About Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Discover the Magic of Kilimanjaro’s Rongai Route with Lyimo Expeditions

Hello adventurers! Are you ready to conquer the Roof of Africa? At Lyimo Expeditions, we bring you the magic of Mount Kilimanjaro through the enchanting Rongai Route, one of the less-trodden paths that promises both solitude and stunning vistas. Buckle up as we take you on a virtual journey through this incredible route, and convince you why your next Tanzanian adventure should be with none other than Lyimo Expeditions!

The Rongai Route: A Hidden Gem

Tucked away on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro, close to the Kenyan border, the Rongai Route offers a unique climbing experience. Unlike the more popular and crowded routes, Rongai provides a quieter, more intimate journey to the summit. This path is perfect for those looking for a serene climb, filled with breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Why Choose the Rongai Route?

Scenic Beauty: The Rongai Route is renowned for its stunning views. Starting from the north, the trail offers panoramic vistas of Kenya and Tanzania, including the picturesque Amboseli National Park.
Less Traffic: Unlike other routes that can get quite congested, Rongai is less frequented, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of Kilimanjaro without the hustle and bustle of large crowds.
Gentle Ascent: The Rongai Route is known for its gradual and gentle ascent, making it an excellent choice for climbers with varying experience levels. This consistent climb allows for better acclimatization and increases the chances of a successful summit.
Diverse Ecosystems: From lush rainforests at the base to arid, alpine deserts near the summit, the Rongai Route offers an incredible range of ecosystems, giving you a glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.

The Journey Begins: Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly Lyimo Expeditions team and transported to your hotel in Moshi. Take this time to relax, and get a good night’s rest; your adventure is just beginning!

Day 2: Moshi to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 2,020m to 2,650m
Distance: 8km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Your journey starts with a scenic drive to the Rongai Gate, where you’ll complete registration formalities. From here, the trek begins through lush farmlands and pine forests, gradually ascending to Simba Camp. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys and other wildlife along the way!

Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Elevation: 2,650m to 3,450m
Distance: 8km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Today’s trek takes you through heather and moorland, with stunning views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim. Arriving at Second Cave Camp, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and acclimatize.

Day 4: Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 3,450m to 3,600m
Distance: 9km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

As you leave Second Cave, the landscape changes dramatically to rocky and barren terrain. You’ll climb steadily towards Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley with striking giant senecios.

Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
Distance: 6km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Today’s trek is relatively short but steep, taking you up the grassy slopes to Mawenzi Tarn Camp. Situated at the base of the dramatic Mawenzi spires, this camp offers some of the most spectacular views on the mountain.

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
Distance: 9km
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Crossing the lunar desert of the "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo, you’ll make your way to Kibo Hut. This final camp before the summit push provides a chance to rest and prepare for the challenging climb ahead.

Day 7: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) to 3,720m
Distance: 22km
Hiking Time: 10-15 hours

Summit Night! You’ll start the ascent around midnight, climbing through the darkness with your headlamps guiding the way. The climb to Gilman’s Point is steep and arduous, but the reward is a magnificent sunrise as you reach the crater rim. From here, it’s a gradual trek to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.

After celebrating your achievement and taking in the breathtaking views, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, before continuing down to Horombo Hut.

Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,720m to 1,880m
Distance: 20km
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

Your final day on the mountain takes you through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Once there, you’ll receive your summit certificates and be transferred back to Moshi for a well-deserved rest.

Day 9: Departure

After a hearty breakfast, our team will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. As you bid farewell to Tanzania, you’ll carry with you the memories of an unforgettable adventure.

Why Book with Lyimo Expeditions?

Expert Guides and Support Staff

At Lyimo Expeditions, our experienced guides are not just knowledgeable about Kilimanjaro, they are passionate about ensuring you have the best possible experience. Trained in mountain safety and first aid, they will support and motivate you every step of the way.

Quality Equipment and Services

We pride ourselves on providing top-notch equipment to ensure your comfort and safety. From high-quality tents and sleeping bags to delicious, nutritious meals prepared by our skilled chefs, we’ve got you covered.

Personalized Experience

We understand that every climber is unique, which is why we offer personalized itineraries and services to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time climber, we will tailor your experience to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey.

Commitment to Sustainability

At Lyimo Expeditions, we are committed to responsible tourism. We work closely with local communities and adhere to strict environmental guidelines to minimize our impact on the mountain. By choosing us, you are supporting sustainable practices and helping to preserve Kilimanjaro for future generations.

Customer Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our happy clients have to say:

"Climbing Kilimanjaro with Lyimo Expeditions was an experience of a lifetime. The guides were professional, the food was amazing, and the views were out of this world. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to help me reach the summit!" – Sarah, USA

"The Rongai Route was the perfect choice for our Kilimanjaro climb. It was less crowded, and the scenery was incredible. Lyimo Expeditions made sure every detail was taken care of, and we felt safe and supported throughout the journey." – Johan, Germany

Ready to Book Your Adventure?

The adventure of a lifetime awaits you on Kilimanjaro’s Rongai Route. With its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a higher chance of a successful summit, this route is the perfect choice for your Kilimanjaro climb. And with Lyimo Expeditions, you can rest assured that you will be in the best possible hands.

So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today to book your Kilimanjaro climb and Tanzanian safari. Reach us at info@lyimoexpeditionskilimanjaro.com or call us at +255718442953. Let’s make your dream of standing on the Roof of Africa a reality!

Happy trekking,
The Lyimo Expeditions Team