. The unique landscape offers breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi.

DAY 6: MAWENZI TARN TO KIBO HUT

• Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles)
• Elevation: 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Habitat: Alpine Desert
  We gradually ascend across the barren “Saddle” desert that stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain is rocky and dry. We camp at Kibo Hut and prepare for the summit attempt.

DAY 7: KIBO HUT TO UHURU PEAK & DESCENT TO MWEKA CAMP

• Ascent Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft (Uhuru Peak)
• Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
• Habitat: Arctic
• Descent Distance: 12 km (7 miles)
• Elevation: 19,341 ft to 10,065 ft
• Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
  We begin our summit push around midnight. The steep and physically demanding climb brings us to Stella Point (18,900 ft), where we witness a spectacular sunrise. We then proceed to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa (19,341 ft). After celebrating our achievement, we descend to Barafu for lunch before continuing down to Mweka Camp for an overnight stay.

DAY 8: MWEKA CAMP TO MWEKA GATE & RETURN TO MOSHI/ARUSHA

• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Elevation: 10,065 ft to 5,380 ft
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Habitat: Rainforest
  We complete our descent to Mweka Gate, where we receive summit certificates. The final trek passes through lush rainforests. From Mweka Gate, we return to Moshi for an overnight stay or transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.