Rongai Route

We avoid the busy Marangu and Machame routes on Kilimanjaro, preferring to approach the mountain from the north by the more lightly used Rongai route. This route starts just south of the Kenya/Tanzania border and was closed to visitors for many years. Now open once again, we consider Rongai to be the best 6 days itinerary in terms of scenery and summit success (67% to Uhuru Peak and 85% to Gilman’s Point).

The 5 nights/6 days Rongai route begins in attractive farmland and delightful forest, with the possibility of some wildlife viewing, and as you climb higher opens out to give stunning views of the plains below. This trek includes an extra day to the standard 5 days itinerary in order to ensure maximum acclimatisation and give you the best possible chance of enjoying the magnificent scenery. Recent National Park statistics indicate that the chance of reaching the summit increases by at least 20% if an extra day is spent acclimatising. The deviation to Mawenzi Tarn is very beautiful and on a little-used trail through moorland. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective of Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north.

Regular weekly set departures throughout the year (except in the months of March, April, May & November), commencing in Arusha on Saturday, are guaranteed with a minimum of 3 and maximum of 15 trekkers. The ratio of guides to climbers is 2:1, which is the best on the mountain, ensuring an excellent level of service and safety, especially during the long and difficult summit day.

Down jackets, sleeping bags & liners, mattresses & walking poles, are available for hire.

Emergency oxygen is included as standard on all our treks, to be used in the event of an evacuation from the mountain.