The Rongai route is essentially one long climb with a very gentle gradient. In that sense, it's one of the easiest routes (even though no easy route exists!) It's the only route that starts on the northern side of the mountain. It's also one of the quietest ascent routes – it vies with the Northern Circuit for being the least-used ascent route.
The Rongai is a good option in our opinion if you want to avoid the steep Barranco Wall. While we generally suggest climbers wanting to avoid steep sections opt for the Northern Circuit, the Rongai is another great option, especially if you don't have the time and budget for the longer Northern Circuit.
During the ascent on the Rongai, you have lovely views to the north. You might well spot some large game from a distance in Kenya's Amboseli National Park, which dominates the plain to the north of the mountain.
The rainforest and moorland sections on the Rongai are very pretty. And you camp directly below beautiful Mawenzi Peak one night.
When you walk the Saddle, you have views to both the north and the south of the mountain!
The Rongai is similar to the Marangu route in terms of the absence of any 'climb high, sleep low' opportunity. This is why its summit success rate is only average. And it's also why we only offer the seven-day Rongai itinerary and not the six-day one, as an extra day is really needed to help you adjust to the increasing altitude.
The Rongai is also a good option if you need to trek Kilimanjaro during one of the rainy seasons, as the northern side of the mountain usually receives less rainfall than the southern slope.
You will meet our driver and pick you up from Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha airport and transfer you to your hotel. Pre-trek briefing at your hotel. You should be planning to arrive atleast one day before the start of the trek. Today we will spend in having a pre-trek briefing. We will also review your equipment and rent any equipment which is needed
Drive to the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru about 2 hours including a stop to get permits at Marangu. After signing in and preparing the porters, you will begin the hike on a wide path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.
Distance: 6km
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
The morning hike is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim.
Distance: 6km
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Head out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios nearby.
Distance: 9km
Walking Time: 2-3 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization.
Distance: 6km/4mi
Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent very early.
Distance: 9km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), commence the climb to the summit on steep and heavy scree or snow up to Gilman’s Point located on the crater rim (elev 5700m/18,700ft). Continuing, we now ascend to Uhuru Peak, which is the highest point in Africa. There are unbelievable views at every turn. Have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends and family. From here we descend, stopping for lunch and a rest at Kibo before continuing on to the Horombo encampment.
The beginning of this climb is done in the dark and requires headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is by far the most difficult part of the trek with many switchbacks. Going slowly “pole pole” and an optimistic attitude will get you there!
Distance: 6km up / 15km down
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours up / 6-8 hours down
Habitat: Alpine Desert
After breakfast, a steady descent takes us down through moorland to the Mandara Hut. Continue descending through lush forest path to the National Park gate at Marangu. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear, keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy
Distance: 20km
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Forest
The Northern Circuit Route is a scenic and less crowded trekking route on Mount Kilimanjaro. It's known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems, offering a longer and more gradual ascent compared to other routes.
The Lemosho route is one of the best routes for acclimatization. The route is less used and a beautiful way up to the Shira Plateau. The route is one of the few where groups may be accompanied on the first day by an armed ranger, as the forests around the Lemosho Glades are inhabited by buffalo, elephants, and other wildlife.
This is arguably the most beautiful Kilimanjaro route, and it’s very popular. It begins on the western slope and then skirts around the south of Kibo Peak. You descend the mountain’s southeastern slope via the Mweka route.
Fargin Safaris offers various travel experiences that highlight Tanzania’s rich culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.