Rongai Route –
the quiet approach
The only route starting from the northern side of Kilimanjaro. Remote, unspoiled, and offering a true sense of adventure. Descend via Marangu for a complete circuit.
A different perspective
Rongai retains a pristine, untamed feel. As you ascend through pine forest and moorland, the dramatic eastern ice fields come into view – a sight few get to witness.
JRO → Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro airport. Your personal host welcomes you and transfers you to your luxury lodge in Arusha. Relax, meet your guide, and enjoy a welcome dinner. Overnight at Arusha Planet Lodge (BB).
Nare Moru → Simba Camp
After breakfast, drive to Nare Moru village. Trek through cultivated land and pine forest to Simba Camp (2,625m). First night on the mountain. (B,L,D)
Simba Camp → Kikelwa Camp
Ascend through heath and moorland, passing the Second Cave. Impressive views of Kibo's eastern ice fields. Reach Kikelwa Camp (3,600m). (B,L,D)
Kikelwa Camp → Mawenzi Tarn
Hike to the stunning Mawenzi Tarn (4,300m), nestled beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Afternoon exploration aids acclimatisation. (B,L,D)
Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Camp
Cross the alpine desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Reach Kibo Camp (4,700m). Rest and prepare for summit night. (B,L,D)
Kibo Camp → Uhuru Peak → Horombo
Start around midnight: ascend to Gilman's Point (5,681m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for the night. (B,L,D)
Horombo → Marangu Gate → Arusha
Descend through lush forest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificate. Transfer back to Arusha for a well‑deserved rest. (B,L)
Transfer to Kilimanjaro airport
After breakfast, transfer to JRO for your flight home – or extend your journey with a luxury safari or Zanzibar beach escape. (B)
📝 Important notes
- • Porter pack weight limit: 15kg (35lbs). Extra porter $8/day for overweight.
- • Extra luggage can be stored at your Arusha hotel (valuables on receipt).
- • Arrive a day earlier to acclimate: add $80 single / $100 double / $150 triple (BB).
- • Optional Arusha NP day trip: $180pp (2+ pax), plus $35 for hiking.
✓ Price includes
- — Arrival/departure transfers JRO–Arusha
- — Transport Arusha–mountain–Arusha
- — Park permits, camping fees, rescue, VAT
- — Guide, assistant guides, cook, porters
- — 2 nights Arusha Planet Lodge (BB)
- — All meals on mountain, boiled water
- — Sleeping tent, pad, dining tent, tables/chairs
- — Emergency oxygen, oximeter
- — Group average 4–6, max 10 climbers
✕ Price does not include
- — International airfare
- — Visa, passport, personal items
- — Climbing gear rentals
- — Tips for crew
- — Medical equipment (hyperbaric chamber $250/group, stretcher $140/group)
- — Portable toilet ($110/person or $180/group)
Book this 8‑day Rongai trek
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