6 days Rongai Route Mount kilimanjaro climbing Itinerary

ABOUT 6 DAYS RONGAI ROUTE

The 6 days Rongai route, is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds. Rongai has a more gradual slope than the mountain’s other routes. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation). Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.

The 6 days Rongai Route Climbing Kilimanjaro Trekking & Hikes. approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the south, beginning with a short drive from Moshi to Machame Gate. The path leads hikers through the rain forest to Shira Plateau. Here, many of Kilimanjaro’s routes converge. Then the route turns east and traverses underneath Kilimanjaro's Southern Ice Field on a path known as the Southern Circuit before summiting from Barafu. Descent is made via the Mweka route.

DAY O - Arrival - Kilimanjaro

Once you have arrived safely at Kilimanjaro airport you will be met by one of our friendly driver who will transfer you to White House Hotel in Moshi. Should you arrive early you can explore the small town of Moshi, which is only a short taxi ride away, or you can just relax at the lodge and get ready for the days ahead. You will also meet with one of our operations staff and Guide who will explain everything you need to know regarding your trek and check all your equipment.

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave

>>> We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.

  • Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft
  • Distance: 8 km/5 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Rain Forest

    •   Accommodation: Rongai Cave

    Day 2: Rongai Cave to to Second Cave

    We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.

  • Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft
  • Distance: 6 km/4 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Heath

  • Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
  • Elevation: 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft
  • Distance: 6 km/4 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Heath

    •   Accommodation: Second Cave

    Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

    >>> The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.

  • Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft
  • Distance: 5 km/3 miles
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

    •   Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn

    Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

    On a good firm path, you will cross the Saddle today. You will feel the altitude and might experience symptoms of altitude sickness – headache and nausea? Takes lots of fluid and keep going very slowly. You will hear your guide say pole pole – slowly slowly. One last tough section and you will be there. You will camp at School Hut tonight, but not before some dinner and hot chocolate. Get your daypack ready and go to bed early as you will be woken up at around 00:00 to start the final stretch to the summit..

    Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak

    Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

  • Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft
  • Distance: 6 km/4 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
  • Habitat: Arctic

  • Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
  • Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft
  • Distance: 16 km/10 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
  • Habitat: Heath

    •   Accommodation: Uhuru Peak

    Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

    On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.

  • Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
  • Distance: 20 km/12 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
  • Habitat: Rain Forest

    •   Accommodation: moshi

    The Trip Cost Includes

    • Guide
    • Park Fees
    • Tax
    • Meals according to the itinerary
    • Gate transfer
    • Crew wages
    • Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
    • Environment fees
    • During the climb you will spleep in Huts
    • 7 Brekafasts
    • 7 Brekafasts
    • 8 Lunches
    • 7 Dinners
    • Drinking Water
    • Guide
    • Porters
    • Cook

    The Trip Cost Excludes

    • Flights
    • Items of a personal nature
    • Laundry Services
    • Tips to mountain crew

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    6 Days rongai Route
    Price From
    USD 1,700 USD 1,500 Per Person
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    USD 1,500 Per Person
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    Trip Facts

    • 1-12 people
    • Moderate