Rongai in 6 days
Duration - 6 days
The Rongai Route is one of the easiest and most scenic routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a high success rate for trekkers.
Starting on the northern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border, this route is among the least traveled, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter and more pristine experience. The descent follows the Marangu Route on the southern side, giving climbers the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro from multiple vantage points.
The journey to the trailhead begins with a 3-hour drive from Moshi, passing through picturesque villages and lush coffee plantations. Along the way, climbers stop at Marangu to register for climbing permits, adding a layer of convenience to the adventure.
For those traveling from Kenya, the Rongai Route is easily accessible from Amboseli National Park. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, including border crossing formalities. To ensure a smooth process, climbers are required to submit passport copies in advance.
Why Choose the Rongai Route with Lavatoweradventure?
Exclusive Wilderness Experience: Enjoy a serene trek through untouched landscapes, far from crowded trails.
Stunning Wildlife Encounters: The northern side of Kilimanjaro is known for unique flora and fauna, with a chance to spot wildlife along the way.
Expert Guides and Support: Our experienced guides ensure your safety, success, and an unforgettable journey.
Flexible Access Points: Options to start from Moshi or Kenya for added convenience.
Start planning your 5-day camping safari adventure with Lavatoweradventure, your trusted partner for Kilimanjaro trekking and Tanzanian safaris.
Contact us today to turn your dream adventure into reality!
Itinerary:
Day 0: Pre-trek Briefing
If you’ve opted for optional airport transfers, Lavatoweradventure will pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
Upon arrival, we’ll have a pre-trek briefing at your Moshi hotel. We’ll go over your itinerary, review essential hiking gear, and rent any equipment you might need. Plan to arrive at least one day before your Kilimanjaro adventure begins!
Day 1: Hotel to Simba Camp
After breakfast, drive through the scenic landscapes of Tanzania to Nale Moru village (2 hours, including a stop at Marangu to obtain permits). Begin the trek along a picturesque path through maize and potato fields, then transition into the serene pine forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way! The trail gently climbs through lush forest before reaching the moorland zone at Simba Camp, where expansive views of the Kenyan plains await.
Elevation: 2000m/6560ft to 2650m/8700ft
Distance: 6km/4mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
Today’s trek includes a steady ascent to Second Cave. The trail opens up with stunning views of Kibo Peak and the glistening Eastern Ice Fields on Kilimanjaro's crater rim.
Elevation: 2650m/8700ft to 3450m/11,300ft
Distance: 6km/4mi
Walking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Second Cave to Third Cave
Continue your hike from Second Cave to Third Cave, crossing semi-desert landscapes. The terrain changes, and the views of Kilimanjaro’s summit become more breathtaking.
Elevation: 3450m/11,300ft to 3880m/12,700ft
Distance: 9km/5mi
Walking Time: 2–3 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Third Cave to Kibo Hut
Hike to Kibo Hut, situated at the base of the Kibo Crater Wall. Rest and acclimatize in preparation for the early morning summit attempt.
Elevation: 3880m/12,700ft to 4750m/15,600ft
Distance: 5km/3mi
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Horombo Hut
At midnight, embark on your final ascent to the summit! The steep trail leads to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim (5700m/18,700ft), and then to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa (5895m/19,340ft). Celebrate your achievement with spectacular views of the Tanzanian landscape! Descend to Horombo Hut for overnight rest.
Elevation: 4750m/15,600ft to 5895m/19,340ft, then down to 3700m/12,200ft
Distance: 6km/4mi up / 15km/9mi down
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours up / 6–8 hours down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Moshi Hotel
After breakfast, descend through the moorland and rainforest to Mandara Hut and Marangu Gate. A Lavatoweradventure vehicle will meet you at the gate for your transfer back to Moshi.
Elevation: 3700m/12,200ft to 1700m/5500ft
Distance: 20km/12.5mi
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Habitat: Forest
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions
Professional, experienced mountain guides (certified Kilimanjaro experts)
Quality mess tents, sleeping tents, and mattresses
Fresh, nutritious meals prepared on-site
Kilimanjaro summit certificate
All park fees, conservation fees, and rescue fees
Transfers to and from Moshi
Emergency oxygen cylinder and first aid
Exclusions
Tanzania Visa
International and domestic flights
Personal trekking gear (available for rent)
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Travel insurance
BOOK WITH US
Ready to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro? Fill out the form below to start planning your unforgettable trek with Lava Tower Adventures. Our expert team will guide you every step of the way to ensure a safe and memorable experience. Let's make your dream climb a reality!
Lavatower Adventure
United Republic of Tanzania Kilimanjaro, Moshi, Soweto, Khambaita