The Rongai climbing route is the sole path leading up the northeastern slopes of Kilimanjaro Mountain. While the Marangu Route ranks as the second most challenging trekking route, the Rongai Route garners increasing recommendations from guides for its awe-inspiring and distinctive wilderness settings. Trekking through the pristine wilderness for several days precedes joining the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp, enhancing the adventure.
Along the climb, designated caves offer climbers the opportunity to spend nights surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, making this route a favored choice for those seeking to avoid crowds, particularly during peak holiday periods. Climbers can complete this route in six days or more, tailoring the experience to suit individual preferences and pacing.
8 Days
You will be greeted at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transported to Moshi, the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro. Accommodation awaits you at the base hotel in either Moshi or Arusha city, where you will receive comprehensive trekking briefings from your mountain guide. This includes final preparations before beginning the journey to the summit of Africa's highest peak.
Covering a distance of 8 kilometres or 5 miles, our trek will elevate us from 6,398 feet to 9,300 feet over a hiking duration of 3 to 4 hours amidst the lush rainforest habitat. Our journey commences with a brief transfer of less than an hour from Moshi to Marangu Gate, where mandatory registration, permits, and briefings await. We embark on another short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. As we approach the trailhead, we'll traverse through picturesque potato and corn farms before gently ascending into the forest, home to various wildlife, including the renowned white and black colobus monkeys.
Covering a distance of 6 kilometres or 4 miles, our trek from Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave elevates us from 9,300 feet to 11,300 feet over a hiking duration of 3 to 4 hours amidst the heath habitat. We begin our trail early in the morning and embark on a gradual ascent towards Second Cave. From there, we navigate through moorland, veering off the main path onto a narrow trail leading towards the rugged peaks of Mawenzi. Finally, we reach Kikelewa Cave, where we will spend the night, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the mountain.
Covering a distance of 5 kilometres or 3 miles, our trek elevates us from 11,811 feet to 14,160 feet over a hiking duration of 3 to 4 hours amidst the alpine desert habitat. On this day, we will ascend a steep, grassy slope, offering stunning views of the surrounding wildlife. As we trek, the landscape changes dramatically, transitioning from the heath zone to the alpine desert zone. Our camp will be situated beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn, providing a picturesque setting for relaxing or exploring the surrounding area during the remaining daylight hours.
Covering a distance of 2 kilometres or 1 mile, our trek from Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Tarn maintains an elevation ranging from 14,160 feet to 14,400 feet over a hiking duration of 1 to 2 hours amidst the alpine desert habitat. This additional trekking day is designated explicitly for acclimatization, allowing us to explore the surrounding area of Mawenzi Ridge. The distinctive landscape offers climbers breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi, the twin peaks of Kilimanjaro. After discussing and appreciating the surroundings, we return to Mawenzi Tarn for camping, ensuring a well-paced ascent and proper acclimatization.
Covering a distance of 8 kilometres or 5 miles, our trek elevates us from 14,160 feet to 15,430 feet over a hiking duration of 5 to 6 hours amidst the alpine desert habitat. As we ascend, we gradually traverse the lunar-like desert terrain known as the "Saddle," nestled between the peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi. Kibo Hut awaits us at the base of Kibo's crater wall, where we will set up camp and spend the rest of the day enjoying an early dinner in preparation for the summit day ahead.
Covering a distance of 6 kilometres or 4 miles, our trek from Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut elevates us from 15,430 feet to 19,341 feet over a hiking duration of 6 to 8 hours amidst the arctic habitat. We begin our ascent around midnight, slowly pushing towards Uhuru Peak. This part of the trek is mentally and physically demanding, with extreme wind and cold at the high elevation, especially at night. Ascending in darkness for several hours, we take brief breaks along the way. As we approach Stella Point at 18,900 feet, we are greeted by the glorious sunrise over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we reach Uhuru Peak, the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where we experience the breathtaking view from the roof of Africa. After soaking in the moment and celebrating our triumph, we descend towards Horombo Hut.
This portion of the trek descends from 19,341 feet to 12,250 feet, covering a distance of 16 kilometres or 10 miles. It typically takes 4 to 5 hours and traverses through the heath habitat. Upon reaching Horombo Hut, we share our experiences and stories of achievement over our last meal together on the mountain before resting and reflecting on our remarkable journey.
Covering a distance of 20 kilometres or 12 miles, our descent from an elevation of 12,205 feet to 6,046 feet will take approximately 5 to 7 hours, leading us through the lush and dense tropical rainforest habitat. As we make our way downhill, we'll immerse ourselves in the serene surroundings, enjoying the sights and sounds of the vibrant forest. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, the park headquarters, we will be proudly awarded summit certificates for our successful ascent. At Marangu Gate, vehicles are waiting to transfer us back to a base hotel in Moshi, where we can reflect on our incredible journey and celebrate our achievements.
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