The Rongai Route stands out as the sole path approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the border with Kenya. Increasingly favoured by trekkers, this route offers a unique experience with fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter, more secluded journey. Rongai’s gradual ascent presents an excellent alternative to the popular Marangu Route, catering especially to climbers in search of a remote adventure. Additionally, the northern location receives less rainfall, making it particularly suitable for treks during the rainy season.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by one of our friendly, kindly, experienced and very politely driver guides, after short introduction he will escort you to Arusha for your overnight stay on your reserved hotel/lodge. He will introduce you to this wonderful Tourism city and peaceful country. Our partners Weru weru River lodge is the one of the best affordable luxury Hotel with comfortable beds to relax, attractive garden and staffs with full customer cares. If time allow you will have a short city tour with our drive guide for free in Charge.
Relaxation
Mount Meru Hotel
This morning you will drive for approximately 2-3 hours to the Rongai Nalemoru Gate, near the Kenyan border.
After registering, begin your hike through the forest where you may see and hear wildlife, including black and white Colobus monkeys.
Enjoy lunch on the trail, before continuing to the first campsite.
Day two takes you through Kilimanjaro’s moorland with views of Mawenzi Peak ahead. The morning is steep and here you may begin to feel the altitude.
Explore the first cave before resting over lunch close to the second cave. The afternoon is gentler, contouring across the moorland to camp in a sheltered valley. Trekking time approximately 6-8 hours.
Today you will hike in the morning and rest in the afternoon, to help you acclimatize. The trail is relatively short but steep, and you are rewarded with superb all-around views and a tangible sense of wilderness. The campsite lies below Mawenzi Peak and offers stunning views of both Mawenzi and Kibo.
This extra day at Mawenzi Tarn is essential for acclimatization. Use this time to hike up toward Mawenzi Peak, which provides a splendid acclimatization opportunity and aid in your body’s adjustment to the higher altitude.
The hike offers stunning views and helps your body adapt to the thinner air, preparing you for the more demanding stages of your trek. After your hike, return to Mawenzi Tarn to rest and relax.
This rest day is crucial for building the stamina needed for the challenging trek ahead to Kibo Hut. Ensure you stay well-hydrated and focused, as this preparation will be key for your summit attempt.
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a trek across the vast, barren lunar landscape known as the “Saddle,” which stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is desolate yet mesmerizing, with rugged vistas and the summit looming ahead in the distance.
Though the trail is long, it maintains a gentle incline, allowing for a steady pace as you approach the final stage of your journey. Upon arriving at Kibo Hut, you’ll rest and enjoy an early dinner to conserve energy for the summit attempt.
Around midnight, begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. For the next six hours, hike by the light of your flashlight. The ascent to the crater rim is the most challenging part of the entire trek. The trail consists mostly of steep switchbacks, with a rocky section known as Jamaica Rocks to scramble over as you approach the crater rim at Gilman’s Point (5,756m).
The hike from Gilman’s to Uhuru Peak is a gradual climb and, as far as hikes go, not very difficult. The altitude however makes it feel long and tiring. After summit celebrations descend to Kibo Huts to eat, before continuing down to Horombo Huts to camp. Total trekking time is around 14 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day.
Mission accomplished! After breakfast, you’ll start your descent through the diverse moorland and lush rainforest zones, making your way back to Marangu Gate. As you trek downward, take in the final views of the landscape and reflect on your accomplishment.
Upon reaching the gate, you’ll be presented with your well-earned summit certificate as a testament to your achievement. From there, you’ll be driven back to Springlands Hotel in Moshi, where a hot meal, a refreshing shower, and a comfortable bed await.
Kibo Palace Hotel Arusha
