9 Day Rongai Route Kilimanjaro

The 9-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Rongai Route is a less crowded and scenic option for summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, and is known for its gradual ascent, diverse landscapes, and lower traffic compared to other routes

Key Features of the Rongai Route:

• Less Crowded: The Rongai Route is one of the quieter routes on Kilimanjaro.
• Scenic Diversity: From rainforest to alpine desert and arctic zones.
• Gradual Ascent: Excellent for acclimatization, especially with the 9-day itinerary.
• Summit Success Rate: The extra acclimatization day increases your chances of reaching the summit.

Kilimanjaro Climbing – Rongai Route Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi/Arusha

• • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.

  • Transfer to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for an overnight stay.

  • Meet your guide for a pre-climb briefing and gear check.

  • Rest and prepare for the climb.

Day 2: Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,650m)

• • Drive to the Rongai Gate (approx. 2-3 hours).

  • Begin the trek through lush rainforest and pine plantations.

  • Reach Simba Camp for dinner and overnight.

  • Hiking time: 3-4 hours.

Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp (3,450m)

• • Continue ascending through moorland and heather zones.

  • Enjoy views of the plains below and the summit in the distance.

  • Arrive at Second Cave Camp for dinner and overnight.

  • Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Day 4: Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

• • Trek through alpine desert terrain with stunning views of the Eastern Icefields.

  • Arrive at Kikelewa Camp, a quieter and more remote campsite.

  • Hiking time: 5-6 hours.

Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)

• • Ascend to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located near the base of Mawenzi Peak.
  • The landscape becomes more rugged and barren.
  • Acclimatize and enjoy breathtaking views of Mawenzi and Kibo.
  • Hiking time: 4-5 hours.

Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp

• • Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude.

  • Optional short hike to explore the area or rest at camp.

  • This day is crucial for improving your chances of summiting successfully.

Day 7: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut (4,700m)

• • Trek across the lunar-like Saddle Plateau between Mawenzi and Kibo.

  • Arrive at Kibo Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt.

  • Rest early in preparation for the midnight summit push.

  • Hiking time: 5-6 hours.

Day 8: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

• • Begin the summit attempt around midnight.

  • Trek through steep scree slopes to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim.

  • Continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

  • Descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for overnight.

  • Hiking time: 12-16 hours (summit and descent).

Day 9: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Return to Moshi/Arusha

• • Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate.

  • Receive your summit certificate and celebrate your achievement.

  • Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-deserved rest.

  • Hiking time: 5-7 hours.

Includes

• • 3 meals a day
  • 2 nights of accommodation in Moshi, breakfast included
  • Airport Pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport
  • All Ground Transfers
  • Accommodation while trekking
  • National Park Entry Fees
  • Fully-licensed, English-speaking guide
  • Porter service on the trek
  • First aid kit
  • Trip completion certificate
  • Farewell Dinner