The Rongai Route is one of the six official routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and is unique in that it approaches the mountain from the northern side, offering a different perspective compared to the more popular southern routes like Machame and Marangu. It is considered one of the easier and less crowded routes, making it a great choice for climbers seeking a more peaceful and scenic experience. While it is not as challenging as the Umbwe Route or the Machame Route, it still provides a rewarding journey and a chance to summit Africa’s highest peak.
The Rongai Route begins at the Nalemoru Gate, located on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, close to the Kenyan border. This route is typically less crowded because it is less accessible than other starting points, which allows climbers to enjoy a quieter, more intimate experience. The route is relatively straightforward and takes about 6 to 7 days to complete, with a steady and gradual ascent that allows climbers more time to acclimatize.
The first day of the climb involves a relatively easy hike through forested areas, where climbers will experience lush greenery and the opportunity to spot wildlife, including monkeys and birds. The path, which gradually ascends, leads to the first camp, Simba Camp, situated at 2,600 meters (8,530 feet). This first day is not too taxing, providing climbers with a gentle introduction to the trek.
On the second day, the route ascends through the moorland zone, with sparse vegetation and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The climb becomes steeper, but the pace remains manageable. By the end of the day, climbers will reach the Second Cave Camp, at an elevation of around 3,450 meters (11,320 feet). The camp offers magnificent views of the eastern ice fields of Kilimanjaro and is an excellent spot to rest and acclimatize.
The third day of the trek involves a steady ascent to the Kikelewa Cave Camp, located at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). This section of the route offers more dramatic landscapes, with rocky outcrops and panoramic views of the mountain. The terrain becomes rougher and more exposed, but the pace of the climb remains manageable. As with all the days, climbers should be mindful of their pace to avoid altitude sickness.
The fourth day is typically spent trekking to the Mawenzi Tarn Camp, situated at 4,300 meters (14,108 feet). This is a crucial point for acclimatization, as the elevation is significantly higher than the previous camps. The Mawenzi Tarn Camp is located near the base of Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s iconic features. The views here are striking, with sharp, jagged rocks and the stark beauty of the surrounding landscape.
On the fifth day, climbers continue their ascent to the final camp before the summit, called the Kibo Hut, situated at 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). This camp serves as a base for the final push to the summit. The altitude at Kibo Hut can be challenging, and climbers may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, so it is important to rest and hydrate well.
The final day involves the ascent to the summit, typically starting in the early hours of the morning to allow for a sunrise summit experience. Climbers ascend via the Gilman’s Point and then to the summit of Uhuru Peak, which stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). The climb to the summit is a long and grueling trek, but the reward of reaching the top is incomparable.
The Rongai Route offers a balance of scenic beauty, gradual acclimatization, and manageable difficulty. It is particularly suited for climbers who prefer a quieter, more remote experience. The route also offers a higher chance of success for summiting due to its slower ascent and ample time for acclimatization, making it a popular choice for those looking for a less demanding but equally rewarding Kilimanjaro climb.