kilimanjaro route

Rongai Route

The Rongai route is the only trekking trail that ascends the northern slopes of Tanzania's iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Considered one of the less frequented routes, Rongai presents trekkers with a unique and quieter ascent that winds through spectacular landscapes, remote valleys, and scenic vistas. This route is ideal for trekkers who seek a more off-the-beaten-path Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour experience, away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of the busier routes.

Rongai Route informations
  • Length of the route: 73 km
  • Difficulty Level: Moderately difficult
  • Duration: 6-7 days
  • Success Rates: Medium
  • Crowds: Low
  • Accommodation: camping
  • As mentioned already, it is the only Kilimanjaro Route that approaches from the northern side, close to Kenya and Tanzania border.
  • The climb is gentle and has a steady ascent and not a steep ascent.
  • Trekkers choosing the route get the clearest views of Kilimanjaro Mountain. This is because the northeast side of the mountain gets less moisture and encounters fewer showers of rain.
  • There are high chances of spotting wildlife like antelope, elephants, and buffalo along the trek to the summit.
  • The Kilimanjaro Rongai Route is a great option to trek during the rainy season as it receives fewer spots of rain.
  • Trekkers who are afraid of steep climbs can choose the Rongai as their Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours as this is the route that provides gradual and steady climb.
  • With a 2-day descent via the Marangu Route, the Rongai seems a little longer than other routes.
  • The Rongai is considered less scenic as compared to other Kilimanjaro Routes.
  • Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climb is a more expensive option. This is because this route gives you the chance to trek a little more than to get to the other side of the mountain than other routes.

After starting from the northern side of Kilimanjaro, the Rongai Route winds its way through pristine forests. Here trekkers can spot a variety of wildlife, including colobus monkeys and elephants. The trek then opens up to a scenic and remote valley that offers stunning views of the towering peak of Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro's secondary peaks. The trail then leads trekkers through the moorland zone, where unique plants like the giant lobelia and groundsels thrive in the thin air.

As the Rongai Route Kilimanjaro approaches the upper reaches, the landscape changes dramatically, giving way to alpine desert terrain. The final stretch to the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, is a challenging climb, but the panoramic views are more than worth the effort. Unlike some of the more popular Kilimanjaro Routes, Rongai offers trekkers a more intimate and exclusive experience. Also, being a moderately difficult route, Rongai is highly recommended for trekkers with minimum backpacking Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours experience.

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Rongai faq's

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Rongai Route Frequently Asked Questions are Full details & information about what you can expect in the climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

The Rongai Route is a popular trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It is known for its scenic beauty, remoteness, and the opportunity to see wildlife along the way.

The Rongai Route typically takes between 6-8 days, depending on the itinerary chosen.

The Rongai Route is considered to be a moderate difficulty level climb. It is less steep than other routes and offers a gentler ascent, making it a good option for novice climbers.

It depends on the medical condition. It's recommended to consult with your doctor before attempting to Climb Kilimanjaro and to inform your guide of any medical conditions you have.

It is customary to tip your Kilimanjaro Climbing Tours guide and porters at the end of the climb. The recommended tipping amount is usually around 10% of the total cost of the climb.

The Best Time To Climb Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route is during the dry seasons, which are January to mid-March and June to October.

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