7 Days - Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Rongai Route - African Landscape Adventures

7 Days – Mt. Kilimanjaro Trek Rongai Route

$ 1916

/pax

Overview

The Rongai Route offers a peaceful and less-traveled path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, beginning at Nale Muru near the Kenyan border and concluding at Marangu Gate. This 7-day trek is designed for gradual acclimatization, providing trekkers with an excellent chance to adapt while experiencing the mountain’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse terrains.

Starting in lush rainforests, the route unfolds into moorlands, alpine deserts, and finally the arctic summit zone. Along the way, adventurers can encounter an array of wildlife, such as colobus and blue monkeys, forest elephants, and vibrant bird species in the rainforest zone. Higher up, the moorland and alpine zones reveal unique flora like Giant Groundsels and Lobelias, along with sightings of sunbirds, hyraxes, and hardy birds such as the Alpine Chat and White-necked Raven.

With fewer crowds, rich biodiversity, and stunning ecological transitions, the Rongai Route promises a serene and rewarding journey to Kilimanjaro’s summit, making it an unforgettable adventure with African Landscape Adventures.

Itinerary

Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi

Welcome to your adventure with African Landscape Adventures! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our warm and welcoming representative will be there to greet you. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Moshi, nestled at an elevation of 890m (2,920ft), offering the perfect setting to begin your journey.

Once you’ve settled in, you’ll meet your guide for an in-depth climb briefing. This session is designed to provide all the essential details about your trek, ensuring you feel confident and well-prepared. Following the briefing, we’ll conduct a thorough equipment check to confirm you have everything required for a safe and successful climb. If needed, any missing items can be rented or purchased at our store.

The rest of the day is yours to unwind and acclimate. You may choose to explore the charming town of Moshi, relax, or make final preparations for the adventure ahead. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

DAY 1: NALE MURU GATE – SIMBA CAMP

Distance: 7 km / 5 mi
Duration: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 1,997m/6,552ft to 2,635m/8,645ft
Altitude Gained: 638m

Departing from Moshi for a scenic 4-5 hour drive through lush coffee plantations and the charming village of Nale Muru, leading to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. Once permits are secured, your journey begins with a trek through serene rainforest trails adorned with captivating woodland scenery. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s diverse flora, fauna, and wildlife. The day concludes at Simba Camp, located near the first cave at the moorland zone’s edge, offering breathtaking views of the expansive Kenyan plains.

DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP – SECOND CAVE CAMP

Distance: 5.8 km / 3.6 mi
Duration: 5–6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Elevation: 2635m / 8645ft to 3487m / 11,440ft
Altitude Gained: 852m

After a restful night and a nutritious breakfast, the journey continues through the captivating moorland landscape on a steady ascent. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Kibo and catch your first glimpse of the dazzling ice fields on the Eastern Crater rim. As you near the Second Cave, the moorland’s low-lying shrubs grow sparser, and the air begins to cool, signaling your progress into higher altitudes.

DAY 3: SECOND CAVE CAMP – KIKELEWA CAMP

Distance: 5.95 km / 3.7 mi
Duration: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3487m (11,440 ft) to 3675m (12,057 ft)
Altitude Gained: 188m

After enjoying breakfast and preparing for the day, the journey continues with a steady climb across the stunning moorland terrain, gradually approaching the striking jagged peaks of Mawenzi. This shorter hike brings you closer to the breathtaking Eastern ice fields. Be mindful of your body’s response to the altitude, and promptly inform your guide if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness.

DAY 4: KIKELEWA CAMP- MAWENZI TARN

Distance: 3.75 km / 2.3 mi
Duration: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3,675m (12,057ft) to 4,302m (14,114ft)
Altitude Gained: 627m

Embark on a rewarding yet challenging trek up steep, grassy slopes that offer breathtaking panoramic views. As you ascend, you’ll leave behind the vegetation zones and arrive at Mawenzi Tarn, a picturesque lake nestled in a stunning cirque beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore the surrounding area, allowing time for acclimatization to the altitude.

DAY 5: MAWENZI TARN – KIBO HUT

Distance: 8.9 km / 5 mi
Duration: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 4302m/14,114ft to 4714m/15,466ft
Altitude Gained: 412m

Traverse the striking lunar-like desert of the ‘Saddle,’ a vast plain stretching between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, to arrive at Kibo Huts situated at the base of Kibo’s crater wall. The rest of the day is dedicated to relaxation and acclimatization in preparation for the ultimate summit attempt during the night.

DAY 6: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT – HOROMBO HUTS

Distance Up: 4 km / 2.5 mi
Duration Up: 5-7 hours
Distance Down: 15.75 km / 9.8 mi
Duration Down: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit
Elevation Up: 4,750m (15,580ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft)
Altitude Gained: 1,145m
Descent To: 3,721m (12,208ft)
Altitude Lost: 2,174m

Start your trek early, between midnight and 2 a.m., as this is the most mentally and physically demanding section of your climb. The ascent begins with a challenging climb through loose scree, taking you toward Stella Point on the crater rim. Here, you’ll pause to marvel at a breathtaking sunrise before continuing the final hour-long push to Uhuru Peak, often crossing snow-covered terrain.

Standing at the summit the highest point in Africa brings an unmatched sense of achievement. Capture your unforgettable moment with photos before starting your descent. The steep path back down leads to Kibo Hut, where you’ll pause for lunch and a brief rest.

Continue your descent to Horombo Hut, navigating the loose gravel and volcanic ash with the help of gaiters and trekking poles. Rest and recover overnight at Horombo Hut, reflecting on your extraordinary accomplishment.

DAY 7: HOROMBO HUTS – MARANGU GATE

Distance: 20 km / 12.5 mi
Duration: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 3721m/12,208ft to 1905m/6,250ft
Altitude Lost: 1816m

After breakfast, enjoy a heartfelt appreciation ceremony and team bonding with your crew as you bid them farewell. Begin your descent, pausing at Mandara Huts for lunch. Take a moment to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, as this is where you part ways. Continue to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates to commemorate your achievement. The trail is wet, muddy, and steep, so gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended. From there, a vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi (approximately 45 minutes). Indulge in a well-deserved hot shower, enjoy a hearty dinner, and celebrate completing the Rongai Route 7-Day Kilimanjaro Trek.