Group Size

2+
Maximum Altitude

5895 M
Arrival on

Moshi
Departure from

Moshi
Tour type

Hiking
Language

English, French, German & Swahili
Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Permits

Full Permitted

Overview

The 6-day Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro trail that approaches the summit from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is known for its remote and less crowded path, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter trekking experience. The route offers a steady ascent, making it one of the more manageable climbs, with a high success rate. Unlike the steep Umbwe or Machame routes, Rongai provides a gradual altitude gain and stunning views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park and Kilimanjaro’s ice fields.

Trip Highlights

The only route that starts from the north side of Kilimanjaro
Less crowded and offers a true wilderness experience
High success rate due to the gradual ascent
Stunning views of Kenya’s savannah and Kilimanjaro’s glaciers
Descends via the Marangu Route for a diverse experience

Day 01 :

Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 2,020m to 2,650m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest

Your adventure begins with a drive to the remote Rongai Gate. The trek starts through lush rainforests, where you may spot Colobus monkeys. The trail is gentle, leading to Simba Camp near the edge of the moorland zone.

Day 02 :

Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Elevation: 2,650m to 3,450m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorland

The trail ascends gradually through open moorlands, offering stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. The hike is not too strenuous, allowing for good acclimatization. You will reach Second Cave Camp in the afternoon.

Day 03 :

Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 3,450m to 3,600m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Moorland

The trek continues through rugged terrain as you approach Kikelewa Camp. The vegetation begins to thin as you gain altitude, and the views become more dramatic.

Day 04 :

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

A short but steep climb leads to Mawenzi Tarn, a spectacular campsite at the foot of Mawenzi Peak. The day allows for proper acclimatization before the final ascent.

Day 05 :

Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (Summit Base Camp)

Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

The trail merges with the Marangu Route as you head toward Kibo Hut, the base camp for your summit attempt. After an early dinner, you’ll rest before the midnight trek to the summit.

Day 06 :

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak) then down to 3,720m
Hiking Time: 10-14 hours
Habitat: Arctic to Moorland

Your summit push starts around midnight with a steep climb to Gillman’s Point (5,685m), then continues along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After taking in the breathtaking sunrise, you’ll descend to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest.

Day 07 :

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,720m to 1,860m
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Rainforest

The final descent takes you through lush rainforests before reaching Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before heading back to your hotel.