Kilimanjaro trekking on Rongai route
Rongai route begins with (approximately) 4 hours, 4X4 rough drive to the eastern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The hike on the first day is very short to reach the first camp.
The trail is a gradual ascent which starts as easy hiking days within the rain forest (you may be lucky to see some wildlife) but follows with longer hiking days (mostly because of available water sources) and more weather exposed on crossing the saddle under Mawenzi peak. Great views of Ambosili National Park in Kenya
The route joins Marangu route at Kibo Hut. Here you rest before the summit ascent. The descent is also via Marangu route.
Camping is in designated campsites with long drop toilets. All water, including water for personal hygiene, is carried and heated by the porters. On the Marangu route descent there is access to basic toilet blocks, water taps and a communal dining room.
Rongai route: 8 days / 7 nights (6 mountain days)
Tour Ref: CP 3
Day 1: Arrive in Kilimanjaro for overnight. Hotel, bed and breakfast Day 2: There is a long 4X4 drive to reach Rongai gate for registration and start your kilimanjaro trekking through the montane forest to reach the first camp (1,800m). Day 3: Your hike takes you through open moorland to the second camp (3,480m. 3-4 hrs). An optional evening walk helps acclimatization. Day 4: An easy hike to the third camp (3,900m). with an optional acclimatization hike after lunch. Day 5: A steady hike to the camp at Kibo hut (4,750m, 4-5 hrs). After dinner, you will receive a summit briefing and prepare your equipment before resting. Day 6: The summit ascent starts around midnight. It is a steep climb to Gilman's Point (5,680m. 5-6 hrs) before the route flattens out along the crater rim. A further 1-2 hours should take you to reach your goal - Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After a short rest and snack on the top (it's mighty cold) you begin the descent to Kibo Hut for breakfast and a further rest before joining Marangu route to descend to the camp site at Horombo Hut (3,720m). Day 7: The return is a fairly easy hike via Marangu route down to the gate to collect certificates before transferring to the hotel for overnight (dinner not included). Day 8: Departure |
|
![]() |
To book a climb on this route go to the enquiry form and request Tour Ref: CP 3
Fitness preparation is important for a successful Mt Kilimanjaro climb
Take a look at our climbing Upgrade Service for this route
(Return to Kili trekking programs page)
Designed by Oraica Ltd. www.oraica.net




