Rongai Route

Duration: 6 days
Trails: T3 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m ascent per day
> Same route, faster ascent
> Rongai Route in 6 days
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All routes on Kilimanjaro start the ascent from the Southern side of the mountain. All but one and that is the Rongai Route. In the tiny settlement of Nalemoru, literally a stone's throw away from the Kenyan border, this route snakes its way up to Uhuru Peak. This is very much the Northern side of the mountain and that brings us straight to one of the drawcards for choosing this climbing route: It sees less rain. The wet months for Kilimanjaro and for the area as a whole are March, April, May, and, to a lesser extent, November. During the wet seasons, the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro can turn into a mud fest. This applies to the routes on the other side of the mountain because that is where most of the rain falls.

Do you want all the benefits from the Rongai Route but a faster ascent? Go for the 6-day option and skip one night of acclimatisation. As with all Bookatrekking. com offers, the 6-day Rongai route also includes transfers to and from the airport, the guide(s), porters, meals and accommodation in tents. A detailed list of included services can be found below.

Why choose Bookatrekking.com?
At Bookatrekking.com we care for our staff, we think and act local, and we make sure that everyone makes it home safe. We only make use of certified local guides and porters, we don't do nonsense, we eat well, and we don't like hidden costs. Uhuru is Swahili for Freedom. We like Freedom.


Itinerary

Day
1

Moshi – Nalemoru Gate (1,990 m) – Simba Camp (2,625 m)

Duration: 02:50 h
Distance: 6.86 km
Ascent: 620 m

Following breakfast, a drive will transport you around the northwestern flank of Mount Kilimanjaro. In a span of 3 to 4 hours, you'll arrive at the Nalemoru Gate. Upon the fulfillment of the registration process and the distribution of your belongings amongst the porters, your remarkable journey commences.

The pathway traces the contours of mountain farmers' fields and pine forests before delving into the sparser expanse of the mountain forest zone. It's in this region that you may have the opportunity to encounter black and white colobus monkeys in their natural habitat.

After a hike of approximately 3 to 4 hours, you'll reach the Simba Camp, where you'll settle in for the night.

Simba Camp

Info
Simba Camp
Day
2

Simba Camp (2,625 m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m)

Duration: 05:00 h
Distance: 11.6 km
Ascent: 1070 m
Descent: 30 m

Today's trek takes you through the heather and moorland zones, presenting striking vistas of Mawenzi and the expansive Kenyan steppes. The grandeur of the scenery is truly remarkable. At the Second Cave (3,450 m), you'll halt for lunch, followed by a brief respite. Post-break, you'll navigate the rolling terrain en route to Kikelewa Camp.

Kikelewa Camp offers remarkable panoramas, and after a demanding day of climbing, it provides a serene environment to unwind and soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Kikelelwa Camp

Info
Kikelelwa Camp
Day
3

Kikelelwa Camp (3,630 m) - Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330 m)

Duration: 02:10 h
Distance: 3.7 km
Ascent: 620 m

The next phase of our journey entails a brief yet invigorating ascent to Mawenzi Tarn, nestled at an elevation of 4,330 meters. This segment of the climb is characterized by its short duration but steep incline, offering a burst of physical challenge amidst the breathtaking landscapes.

As we ascend, the familiar vegetation that has accompanied us thus far gradually recedes into the background. The transition from verdant growth to the raw beauty of higher altitudes is a remarkable transformation that underscores the diverse nature of the mountain's environment.

Our destination is the Mawenzi Tarn campsite, a designated resting place amidst this elevated realm. Here, amidst the serenity of the mountainous terrain, you'll find respite and shelter. The campsite serves as a strategic point for acclimatization, a vital process for adapting to the changing altitudes and conditions of the ascent.

The afternoon following our arrival is unstructured, allowing you the freedom to engage in activities that contribute to your acclimatization process. This could involve relaxation, gentle walks, or simply absorbing the unique atmosphere of this high-altitude haven. As the sun casts its gentle glow over the landscape, you'll have the opportunity to truly connect with the mountain and prepare for the challenges and wonders that lie ahead.

Mawenzi Tarn Hut

Info
Mawenzi Tarn Hut
See entire itinerary

Included

  • Private transport to and from airport to your hotel

    Your trekking company is able to pick you up from the airport and bring your to your hotel. A transfer back to the airport is also included in the package.

  • Transportation to and from the start/end point

    The transport from your accommodation to the start point is taken care of. This also applies to the way back.

  • Four Season Mountain tents

    On Mount Kilimanjaro you're staying in our strong and well maintained four season mountain tents. Every time you arrive at your camp the tent has already been set up.

  • Double Layered Sleeping Mats

    Double layered mats provided by your trekking company will put you to sleep in no time.

  • Hot meals daily while on the mountain

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared during the trek. Your trekking company is bringing their own cook. Don't be surprised when you see an exclusive three course dinner on your plate.

  • Treated and filtered water

    During the trek you won't have a shortage on drinking water.

  • Hot water for washing

    Don't expect an extensive shower, but there will be the possibility to use hot water for a decent wash.

  • Altitude Sickness & First Aid Kit

    The guides carry an altitude sickness kit to monitor your pulse rate, oxygen saturation and heart rate twice a day (very useful for monitoring the symptoms of altitude sickness (AMS) at altitude). Also emergency portable oxygen is carried along. On top of that the guides are qualified Wilderness First Responders.

  • KINAPA Rescue Fee

    The fees for the Kilimanjaro Rescue Team are covered. This is managed by KINAPA, Kilimanjaro National Parks. Interesting fact: Kinapa means “We carry each other” in Swahili.

  • Park fee, camping fee, VAT and other taxes

    The park entry fees, the crater fee, camping fee and value added tax are included in the price.

  • Fair salary, food, insurance and accommodation for guide and porter(s)

    The total amount covers not only your own basics, but also those of your guide and porter. No unpleasant surprises.

  • Your own team of porters and guides

    Per person you generally have a team of 1 guide, 1 cook and 8 porters who will support you in your climb. If you are part of a group of four, you will be able to enjoy 2 guides, 1 cook and 12 porters. Although there will always be enough hands on deck, the exact amount of support staff varies per route.

Excluded

  • Visa for Tanzania

    Visas are required for all visitors, and cost about $50. For most nationalities it is possible to get a visa upon arrival when you arrive at the airport in Tanzania. Check with your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate to see what the requirements are.

  • Flights to and from Moshi

    The total amount is also exclusive of flights to and from Tanzania. To get an idea of which airlines are visiting Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), it is best to have a look at their website.

  • Personal expenses

    All personal expenses such as drinks at the bar, washing and other similar expenses are for your own account.

  • Travel Insurance Including Repatriation

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers adventures at a high altitude. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before you travel to Tanzania.

  • Tipping

    Tips for guides and porters are excluded. You decide what you want to tip, but be generous and read about tipping when you are planning to go trekking in Tanzania.

  • Portable flush toilet

    Portable flush toilet with a toilet tent is available for USD 70 for the entire trek.

  • Accommodation before and after the trek

    Whether you stay in Moshi, Arusha or anywhere else, before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation and meals.

FAQ

  • What Makes the Rongai Route So Special?

  • How Hard is the Rongai Route?

  • Best Season for The Rongai Route

How to Book

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  • Availability

  • Cancellation policy

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