Kilimanjaro Climb – Rongai route
Rongai is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the northeast and offers a remote journey through unspoiled rainforest and wilderness, far from crowds of the more popular southern routes. There is also a more ‘direct’ route taking just 5 days but we have chosen to focus on the ‘Kikelelwa’ route as it is much more scenic and gives you a better chance of making it to the top.
It is the only route where it’s possible to see wildlife in the first few days of trekking. It is also the only route to afford you such a close view of Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest peak, and a rewarding hike across the ‘Saddle’, the expanse between the Mawenzi and Kibo (Uhuru) Peaks. The ascent to Uhuru follows the Marangu route via Kibo Hut with the descent, also using the Marangu route, offering a different perspective. Whilst not having as much varied scenery as Machame or the western routes, Rongai is one of the easier climbs and is ideal for those looking for a remote hiking experience.
Leave Nairobi and drive along Mombasa Road to the Emali turn-off. Proceed to Kimana and Loitoktok. Overnight stay from within the vicinity of the magnificent Kilimanjaro.
Day 1: Rongai Gate (1950m) to First Cave Camp (2600m)
After breakfast, drive to the Rongai park gate for the registration process and begin your climb on the Rongai Route. The first day involves a relatively easy hike through the rainforest, and it takes around 4-5 hours to reach the First Cave Camp. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape and may have the chance to spot wildlife such as monkeys and birds. Once you reach the camp, you’ll have some time to rest and acclimatise to the altitude before continuing on the next day. It’s important to stay hydrated and take it easy on the first day to help prevent altitude sickness.
Day 2: First Cave Camp (2600m) to Third Cave Camp (3950m)
The second day of the Rongai Route involves a steep ascent through the moorland zone, with stunning views of Kibo and the surrounding landscape. You’ll hike past the Second Cave Camp and up to Kikelewa Camp, where you’ll have lunch and rest for a while. After that, you’ll continue to Third Cave Camp, which sits at an altitude of 3950m. The hike takes around 6-7 hours, and it’s important to take it slow and steady to help prevent altitude sickness. Once you reach Third Cave Camp, you’ll have some time to rest and acclimatise to the altitude before continuing on the next day. It’s also recommended to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Day 3: Third Cave Camp (3950m) to School Hut Camp (4750m)
The third day of the Rongai Route involves a steady ascent through the alpine desert and rocky terrain. You’ll start the day by hiking to the “Saddle,” a wide plateau that sits between Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. From there, you’ll continue to School Hut Camp, which sits at an altitude of 4750m. The hike takes around 4-5 hours, and you’ll need to take it slow and steady to help prevent altitude sickness. Once you reach School Hut Camp, you’ll have some time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude before attempting the final push to the summit. It’s important to stay hydrated and eat nutritious food to maintain your energy levels for the summit attempt. Additionally, make sure to follow your guide’s instructions and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Day 4: School Hut Camp (4750m) to Uhuru Peak (5895m) and Descend to Horombo Camp (3720m)
This is the most challenging and exciting day of the Rongai Route, as you’ll attempt to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll start your climb around midnight, hiking in the dark with headlamps to reach the summit at dawn. The route is steep and rocky, and the altitude makes it physically demanding. You’ll pass through several points, including Hans Meyer Cave, Gilman’s Point, and Stella Point, before reaching the summit of Uhuru Peak at 5895m. The breathtaking views from the summit will be worth the effort! After taking in the views and celebrating your achievement, you’ll begin your descent to Horombo Camp. The descent is steep and can be hard on your knees, so take it slow and steady. You’ll pass through several ecological zones, including moorland, heath, and rainforest, before reaching Horombo Camp at 3720m. The descent takes around 6–8 hours, and you’ll spend the night at Horombo Camp before continuing on to the gate the next day. Make sure to drink plenty of water, eat nutritious food, and get enough rest to help your body recover from the strenuous climb.
Day 5: Horombo Camp (3720m) to Marangu Gate (1980m) and Moshi
On the final day of the Rongai Route, you’ll descend from Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificates. The descent takes around 5–6 hours, and you’ll pass through the rainforest, which provides a stark contrast to the alpine desert and rocky terrain you encountered on the way up. Once you reach Marangu Gate, you’ll sign out and receive your certificates before continuing to Moshi, where you can celebrate your achievements and relax after the climb.
Mountains have their own climate on account of their height. Rain clouds can appear without warning and be gone hours later. An early morning frost is possible at any time of the year, and guests should bring a fleece and light rain jacket, although, during the heat of the day, shorts and T-shirts should suffice.
Sleeping bag: one rated for four (4) seasons is fine. The bag should be a snug fit since if it is too large, there will be more cool air for the body to warm
-
-
- Rain Trouser
- Rain Jacket [Poncho]
- Balaclava [Hat Woollen]
- Warm Clothes down jacket
- Thermal underwear
- Fleece Jacket
- Hiking Boots
- Gloves
- Walking Sticks
- Head Torch
- Sunglasses
- First Aid box
- Ruck Suck 65L (duffel bags are unacceptable) to be carried by porters
- Day Pack 35 [For your personal effects]
-
-
-
- Optional comfort accessories;
-
Walking poles, hot water bottle, Bivy bag
Wet wipes; are ideal for those who want to stay fresh but are unable to bear dips in the freezing mountain weather
4: Passport/Identification Card {ID}
5: Personal travel/ medical insurance
Options are, of course, many and varied, and in many cases, we can be flexible about the itinerary for accommodation facilities and the extension of the safari destinations.
