Perfect for the rainy season
The Rongai Route is ideal for those trekking during the rainy season, as it experiences less rain compared to other routes.
Rongai Route in 7 days
This 7-day trek offers a unique opportunity to explore Kilimanjaro from the Northern side, starting from Nalemoru, near the Kenyan border, and gradually making your way to Uhuru Peak.
Guaranteed departure for every date in the calendar
No matter when you choose to climb, your trek is guaranteed to depart on the specified dates.
The Rongai Route starts its ascent from the southern side of Kilimanjaro, but unlike other routes, it begins on the northern side, near the settlement of Nalemoru. One of the main advantages of this route is the reduced rainfall, especially during the wet months of March, April, and May. While other routes experience heavy rain, the Rongai route offers a drier experience, making it a great choice if you’re trekking during the rainy season.
The route also enjoys fewer clouds and better views, providing an optimal experience for those eager to appreciate the stunning landscapes. By choosing the longest version of the Rongai Route, you’ll maximize your adventure and acclimatization on this amazing path.
As with all Babul Adventure offers, the 7-day Rongai Route includes airport transfers, guides, porters, meals, and comfortable camping accommodation. A detailed list of included services is available below.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Moshi – Rongai Camp (2,600 m)
- Duration: 02:50 h
- Distance: 6.9 km / 4.3 mi
- Ascent: 630 m / 2067 ft
After an early breakfast in Moshi, you’ll drive to the Rongai (Nalemoru) Gate near the Kenya border, marking the start of your climb. The trail meanders through a forest, providing glimpses of wildlife. The path gently ascends, offering an easy introduction to the trek. You’ll camp at Rongai Camp at 2,600 meters, enjoying views of the Kenyan plains.
Day 2: Rongai Camp (2,600 m) – Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)
- Duration: 03:00 h
- Distance: 5.72 km / 3.6 mi
- Ascent: 840 m / 2756 ft
A steady ascent leads you to Second Cave Camp at 3,450 meters. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields. After lunch, take time to relax, with an optional acclimatization walk to the Third Cave.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp (3,450 m) – Kikelewa Cave (3,630 m)
- Duration: 02:00 h
- Distance: 5.7 km / 3.5 mi
- Ascent: 220 m / 722 ft
- Descent: 30 m / 98 ft
The journey continues with a gradual ascent through open moorland, leading to Kikelewa Camp at 3,630 meters. You’ll enjoy views of the Mawenzi pinnacles. The serene atmosphere of the camp offers a chance to relax and unwind.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330 m)
- Duration: 02:10 h
- Distance: 3.7 km / 2.3 mi
- Ascent: 620 m / 2034 ft
A brief ascent takes you to Mawenzi Tarn Hut at 4,330 meters. The camp serves as an important acclimatization point. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, taking gentle walks or resting as you adjust to the higher altitude.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m) – Kibo Hut (4,703 m)
- Duration: 03:10 h
- Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
- Ascent: 510 m / 1673 ft
- Descent: 130 m / 427 ft
Cross the barren lunar desert to Kibo Hut at 4,703 meters. The environment is stark and otherworldly. After settling in, rest for the upcoming final ascent, ensuring you conserve energy for the summit. Prepare for an early night.
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)
- Duration: 10:25 h
- Distance: 19.7 km / 12.2 mi
- Ascent: 1160 m / 3806 ft
- Descent: 2170 m / 7119 ft
The final ascent begins at night, illuminated by stars. After passing Hans Meyer Cave at 5,200 meters, you’ll reach Gilman’s Point at 5,715 meters. Continuing to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 meters, you’ll then descend to Kibo Hut for a break before heading down to Horombo Hut at 3,700 meters for the night.
Day 7: Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Moshi
- Duration: 07:10 h
- Distance: 19.6 km / 12.2 mi
- Descent: 1830 m / 6004 ft
Begin your descent through heather and moorland to Mandara Hut for lunch. Continue to the lush tropical rainforest, heading to the Marangu Gate at 1,860 meters. From there, return to Moshi, completing your incredible Kilimanjaro adventure.
Included in the Package:
- Private transport to and from the airport to your hotel:
Your trekking company provides airport transfers, picking you up and bringing you to your hotel, and also arranging transport back to the airport after your trek. - Transportation to and from the start/end point:
The transport from your accommodation to the trek’s start point and the return journey are included. - Four Season Mountain tents:
Strong, well-maintained, and reliable four-season mountain tents will be provided for your stay on Mount Kilimanjaro. Your tents will be set up for you upon arrival at each camp. - Double Layered Sleeping Mats:
Double-layered sleeping mats provided by the trekking company will ensure you get a comfortable rest each night. - Hot meals daily while on the mountain:
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared on the trek by your cook. Expect delicious, sometimes even three-course meals. - Treated and filtered water:
You won’t face any water shortages during the trek as the water is treated and filtered for safe drinking. - Hot water for washing:
While it may not be an extensive shower, hot water will be available for a decent wash during your trek. - Altitude Sickness & First Aid Kit:
Guides carry an altitude sickness kit to monitor your pulse, oxygen levels, and heart rate. Emergency oxygen is available, and the guides are trained Wilderness First Responders. - KINAPA Rescue Fee:
The fees for the Kilimanjaro Rescue Team are included in the price. KINAPA stands for Kilimanjaro National Park, and “Kinapa” means “We carry each other” in Swahili. - Park fee, camping fee, VAT, and other taxes:
All necessary fees, including park entry fees, crater fees, camping fees, and VAT, are covered in the package. - Fair salary, food, insurance, and accommodation for guides and porters:
The total cost includes not only your expenses but also fair compensation and provisions for your guide and porters, ensuring no unpleasant surprises. - Your own team of porters and guides:
Typically, you will have a team consisting of one guide, one cook, and eight porters for your trek. In larger groups, the team size will be adjusted, and you may have additional guides and porters to ensure the smooth running of the trek.
Excluded from the Package:
- Visa for Tanzania:
Visas are required for all visitors to Tanzania and typically cost about $50. Most nationalities can obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport. However, it’s advisable to check with your local Tanzanian embassy or consulate for specific requirements. - Flights to and from Moshi:
Flights to and from Tanzania are not included. To find flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), it’s best to check with airlines that service the area. - Personal expenses:
Personal expenses such as drinks at the bar, laundry, and other similar costs are not included and are for your own account. - Travel Insurance Including Repatriation:
Travel insurance, including coverage for high-altitude adventures and repatriation, is your responsibility. It’s important to ensure that your travel insurance covers such activities and consult with your insurance company about your itinerary before traveling. - Tipping:
Tips for guides and porters are not included in the package. You are free to decide how much to tip, but it’s encouraged to be generous. Research tipping practices in Tanzania before your trek. - Portable flush toilet:
If you require a portable flush toilet with a toilet tent, it is available for an additional cost of USD 70 for the entire trek. - Accommodation before and after the trek:
Accommodation and meals before and after the trek in places like Moshi, Arusha, or elsewhere are not included, and you’ll need to arrange and pay for these separately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- What Makes the Rongai Route So Special? The Rongai route offers a less-crowded, unique wilderness experience compared to other routes. Its gradual ascent is ideal for acclimatization, and it offers beautiful views of the mountain’s landscapes.
- How Hard is the Rongai Route? The Rongai route is considered moderate in difficulty, with a steady and manageable ascent. However, the final summit climb is challenging due to the high altitudes.
- Best Season for the Rongai Route: The best time to trek the Rongai route is during the dry seasons, from late June to October and from December to March.
Booking Information:
- Starting Price:
$1691 per person - Minimum Number of Participants:
2 persons - Cancellation Policy:
Free cancellation up to eight weeks in advance! - Availability:
Check availability for your preferred dates and group discounts. - Booking Contact:
Contact Sierd van der Bij, your trekking expert, for more details or questions.