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On the mountain’s northeastern side, only the Rongai Route is accessible. Because it is the second-easiest route after Marangu and has incredible wilderness conditions, this route is becoming more and more popular.
Climbers who want to avoid the massive crowds of climbers on other routes are advised to take the Rongai Route. This route can be completed in 6 days and can be started from either the Tanzanian or Kenyan side of the mountain.
Only used to ascend the mountain, the Rongai Route eventually connects with the Marangu Route, which also leads upward. There are many caves along this route, some of which are used as lodging.
The Rongai Route, the only Kilimanjaro route that begins from the mountain’s north, is one of the least-used ascent routes.
The Rongai Route, which is north-facing and less steep, less congested, and drier than other routes, is quickly gaining favour with climbers seeking a distinctive climbing experience.
Day 1 – Moshi – Rongai Gate – 1st Caves Camp
After breakfast, a driver will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi, and
you be taken to the Marangu gate for the climber registration procedures. The
next step is a transfer overland to the Rongai Gate, a drive of about 2.5 hours. As
you make your way to 1st Caves Camp, your walk takes you past soaring
cornfields and a dense pine forest. You will spend the night here after arriving in
time for a hot dinner.
Day 2 – 1st Caves Camp – Kikelewa Cave
After a satisfying breakfast, you'll start the arduous ascent to Kikelewa Cave. You
can eat lunch en route at 2nd Caves Camp, and you'll be at Kikelewa in time for
a hot meal and some conversation around the fire. As the Tanzanian landscape
unfolds below and the stars appear overhead, you start to realize just how high
you are.
Day 3 – Kikelewa Cave – Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Your short but steep hike today will take you from Kikelewa at 3,600 meters to
Mawenzi Tarn Camp at 4,330 meters. Your surroundings today are scrubby
alpine moorland dotted with plants that are unique to Tanzania. A unique
camping experience can be had at Mawenzi Tarn, which offers a breathtaking
view and menacing stone towers.
Day 4 – Mawenzi Tarn Camp – Kibo Hut
To get to Kibo Hut, which is located in the Kibo Saddle between the Mawenzi and
Kibo peaks, you must hike for 4-5 hours today. You will experience the stark
beauty of true alpine desert during your hike today. The night before your summit
attempt, you'll spend it at Kibo Hut.
Day 5 – Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
Today, you’re getting an early start to the day—just after midnight! As you get
dressed and organize your daypack for the adventure ahead, your climbing team
will wake you up with a cup of hot tea and a light snack for energy. Take it slow;
you be hiking in complete darkness for the next 5-7 hours. This way, you get
to Stella Point just before dawn. Your next two hours of arduous hiking will take
you to Uhuru Peak, your ultimate destination. Standing at 5,985 meters, yoube
able to witness an amazing sunrise and enjoy the expansive view. You’ve
succeeded! Returning to Horombo Hut via Kibo Hut is the next step. This will
undoubtedly be one of the heaviest days of your life, requiring anywhere from 12
to 16 hours of hiking!
Day 6 – Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi
You have one last breakfast on the mountain today before descending to the
Marangu Gate, so today is a festive day. Although today walk is almost 20
kilometers, the steady downhill makes it much easier than the ascent. When you
arrive at the gate, you can celebrate with your porters and guides, give them tips
for their labor, and get your completion certificate. After that, your driver will drive
you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha so you can get some well-deserved rest.
