Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route

Rongai is one of the routes to climb Mont Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania. It is a remote route, not so often used. It ranges second in ease of climbing.

The route consists of an approach from the north side of the mountain, which is less forestes, and a descent through the Marangu route. The Rongai route has different options, I describe here the one that takes Mawenzi Tarn. The 2nd day of this climb is very long, therefore it can be divided in two days. In this way, you would also get a better acclimatisation.

The portion that includes the ascent to the Uhuru Peak is the same than in the Marangu Route, that leaves from Kibo Hut.

During the trip in the mountain we will sleep in tents that the porters pitch. This hike is quite tough and steep, you need to be fit and used to walks in mountainous areas. A sleeping bag, walking poles and warm clothes are required.

Please find below the day to day program and itinerary.

Day 1.
Arrival at the Silver Palm hotel (B&B).

Day 2.
Driving around Kilimanjaro until Rongai Gate.
*3-4 h
*2100 m
Walking in the rain forest until Camp 1.
*4 h
*2800 m

Day 3.
Walking up crossing moorlands and giant heathers until Camp 2, close to the Kikelewa Cave.
*6 h
*3600 m

Day 4.
Walking towards Mawenzi’s jagged pinnacles, then camping by Mawenzi.
We go to Tarn Hut, note that this last section is quite steep.
*4-5 h
*4330 m

Day 5.
Gaining the Saddle, then walking across the scree desert until a camp which is near the Kibo hut.
*3-4 h
*4730 m

Day 6.
The day starts very early to reach the summit on steep scree up until Gillman’s Point (5 h, 5681 m) on the crater rim. Then we continue until the Uhuru Peak (1:30 h, 5895 m). Afterwards we descend to the camp, where we have for brunch and rest. Finally we go down until Horombo Hut. In total we will walk around 12 h.

Day 7.
Descent to Marangu gate (5 h), then driving back to your hotel (B&B).

Day 8.
Departure following breakfast.

If you are interested in climbing Kilimanjaro through the Rongai route or any other (Marangu, Machame or Lemosho route) please get in touch with me and let’s discuss about it. It will be my pleasure to help you organise this beautiful adventure.