Relaxing by the pool, with the vast savanna stretching out before you
"Endless blue ocean in Zanzibar, a true tropical paradise
Chasing the sunset in the savanna, with the Land Cruiser as your front-row seat
Mount Kilimanjaro, towering above the plains in all its majestic glory
"In the heart of the savanna, a Land Cruiser surrounded by roaming buffalo
Elephant gracefully drinking from the waterhole, a moment of serenity in the wild
Explore Africa’s Wild Heart
Tailored Safaris, Timeless Memories
Enjoy safaris and nature
Dive into the Tanzanian culture
Rongai Route: 7 Days / 6 Nights
The Rongai Route is renowned for its remote trails and scenic landscapes, offering a less crowded yet rewarding adventure to Kilimanjaro's summit.
About the Rongai Route
The Rongai Route is the only trail starting from the northern side of Kilimanjaro, offering a unique perspective and spectacular views. It is ideal for those seeking a quieter trekking experience.
Distance: Approximately 73 kilometers (45 miles).
Duration: 7 days and 6 nights, allowing excellent acclimatization.
Starting Point: Rongai Gate, located near the Kenyan border.
Trek Highlights
- Remote and Quiet: Escape the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the northern slopes.
- Scenic Diversity: Witness breathtaking landscapes, from dry savannah to lush rainforest.
- High Success Rate: Gradual ascent and acclimatization improve summit chances.
- Professional Team: Experienced guides, porters, and cooks ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.
7 Days / 6 Nights Itinerary
Day 1: Trek from Rongai Gate (1,950 meters) to Simba Camp (2,600 meters).
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 2: Ascend to Second Cave (3,450 meters) with stunning views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields.
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours | Distance: 11 km (7 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Trek to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters), passing through alpine vegetation.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Ascend to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 meters) and spend time acclimatizing.
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Cross the lunar desert to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters) and prepare for the summit push.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6: Early morning summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), then descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters).
Hiking Time: 12-14 hours (summit and descent) | Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles) | Habitat: Arctic and Moorland
Day 7: Final descent to Marangu Gate (1,860 meters), where you'll receive your summit certificate.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles) | Habitat: Rainforest
Success Rates
7-Day Itinerary: Approximately 90-95% success rate for trekkers who prepare well and follow proper acclimatization protocols.
What's Included
- Two nights at budget Hotel in Moshi (double or triple occupancy) before and after the climb.
- First night includes breakfast; last night includes dinner and breakfast.
- Qualified, experienced guides and mountain crew (guides, porters, cooks, and waiters).
- Salaries for all crew members.
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
- Hut and camping fees.
- Rescue fees (mandatory per park regulations).
- High-quality tents, foam sleeping pads, and cooking equipment.
- Complete cutlery and crockery.
- Pulse oximeters for daily health monitoring.
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Boiled drinking water on the mountain.
- Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfers to and from the Marangu Gate.
- Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
What's Not Included
- Single room supplement at budget Hotel.
- Tips for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal climbing gear (e.g., sleeping bags). Rental options available.
- Car supplement of USD $145 for Lemosho, Rongai, or Shira Routes (if applicable).
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks).
- Emergency oxygen.
- Additional activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included.
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- International and domestic flight tickets.
Rongai Route: 7 Days / 6 Nights
What Our Rongai 7-Day Trekkers Say
"The Rongai Route offered a serene and breathtaking experience. The remote trails, combined with the expert guidance from Via Africa Expeditions, made this 7-day trek unforgettable. Reaching the summit was the highlight of my life!" - Emily R.
"I loved the peaceful and scenic paths of the Rongai Route. The team from Via Africa Expeditions ensured we were well-prepared and cared for every step of the way. A unique adventure for anyone wanting to climb Kilimanjaro!" - Michael T.
"Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The incredible landscapes and the professionalism of Via Africa Expeditions made the journey both enjoyable and successful. Highly recommended!" - Sophie L.
"The Rongai Route exceeded all my expectations. Its remote beauty and the exceptional support from Via Africa Expeditions made this a trek I’ll never forget. I can’t thank the team enough for their guidance and encouragement!" - Daniel B.
Choose Your Lemosho Trek Duration
Experience the Machame Route with the perfect trek duration. Select the 7-days adventure to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro!
"Absolutely the best safari experience! Unforgettable from start to finish." – John Doe
"Incredible views, amazing guides, and a truly unique adventure." – Jane Smith
"Highly recommend! Everything was beyond our expectations." – Michael Brown