All year
7 Days / 6 Nights
Kilimanjaro international Airport
Marangu Gate, Mandara Hut, Horombo Hut, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak, Horombo Hut, Marangu Gate
The 7-day Rongai Route is a scenic and less crowded route to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Starting on the northern side of the mountain, close to the Kenyan border, this route offers a unique wilderness experience, passing through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. It is known for its gradual ascent, making it a great option for climbers seeking a more comfortable trek.
Compared to other routes, Rongai is less crowded, offering a quieter and more peaceful trekking experience.
The Rongai Route's gradual elevation gain reduces the risk of altitude sickness, providing trekkers with a higher chance of success.
This route passes through remote wilderness areas, showcasing varied landscapes from rainforests to the unique desert-like Saddle.
You’ll have the chance to spot wildlife such as buffalo and colobus monkeys, which are rare on other Kilimanjaro routes.
After arriving at the Airport, you will be picked up by a Nafika tours representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later on, you will enjoy dinner with your group before being briefed on the trek followed by an equipment check to make sure you have all the necessary mountain gear. We can organize the rental of any missing equipment should it be needed.
After breakfast, you will be picked up at the hotel around 8:00 am and driven to the village of Nale Moru for the starting point of the Rongai route. The first stage of the trek is through farmland and pine forests. You may have chance to see the beautiful Colobus monkeys or if you’re lucky enough, elephants or buffalos. Our first camp will be the Simba Camp located at the edge of the moorland zone at 2625m.
The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave Camp located in the moorland zone providing superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
Leaving the pine forest behind us, we carry on with a steady ascent walking though the moorland. There are superb views of the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim of Kibo, the highest of the three volcanoes which form the mountain range. We will leave the main trail and strike out across moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, the second of Kilimanjaro’s volcanoes. We will set up camp today in the sheltered valley near Kikelewa caves at 3630m
This morning we have a short but steep ascent up grassy slopes which is rewarded by a superb view of the Kenyan plains to the north. Shortly after we leave vegetation behind reaching our next camp at Mawenzi Tarn Hut, which sit directly below the towering cliffs of Mawenzi. This afternoon you have chance to rest or explore the surrounding area to aid acclimatization.
We leave our campsite and cross the lunar desert of the ‘saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo. With the summit of Kilimanjaro in the background and our trail to the high camp stretched out before our eyes we truly get to realize how spectacular this place is. Upon reaching our camp the remainder of the day will be spent resting in preparation of the final ascent after a very early night!
Today is “The Big Day” – the summit stage. You will begin your final ascent around midnight which will be long and strenuous. Passing the Hans Meyer Cave at 5220m, the climb slowly but surely goes upwards. At sunrise, you will reach Gillman’s Point (5681m) – the crater rim of Kilimanjaro – where the sun will slowly start to warm up the land. You will have soon forgotten the cold of the night and after a further hike of 1 – 2 hours, you will reach Uhuru Peak at 5895m. On your return to Kibo Hut, a warm meal awaits you followed by a 1 – 2 hour break before proceeding back down to Horombo Hut.
The last stage passes through the heath and moor zone to the Mandara Hut (2700m) where a warm lunch is waiting for you. Continuing through the tropical rainforest and after a total time of 6 hours trekking, we will be back at the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate (1860m). After saying goodbye to your mountain guides, a private car will then take you back to your hotel where you can enjoy the warm shower you have been craving. It’s definitely time to celebrate!
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
| No of Pax | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2100 USD |
| 2-4 People | $1950 USD |
| 5-9 People | $1850 USD |
| 10+ People | $1700 USD |
At Nafika Tours, we bring your dream trip to life! Our sample itineraries are fully customizable to suit your unique preferences. Whether you seek for Kilimanjaro adventure, Safari, culture, or relaxation, our dedicated specialists will collaborate closely with you to design a one-of-a-kind journey tailored just for you. With expert guidance and unparalleled flexibility, we ensure every moment of your trip reflects your vision, making your African adventure truly unforgettable.
Discover what our happy clients have to say about their adventures with us. Their stories and experiences highlight our commitment to unforgettable journeys!
