Rongai Route - 6 Days Trek

– Trek Overview

Rongai is the only route starting on the northern slope of Kilimanjaro. Though this part of the Mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it is not less interesting than the popular southern and western slopes. We recommend Rongai to all those who like reclusive hiking experiences.

Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of the three volcanic cones of Kilimanjaro and the third-highest peak in Africa. The way back lies through Marangu,  and thus you will be able to see both sides of the mountain. Though six and seven-day programs are available, a longer option is recommended for better acclimatization transition. 

  • Start/End : Moshi, Kilimanjaro
  • Trek Duration : 6 Days, 5 Nights
  • Difficulty : Medium
  • Scenery : Excellent
  • Traffic : Low
  • Departure Date : All year round

– Day to Day Itinerary

DAY 1 : Rongai Gate - Rongai Cave

Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.

DAY 2 : Rongai Cave - Second Cave - Kikelewa Cave

Rongai Cave to Second Cave
Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft | Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 6 km/ 4 miles | Habitat: Health

Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
Elevation: 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft | Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 6 km | 4 miles | Habitat: Health

We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking through moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.

DAY 3 : Kikelewa Cave - Mawenzi Tarn

Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 5 km | 3 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.

DAY 4 : Mawenzi Tarn - Kibo Hut

Elevation: 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 8 km | 5 miles
Habitat: Alpine Desert

We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

DAY 5 : Kibo Hut - Uhuru Peak - Horombo Hut

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft | Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Distance: 6 km/4 miles | Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 19,341 ft to 12,250 | Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 16 km | 10 miles | Habitat: Health

Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.
After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

DAY 6 : Horombo Hut - Marangu Gate

Elevation: 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Distance: 20 km | 12 miles
Habitat: Rain Forest

On our last day, we continue the descent to Mweka Gate and collect the summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. From the gate, we continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet us at Mweka Village to drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

– Routine Map

  • Day 1: Rongai Cave
  • Day 2: Kikelewa Cave
  • Day 3: Mawenzi Tarn
  • Day 4: Kibo Hut
  • Day 5: Uhuru Peak
  • Day 6: Marangu Gate

– Trekking Cost Includes

  • All government taxes including 18% VAT
  • Transfer from Kilimanjaro airport (JRO) to Arusha or Moshi
  • Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro entrance gate
  • Certified, experienced, English-speaking guides
  • Guides, Porters and Cook salaries
  • All meals on the mountain (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Filtered water throughout the trek
  • Mountain equipment and gear – tents, Sleeping Mats, mess tent, table and chairs
  • All national park gate fees for visitors and also for the supportive mountain crew (entrance, camping, rescue)

– Trekking Cost Excludes

  • International and local airfare.
  • Yellow fever vaccinations
  • Passport, Visa, and Travelers Insurance
  • Personal expenses eg. Laundry, beverages, etc.
  • Tips for the support team
  • Bed, Sleeping Bag, and walking Poles.
  • Private Toilet and hot shower tent
  • Local transport before & after the climb.
  • Optional tours not mentioned in the itinerary

– Enquiries and Requests

Enquire: Rongai Route - 6 Days Trek​