Rongai Route
About this Tour
- 6 Days
- 5 Nights
The Rongai Route is a quieter and drier path up Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching the mountain from the north near the Kenyan border. It is one of the least crowded routes, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a more remote trekking experience.
Rongai is known for its steady, gradual ascent great for acclimatization and offers incredible views of the mountain’s northeastern face, which are not seen from other routes. While it is slightly shorter than other treks, it is suitable for those with good fitness levels and a determined spirit.
Area to Visit/Destinations to go
Full Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival | Pick up from Kilimanjaro Int’l Airport
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and transferred to Moshi for dinner and overnight at your hotel. In the evening, you’ll meet your mountain guide for a pre-climb briefing and gear check in preparation for the trek starting the next day.
- Day 2: Simba Camp
After breakfast, you’ll drive 3–4 hours through beautiful rural landscapes to the Rongai Gate (Nalemoru), near the Kenyan border. After registration with park authorities, your trek begins along a gentle track through maize fields and pine forest. You may spot colobus monkeys or other forest wildlife before arriving at Simba Camp.
(2,000 m / 6,561 ft to 2,650 m / 8,694 ft, 7 km / 4.3 miles, 3–4 hours, rainforest zone)
- Day 3 : Kikelewa Camp
Today’s trek is a steady ascent with expansive views of the Kenyan plains below. You’ll pass by Second Cave (where you’ll stop for a break), then continue through moorland toward the jagged peak of Mawenzi before reaching the scenic Kikelewa Camp, located in a protected valley.
(2,650 m / 8,694 ft to 3,600 m / 11,811 ft, 12 km / 7.5 miles, 6–7 hours, moorland zone)
- Day 4: Kibo Hut
After a short, steep climb from Kikelewa Camp, you’ll reach Mawenzi Tarn, a beautiful lake nestled beneath the rugged spires of Mawenzi. After a short rest, you’ll continue across the barren saddle that connects Mawenzi and Kibo, reaching Kibo Hut by afternoon. Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the summit push at midnight.
(3,600 m / 11,811 ft to 4,703 m / 15,430 ft, 15 km / 9.3 miles, 7–8 hours, alpine desert)
- Day 5: Uhuru Peak
Your summit attempt begins around midnight. The trail ascends steeply to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m), where you’ll be greeted by a dramatic sunrise over the crater. From here, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the Roof of Africa. After celebrations and photos, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Hut.
(4,703 m / 15,430 ft to 5,895 m / 19,341 ft to 3,720 m / 12,205 ft, 22 km / 14 miles total, 12–14 hours, arctic to moorland)
- Day 6: Marangu Gate
After a warm breakfast, begin your final descent through the lush rainforest. On arrival at Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate. A vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi or directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, depending on your schedule.
(3,720 m / 12,205 ft to 1,870 m / 6,135 ft, 20 km / 12 miles, 5–6 hours, moorland to rainforest)
Price Includes
- All transfers
- Hotel before and after the trek
- Camping equipment
- Professional mountain guides
- Professional chefs
- Porters assistance
- All meals while on the hike
- All park fees
- Unlimited drinking water
Price Excludes
- International flight
- Tanzanian visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear rentals
- Lunch and dinner at the hotel
- Gratuity to the trekking crew
- Single supplement
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