The Rongai Route is a choice, for climbers on Mount Kilimanjaro due to its scenery and high success rate. Unlike routes it approaches the summit from the north. Offers a less crowded experience. Below is a 7 day itinerary for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route;
Day 1; Arrival in Tanzania
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi. This day is typically reserved for rest, acclimatization and a briefing session with your guides to prepare for the climb.
Day 2; From Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave (also known as First Cave)
- Elevation; From 1950m to 2600m
- Distance; Approximately 8 km
- Hiking time; Around 3 4 hours
After enjoying breakfast you will set off towards the Rongai Gate. Once you complete the registration process with park authorities your trek will commence through the rainforest towards the Rongai Cave.
Day 3; From Rongai Cave to Kikelewa Cave
- Elevation; From 2600m, to 3600m
- Distance; 11 km
- Hiking time; Roughly takes around 6 7 hours of hiking.
The path continues onwards from the cave leading through open terrain as you make your way, up towards Kikelewa Cave.
Day 4; tour from Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn
Altitude; From 3600m to 4300m
Distance; Covering a distance of 6 km
Hiking time; Estimated at around 3 4 hours
During this leg of the trek you will continue your ascent making your way towards the peaks of Mawenzi. Your camping spot for the night will be at Mawenzi Tarn, a location nestled beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi.
Day 5; Acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn
This particular day has been dedicated to acclimatization. You have the option to spend it resting at the campsite or exploring the surrounding areas, both of which will aid in allowing your body to adapt better to the altitude.
Day 6; Moving from Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Altitude; From 4300m to 4700m
Distance; Covering a distance of 9 km
Hiking time; Estimated at around 5 6 hours
You will traverse across a landscape that resembles that of the moons surface as you make your way between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks in order to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of this day will be spent resting and making preparations, for your summit attempt.
Day 7; Summit Day, from Kibo Hut to Horombo Hut;
Elevation; From 4700m to 5895m (reaching Uhuru Peak). Then descending to 3720m.
Distance; Climbing 6 km uphill. Descending 16 km.
Hiking time; 6 7 hours to ascend and 5 6 hours to descend.
The summit attempt usually begins around midnight. You’ll first reach Gillmans Point on the rim of the crater. Then continue onwards to Uhuru Peak, which’s the highest point in Africa. After spending some time at the summit you’ll make your way to Kibo Hut for some well deserved rest before continuing your descent towards Horombo Hut.
Day 8; From Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and then returning to Moshi;
Elevation; Descending from 3720m down to 1860m.
Distance; Covering a distance of 20 km.
Hiking time; Expected duration of 5 6 hours.
On your day of trekking you’ll pass through the moorland and rainforest zones as you make your way towards Marangu Gate. Here is where you’ll bid farewell to your mountain crew collect your summit certificates as a memento of your achievement and finally be transported back to your hotel, in Moshi.
Day 9; Leaving
Following your morning meal you have the option to relax and unwind, throughout the day discover Moshi or commence your return home. If you have any travel arrangements you might consider begining on a safari or exploring Tanzania’s national parks. Remember to heed your guides recommendations stay properly hydrated and allow yourself time to acclimate to the altitude. Each persons encounter on Kilimanjaro is special, in its way; therefore it is crucial to pace yourself and savor every moment of this tour.