Approach Kilimanjaro from the west and enjoy spectacular views. A slower ascent also provides a more convenient acclimatization.
The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds. Rongai has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes and therefore is recommended for those with less backpacking experience. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).
Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for nearly the entire way. Descent is made via the Marangu route.
Highlights:
- Summit Africa´s highest mountain
- Enjoy the most scenic route
- Stay in wood huts and tents
Your Guides
A team of experienced African guides are going to lead on this non-technical climb. Along the way, they will share their profound knowledge about mountaineering and the unique environment of Kilimanjaro.
Day 1: Arrival from Arusha or Moshi
Transfer to your accomodation in Moshi or Arusha — relax in the afternoon and regain some extra strength for the ascent — dinner at hotel
Overnight at Mti Mkubwa Camp
Overnight at Shira 1 Camp
Overnight at Moir Hut Camp
Day 5: Lava Tower / Barranco Camp
Breakfast at camp — continue to the east up ridge and climb Lava Tower called the “Shark’s Tooth” — reach the alpine zone and Arrow Glacier at about 16,000 ft (4.875m) and enjoy spectacular views into the western breach — lunch picnic break — descent to Barranco Camp at 13,066 ft (3.983m) — the dinner at camp — although you end up at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.
Overnight at Barranco Camp
Day 6: Karanga Camp / Barafu Camp
Breakfast at camp — continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall — lunch at Karanga Camp — ascent to Barafu camp at 15,239 feet (4.645 m) — dinner at camp — on cloudless days the two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo can already be seen from this position
Day 7: Kilimanjaro Summit
Summit day: early morning breakfast at camp — start the ascent to the summit around Midnight to 2am — ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point at 18.600 ft (5.670m) on the crater rim where you enjoy the probably most magnificent sunrise of your life — after another hour reach Uhuru Peak at 19,340 ft (5.895m) around noon — lunch picnic break at the summit — descent to Barafu hut and further down to Millenium Camp at 12,530 ft (3.820m) — dinner at camp
Overnight at Millenium Camp
Day 9: Departure from Arusha or Moshi
Breakfast at hut — descend through the montane forest to with good chance to spot black-and-white colobus monkeys in the dense forest — lunch picnic break — reach Mweka Gate at 5,423 feet (1.653 m) — transfer from the gate to your accomodation
End of Route
