“The Whiskey Route to the Roof of Africa”
The Rongai Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, close to the Kenyan border. It is one of the quietest and most scenic routes, offering trekkers a peaceful and unspoiled experience. Unlike other routes, Rongai provides gentle gradients and gradual ascents through diverse landscapes — from pine forests and heather moorlands to the alpine desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo.
The 7-day version includes an extra acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, giving climbers more time to adjust to the altitude and significantly increasing summit success rates. Ideal for trekkers seeking a less crowded, more remote route, Rongai offers clear mountain views, beautiful sunrises, and the thrill of summiting from the east side of the mountain.
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Tour Highlights
Day by Day Experience
Mount Kilimanjaro
Day 1: Rongai Gate (1,950 m) – Simba Camp (2,650 m)
Drive from Moshi or Arusha to the Rongai Gate on Kilimanjaro’s north side. Begin your trek
through farmland and pine forest, spotting wildlife along the way. Overnight at Simba Camp.
(Approx. 3–4 hours hiking)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)
Climb steadily through moorland with stunning views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields. The
trail passes through open landscapes before reaching Second Cave Camp. (Approx. 6–7
hours hiking)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp – Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m)
Continue ascending through rugged terrain and small valleys. The vegetation thins as you
enter the alpine zone, with views of Mawenzi rising ahead. Dinner and overnight at Kikelewa
Camp. (Approx. 5–6 hours hiking)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes leads to the spectacular Mawenzi Tarn Camp, set
beneath towering Mawenzi Peak. Afternoon at leisure for acclimatization and exploration.
(Approx. 3–4 hours hiking)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Spend the day resting and acclimatizing. You can hike higher up the ridges of Mawenzi for
better adjustment and stunning views. Dinner and overnight at Mawenzi Tarn Camp. (7-day
route only)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Cross the lunar-like “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo, a vast alpine desert with minimal
vegetation. Arrive at Kibo Hut for rest and an early dinner before the summit climb. (Approx.
5–6 hours hiking)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 7: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Start your summit attempt around midnight. Trek slowly to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), then
continue to Uhuru Peak for sunrise. After celebrations and photos, descend to Horombo Hut
for overnight rest. (Approx. 12–14 hours total hiking)
Popular Facilities
Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 8 (Optional for 8-Day Climb): Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Arusha/Moshi
Descend through the rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit
certificate before transferring back to your hotel. (Approx. 5–6 hours hiking)
Popular Facilities
● Park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
● Professional English-speaking mountain guide, cook, and porters
● All meals during the climb (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
● Accommodation in mountain tents
● Drinking water and hot beverages
● Transfers to and from the park gate
● Government taxes and fees
● Accommodation in Arusha/Moshi before or after the climb (unless requested)
● Sleeping bags and personal trekking equipment
● International and domestic flights
● Tanzania visa and travel insurance
● Tips for the guide, cook, and porters
● Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
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