RONGAI ROUTE: THE ONLY ROUTE FROM THE KENYA’S SIDE

The Rongai Route is the sole trail that begins from the northeastern side of the mountain, adjacent to the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The Rongai Route maintains an aura of untouched nature. This route begins on the Kenyan side of the mountain, providing a unique viewpoint that contrasts with the more frequent routes.

The Rongai Route, characterized by its secluded environment, ranks as one of the least frequented trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. People seeking a more moderate ascent recognize the trail for its steady incline. The trail presents breathtaking vistas of the expansive Kenyan plains beneath, enhancing its appeal. At the Kibo Camp, the Rongai Route merges with the Marangu Route, offering a distinctive chance for climbers to engage with those who have chosen an alternate route to the summit. The last stretch to the peak from Kibo Camp is tough yet fulfilling, offering climbers the chance to experience the stunning sunrise across the African landscape.

The Rongai Route stands out as the driest option for reaching the summit, making it perfect for climbing throughout the year. The majority of rainstorms typically remain on the southern side of the mountain, enabling hikers in Rongai to experience comparatively dry and consistent weather during their climb.

Additional benefits of selecting the Rongai Route encompass the opportunity to observe wildlife, such as Colobus monkeys, during the initial days of the ascent. The organized campsites along the route guarantee that hikers maintain a steady pace on the trail every day. As the path ascends on the north side and descends on the south side, adventurers experience the diverse views of Kilimanjaro from various angles.

RONGAI ROUTE MAP

The minimum duration for the Rongai Route is six days, but extending it to seven days facilitates better acclimatization and enhances the likelihood of a successful summit attempt. Moreover, opting for the extended seven-day plan reduces the risk of altitude sickness due to the gradual elevation gain. When given ample time to adjust, hikers are more inclined to arrive at the peak feeling robust and well

KILIMANJARO HIGHLIGHTS

Most famous

  • Highest free mountain
  • Full of biodiversity
  • Conquering the peak

When To Climb

  • Dry Season December-March & June-October
  • Wet Season Late March-May and November

Essential details

  • Passport& Valid Visa
  • Eligible: 10 – 70 Yrs
  • Challenge: Altitude

MOUNT KILIMANJARO

SUMMERY OF THE RONGAI ROUTE

The minimum number of days to summit Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route is six, but many hikers choose to take an extra day for acclimatization to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

This is the sole route approaching the mountain from the northern side, renowned for its pristine wilderness, providing a more isolated and tranquil trek.

  • The ascent is gradual, featuring a consistent incline instead of a sharp rise.
  • Hikers who choose the path enjoy the most unobstructed views of Kilimanjaro Mountain. The northeast side of the mountain receives less moisture and has fewer rain showers.
  • There is a strong likelihood of encountering wildlife such as antelope, elephants, and buffalo during the ascent to the summit.

Although you can climb it all year round, the rainy season in April and May is especially beneficial because it stays drier than other paths.

No, the Rongai Route is one of the less frequented routes on Kilimanjaro, enabling climbers to often enjoy solitude during substantial parts of their trek.

The Machame route provides ideal opportunities to "climb high, sleep low," aiding in better acclimatization. The seven-day option offers superior acclimatization profiles. This longer itinerary allows climbers to gradually ascend to higher altitudes, giving their bodies more time to adjust to the decrease in oxygen levels

Because it experiences less rainfall, the Rongai Route is a wonderful option for trekking in the rainy season.

Trekkers who are apprehensive about steep ascents can opt for the Rongai route, as it offers a gradual and consistent ascent

The Rongai route appears to take a bit more time than others, with a descent spanning 2 days along the Marangu Route.

Because of its slow and steady profile, many trekkers and guides consider Rongai to be one of the easiest routes up Kilimanjaro. The 7-Day Route has an impressively high summit success rate, averaging around 80%–90%.

Quick FAQs about the Rongai Route

  • Distance of the route : 73 km
  • Challenge Level Fairly challenging
  • Duration:6-7 days
  • Success Rates Average
  • Crowds: Low
  • Accommodation: Camping

UPCOMING GROUPS

JOIN OUR UPCOMING GROUPS OF TREKKERS

Are you seeking fellow adventurers to accompany you on a Kilimanjaro trek? Your search ends here! Here is a schedule for the upcoming Kilimanjaro treks available for you to join. Select from an array of dates and routes that align with your preferences and schedule.

Dec 31st – 09th Jan, 2025

8 Days Lemosho Route

Jan 2nd – Jan 10th 2025

7 Days Machame Route

Jan 6th – Jan 16th 2025

9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Jan 15th – Jan 24th2026

8 Days Lemosho Route

Jan 31st – Feb 5th 2025

6 Days Marangu Route

Feb 5th – Feb 14th 2025

8 Days Lemosho Route

Feb 15th – Feb 25th 2025

9 Days Northern Circuit Route

Feb 21st – Mar1st2025

7 Days Machame Route

EXPECT THE BELOW WEATHER IN THESE MONTHS

JANUARY

Tanzania experiences a short dry season, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C) on average. The weather is generally warm and sunny, making it an ideal time to visit the country's many national parks and wildlife reserves. This is also a calving period in Ndutu, where visitors can witness the incredible sight of wildebeests and zebras giving birth to their young

FEBRUARY

In February, the weather in Tanzania is usually warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people consider this month to be the perfect time to visit the country, as the rainy season has ended and vibrant greenery abounds in the scenery. Additionally, now is an ideal time for Kilimanjaro treks, as the clear skies offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

MARCH

During this month, temperatures are typically quite warm, with highs reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. By the start of March, the sunny season in Tanzania is coming to a close, making way for the arrival of occasional rain showers as the country enters the wet season. It's a wonderful time to enjoy outdoor activities and soak up the sun at the beach.

APRIL

April marks the start of the long rainy season in Tanzania, as temperatures begin to cool down and the country transitions from the hot and dry season. Now is the perfect time for nature lovers to visit, as the scenery transforms into a vibrant and verdant paradise. It is also the best time for bird-watching trips

MAY

May, like April, is considered part of Tanzania's wet season. May begins with a lot of rain, but becomes drier as June approaches. In May, the Great Migration migrates from the southern Serengeti to the west. The lush green vegetation sometimes make it difficult to spot animals, but they also provide excellent photo opportunity.

JUNE

June in Tanzania is typically the start of the dry season, with clear skies and sunny days. With a temperature between 65°F and 80°F, it is the perfect weather for exploring Tanzania's stunning national parks and wildlife reserves. The last weeks of the month are when the migration of wildebeests and zebras begins in the Serengeti, making it an ideal time to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.

JULY

July is considered to be the peak of the dry season in Tanzania, making it an ideal time for tourists to visit. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the crowds, July is a wonderful time to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate in search of greener pastures.

AUGUST

August is one of the best times for tourists to visit Tanzania, as it falls during the dry season. Expect clear skies and warm temperatures, perfect for exploring the country's stunning national parks and wildlife reserves. It's also a wonderful time to visit Zanzibar.

SEPTEMBER

This season is mild and dry, making it ideal for exploring these destinations' gorgeous landscapes, wildlife, and beaches. Late September is the start of shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and reduced prices, making it a wonderful time to visit to escape peak tourist season.

OCTOBER

The weather is generally warm and sunny, with occasional showers that help to cool things down. This time of year is also ideal for wildlife viewing, as the magnificent migration is still in full swing in the Serengeti and the fewer crowds at the beaches of Zanzibar make for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.

NOVEMBER

Tanzania begins its brief rainy season in November. Unlike prolonged wet spells, most accommodations remain open. It is also the best season to see birds in some national parks, especially northern migrants, as the environment turns green. River crossings occur as the Great Migration returns from Kenya. Nevertheless, from November to March, Zanzibar and Mafia have whale sharks to spot

DECEMBER

In December, the short rainy season comes to a close, with occasional brief showers that mostly occur at night. This pattern continues until March. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the influx of migratory birds this month, particularly in Tarangire National Park. At this time, the southern Serengeti's grasslands are bustling with the Great Migration, creating the perfect opportunity for a Serengeti Safari to witness the animals preparing for the calving season.

TIPS ABOUT KILIMANJARO

KILIMANJARO ALTITUDE SICKNESS

KILIMANJARO CLIMB COST

KILIMANJARO VISA

KILIMANJARO RESCUE EFFORTS

BEST TIME TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO

KILIMANJARO CLIMBING EQUIPMENT

TANZANIA TRAVEL GUIDE& EXPERIENCE

TRAVEL GUIDE

Discover The Wonders Of Tanzania's Breathtaking Sights

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ENCOUNTERS

Opportunity To Immerse Yourself In The Country's Nature, Vibrant Culture, And Fascinating History.

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WHAT OUR CLINTS SAY

I am not even sure where to start because everything was beyond perfect. Customer service was the best. The entire team took extremely good care of us. We hiked and in one day we saw a lot of chimpanzees in the park. Juma organized it on very short notice and Abbas is very knowledgeable about the park and took us to the best routes. Thanks a lot, guys!

Trek66484591952

I did a 3-days-2-nights trekking with We Cab Tours in Gombe National park. What can I say? Asante sana! The trip was just super perfect! I saw many chimpanzees (it's not guaranteed for sure because as you know how wildlife is sometimes). BUT I did it in the end of March when officially is off-season and I still saw them. The weather was really good too. Juma, the owner and his employees are super nice people. I always felt safe and understood. Moreover everything was on time what is really rare to get - believe me. I would do it with this organization again for sure! And I will do some other trips when I am again in Tanzania

Lena B

Juma, thank you for your hospitality and flexibility during our travel to Zanzibar. I had an amazing and beautiful experience because of your team. Your team arrived early at the RUI to pack our luggage in the van and patiently waited until we were ready to leave the hotel as were saying goodbye to our friends we met on the trip. I appreciate the time you took on our last day of the visit in Stone town prior to leaving for the airport. You helped us negotiate our fabrics and clothing so that we received the best price

Dawn H

Juma, Makame, Brendah and the We Cab family were the absolute best! They treated us like family, they were on time for every day we booked. They want out of their way to provide the best experience. When we booked the "scary ferry" ride to Dar es Salem, we were treated to a complimentary upgrade. We missed the stop in Nairobi where we were supposed to give donations to an orphanage and they made sure to find a reputable one in Zanzibar, and had one of their guides Brendah, translate on our behalf. I truly felt more like family than a client. I will definitely return to Zanzibar and use We Cab for all my transportation and tour needs.

Dr. Kim J
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