The rongai route also known as loitoktok route is the trail the approaches the mountain from the north side, close to the Kenyan border. The route is still getting popular so it is less crowded compared to the southern routes. Hiking here can be done all throughout the year as the area receives less precipitation even during rainy season.
Acclimatization is done at Mawenzi tarn for those hiking for seven days, which is highly recommended as there is less ‘climb high, sleep low’ option. Despite the fact that the route scenery is not as varied compared to other routes, rongai makes up for this by moving through wild area for almost the entire trail.
The route does not offer huts and the camps are less frequented but they have all the crucial facilities and a rangers hut. After reaching the summit descent is done through Marangu route, which can be an upside as you get the Mount Kilimanjaro view from both sides.
We’ll depart from moshi to marangu gate for permit and after all the formalities we’ll head straight to rongai gate and begin our hike.
The hike will begin in by traversing though the forest which is a home to variety wildlife including black and white colobus monkey, as the forest begins to thin well come to our first camp which offers an extensive view of Kenya.
Elevation: 2000m/6560ft to 2650m/8700ft
Distance: 6km/4mi
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner