The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds.
Rongai has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).
Rongai is a moderately difficult route and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.
Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for nearly the entire way. Descent is made via the Marangu route.
Best time to visit: June – October—December, January, February, March
What is the Success Rate of Climbing Kilimanjaro on the Rongai Route?
For all operators combined, it is estimated that the 6-day Rongai route has a success rate of approximately 50% and the 7 day Rongai route has a success rate of about 70%. Our 6-day Rongai route has a success rate of approximately 70-75% and our 7- and 8-day Rongai route has a success rate of approximately 85-90%.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport our Vicmos tours & safari guide will be there waiting for you to pick you up then drops you off at your hotel, where you can relax from your flight.
Preparation for your climb: You will meet your guide on this day of arrival at 05;00 PM. /17;00 hrs. for your mountain climb briefing, where he briefs you and offers advice on what to wear, what to pack, and other important tips to make your climb as comfortable as possible.
Dinner & Overnight; Lindrin Lodge /Maridadi hotel/Salinero Hotel/ something similar (as per final booking accommodation allocation)
Activities : Hiking
Rongai Gate (2,020m/6,627ft) to Simba Camp (2,600m/8,530ft)
Hiking distance: 6km
Hiking time: 3–4hrs
Overnight: Simba Camp (Lunch,Dinner meals included)
Today we will drive about 3 hours from hotel in Moshi to Rongai gate for registrations and collect entrance permit. You will have lunch and meet your Kilimanjaro crew, after hiking will start through crossing village of Nalemuru fields of maize and potatoes before entering the Montane Forest. The climb is consistently and gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife like blue monkeys and black and white Colobus Monkeys. You will reach the first campsite at the edge of rain forest and overnight.
Activities : Hiking
Simba Camp (2,600m/8,530ft) to Second Cave (3,450/11,319ft) to Third Cave (3,800m/12,467ft)
Hiking distance: 13km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hrs
Overnight: Third Cave Camp (All meals included)
You continue on the trail leading out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As you ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the first Cave, then second Cave for hot lunch before proceeding to third Cave. The view of Kibo Peak is amazing
Activities : Hiking
Third Cave (3800m/12,467) – Kibo Camp (4,720m/14,930ft)
Hiking Distance: 12km
Hiking Time: 6-7hrs
The steady ascend continues, soon reaching the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo. You should reach Kibo Camp at elevation of 4,720m by midday. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final rewarding ascent the following day.
Overnight: Kibo hut (All meals included)
Activities : Hiking
Kibo Camp; (4,720m/14,930ft) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,340ft) descend to Horombo (3,720m/12,205ft)
Hiking Distance: 16.5km
Hiking Time: 11hrs up and down
Overnight: Horombo Hut Camp (All meals included)
A very early start as you set off by the light of our head-torches, on a zigzag trail on rough volcanic scree. It is a tough 5 to 6hrs climb of almost 1000 Meter to the crater rim at Gillman’s Point (5,685m), which is a convenient point to rest and watch the sunrise on Mawenzi. It is a further 2-hour round trip to Uhuru Peak the highest point in Africa. Usually in the early morning, the conditions are clear and there are panoramic views over the crater, to Mawenzi and Mount Meru (4565m), looking very small below us. This part of the route takes us through a moonscape of volcanic rock and remnant glaciers with their impressive ice cliffs. After admiring the summit views and taking the obligatory summit photos we pat ourselves on the back for this awesome Achievement. you then retrace your path around the crater rim you make a rapid descent to the Kibo Hut (4700m). You will have lunch here, before setting off on the long descent to your camp at Horombo (3720m). A long day trekking – but so rewarding
Activities : Hiking
Horombo Camp (3,720m/12,205ft) to Marangu Gate (1,800m/5,906ft)
Hiking Distance: 19km
Descending Time: 6-7hrs
Overnight; Hotel / Lodge
As you descend from Horombo, you begin to encounter more vegetation and the lower part of the route is through pine forest. We pass the traditional first camping place on the Marangu Route at the Mandara Huts and continue our descent to the Marangu Gate (1800m).
You will say farewell to our trusty guide, staff and the porters who have helped us during the past week and pick up our certificates of ascent, you will have hot Lunch with our Mountain Crew before transfer to our hotel.
Activities : Hiking
Sadly, this is the end of your holiday and the time to go home has arrived. Enjoy your last hours in Tanzania before our driver comes to pick you up and takes you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home or Zanzibar. Still longing for more? It's also possible to add a few days of safari or a beach holiday to your Kilimanjaro adventure!
Activities : Hiking
| No of pax | Age Limit | Price per pax (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | Above 12 years | $ 2642 / Adult( With Tax ) |
* 20% Advance Percentage of total booking amount
* Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.
The VICMOS Tours & Safaris Limited is a trusted Tanzanian tour operator specializing in customized safaris, mountain expeditions, beach escapes, and unique travel experiences across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and beyond. With operational hubs in Kilima Know more..
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