Tour Details
About the Rongai Route (6 Days)
The Rongai route ascends Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This route retains a sense of unspoiled wilderness and offers a different perspective of Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north.
This participation camping tour requires guests to assist with camp chores, creating a more immersive mountain experience. The Rongai Route is known for its gradual ascent and diverse landscapes, making it an excellent choice for those seeking adventure with good acclimatization opportunities.
Route Highlights:
- Northern approach with unique perspective
- Participation camping with immersive experience
- Gradual ascent with good acclimatization
- Less crowded route through wilderness
- Diverse landscapes and ecosystems
- Border location between Tanzania and Kenya
Difficulty Level:
ChallengingDay-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Elevation: 1,400m (4,593ft)
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you'll be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Briefing with your guide about the climb and equipment check. Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
Elevation: 1,860m to 2,700m (6,102ft to 8,858ft)
Distance: 8km (5 miles)
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
After breakfast, drive to Marangu Gate for registration and briefing. Begin your climb through the lush rainforest, home to colobus monkeys and various bird species. Arrive at Mandara Hut for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Mandara Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 2,700m to 3,720m (8,858ft to 12,205ft)
Distance: 12km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Continue through the rainforest and into the moorland zone. The vegetation changes dramatically as you gain altitude. Enjoy spectacular views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Arrive at Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Horombo Hut
Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft)
This is a crucial acclimatization day. Take a day hike to Zebra Rocks (4,000m) to help your body adjust to the altitude. Return to Horombo Hut for lunch and rest. This extra day significantly improves your chances of reaching the summit.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 3,720m to 4,703m (12,205ft to 15,430ft)
Distance: 10km (6 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Cross the alpine desert zone with its unique vegetation. The landscape becomes more barren as you approach Kibo Hut. Rest and prepare for the summit attempt. Early dinner and rest before the midnight start.
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Summit Day - Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 4,703m to 5,895m to 3,720m (15,430ft to 19,341ft to 12,205ft)
Distance: 22km (13.7 miles)
Hiking Time: 12-14 hours
Start the summit attempt at midnight. Climb through the darkness to Gilman's Point (5,681m) at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) - the highest point in Africa. Descend to Horombo Hut for rest and celebration.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate to Arusha
Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m (12,205ft to 6,102ft)
Distance: 20km (12.4 miles)
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
Final descent through the rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate and transfer back to Arusha for celebration dinner and hotel accommodation.
Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Price Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
- Professional mountain guide and assistant guides
- Porters (1 porter per 2 clients)
- Participation camping (mid-range and budget)
- All meals during the climb
- Park fees and rescue fees
- Transportation to/from the mountain
- Airport transfers
- Pre-climb briefing and equipment check
- Summit certificate
- Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
- Hotel accommodation in Arusha (2 nights)
Price Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal climbing equipment
- Tips for guides and porters
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate for the 6-day Marangu Route?
The 6-day Marangu Route has a success rate of approximately 85-90%, significantly higher than the 5-day version due to the extra acclimatization day.
What should I pack for the climb?
Essential items include warm clothing, good hiking boots, sleeping bag, headlamp, water bottles, and personal toiletries. We provide a detailed packing list upon booking.
Is altitude sickness common?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone. Our 6-day itinerary includes an acclimatization day to help minimize the risk. Our guides are trained to recognize and manage altitude-related issues.
What is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best times are during the dry seasons: January-March and June-October. These periods offer the clearest skies and most stable weather conditions.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be in good physical condition and able to walk 6-8 hours per day. Regular cardiovascular exercise and hiking practice are recommended before the climb.
Route Map
The Marangu Route follows a well-established path through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforest to alpine desert, culminating at Uhuru Peak.