7 DAYS KILIMANJARO RONGAI ROUTE.

7 DAYS KILIMANJARO RONGAI ROUTE.

There are six established routes to climb Mount Kilimanjaro - Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Shira, Rongai and Umbwe. The Marangu, Machame and Umbwe roads all approach from the south side of the mountain. Lemosho and Shira roads approach from the west. Rongai Road approaches from the north. All roads except Marangu and Rongai pass through Mwerka. Rongai route on Mount Kilimanjaro

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via Rongai Route

Less crowded due to its remote location, this route offers hikers a unique wilderness experience where large wildlife such as antelope, elephants and buffalo can be seen. Since there's generally less moisture on this side of the mountain, you'll experience less rain and a clearer view of the summit. Although it is flatter, it does not offer a high climb option and therefore more days should be chosen for acclimatization.

The Rongai route is one of the easiest routes on Kilimanjaro. Rongai is the only way to reach Kilimanjaro from the north and descends via the Marangu route. The overnight peak from Kibo Hut is very steep and follows the same path as the Marangu route from Gilman's Point to Uhuru Peak.

Mount Kilimanjaro weather

Due to Tanzania's proximity to the equator, the region typically does not experience extreme winter and summer weather, instead having dry and wet seasons. Local weather conditions on Mount Kilimanjaro can be unpredictable to say the least. Precipitation varies from 2100 mm/year in the rainforest zone to less than 120 mm/year in the mountaintop zone. Similarly, daily temperature changes are unexpected compared to normal weather cycles and highly altitude dependent.

Kilimanjaro he is divided into five zones.

Cultivated farmland with coffee fields and banana fields

A tropical rainforest with beautiful flora and fauna

Heather bogs, lush alpine plants and wildflowers

A high-altitude desert apparently due to volcanic activity

Arctic moon-like desert with glaciers and snowy peaks

At about 1,000 m (3,280 ft) elevation, each zone has a corresponding decrease in precipitation and temperature with increasing elevation. Average temperatures at the start of the climb are around 27°C to 32°C (70°F to 80°F) and are relatively stable throughout the year. From there, the temperature drops as you climb. At the summit, Uhuru Peak, evening temperatures range from -18°C to -26°C (0°F to -15°F).

Our seasons are becoming less predictable as the world's weather patterns change dramatically. The rains are usually longer from March to May and less in November and December. Visibility is limited at this time and the mountains can become more slippery.

Summer from June to October is great for rock climbing. April and May usually have ideal weather and generally fewer climbers, so you might be lucky enough to have the summit all to yourself.

Important things to know: Our beautiful mountains can hold their own and the weather can change at any moment! Be prepared.

WHY CHOOSE RONGAI ROUTE Rongai is the only route that starts from the northern circuit. It's an unspoiled route with the greatest wildlife visibility. You can spot large antelopes, elephants and buffaloes. Rongai route has a good success rate and avoids wasted effort with less altitude problems. It is flatter than other Kilimanjaro routes, it allows you to sleep on the bottom and spend more time in the mountains. It can be walked in the 6-day Rongai route and also in the 7-day Rongai route. The 7-day Rongai route will give you more time to acclimate to the proper climate and is highly recommended.

The distance of the Rongai route is exactly 76kms from gate to gate. Here are the details of distance travelled days according to the 7 days itinerary.

Day 1: Distance 8 km - The trek begins from Nalemuru Gate and follows entering the rainforest.

Day 2: Distance 16 km - Traversing into the low alpine moorland zone where you will notice the vegetation change to shrubs and grasses.

Day 3: Distance 3 kms - Climb the Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

Day 4: Distance 0 km - Acclimatization day.

Day 5: Distance 9 km - A gradual hike from Mawenzi Tarn Camp heading west through the saddle.

Day 6: Distance 21 km - This day begins at midnight and you will ascend through the rocky path.

Day 7: Distance 19 km - The final day from Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate is a long one, nearly 20 km.

HOW HARD IS RONGAI ROUTE The Rongai route is moderately a difficult route however it is also a highly recommended route, especially for backpackers. The Rongai route will pass through the high density of wildlife as it starts from the northern side of the mountain.The Rongai Route 7 Days itinerary will give you an additional day for acclimatization and also allow you to sleep more in the lower elevations and spend more time in the mountains. This helps you to stay away from altitude sickness.The Rongai route is less crowded and allows you to enjoy the route all alone.

BEST TIME TO TREK RONGAI ROUTE ROUTE

July-September are the best months to climb Kilimanjaro as the weather is most stable during this period and encountering rain is less likely. That said, since it is close to the equator it is possible to climb the mountain at any time of the year.

April and May is the rainy season so this period is best avoided. Because Rongai Route is on the northern side of Kilimanjaro is in a rain shadow, the month of May and November are a good time to do the trek as well.

Is the Rongai route the easiest route to Kilimanjaro?

The Rongai route is considered the easiest route to Mount Kilimanjaro. The ride was both slow and steady. However, the Rongai route does not have a high, low sleep profile, which is said to be more challenging than the Machame or Lemosho routes. The 7 day hike option is highly recommended as it allows for better acclimatization. No climbing technique required, but physical fitness level required. You can read more about training to climb Kilimanjaro and our Kilimanjaro training program page to help you prepare.

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