Overview

The 6 Days Rongai Route is the only Mount Kilimanjaro trail that approaches the mountain from the northern side near the Kenya border. Known for its gradual ascent, peaceful wilderness, and fewer crowds, this route is an excellent choice for climbers seeking a quieter trekking experience with a high chance of summit success. The descent follows the scenic Marangu Route, allowing climbers to experience two different sides of Africa’s highest mountain. The Rongai Route is especially suitable during the rainy seasons, as the northern slopes receive less rainfall than the southern routes.

Tour Highlights

• Reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – the highest point in Africa.
• Trek through untouched northern forests and alpine wilderness.
• Experience one of Kilimanjaro’s least crowded routes.
• Excellent acclimatization with a steady, gradual ascent.
• Spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak, Kibo Peak, and the Kenyan plains.
• Descend via the famous Marangu Route.
• Professional mountain guides, porters, and experienced cook.
• All camping equipment and meals provided during the climb.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Moshi – Rongai Gate – Simba Camp

Elevation: 1,950 m to 2,625 m
Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Habitat: Montane Forest

After an early breakfast, depart from Moshi and drive approximately 3–4 hours to Rongai Gate, located on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro near the Kenyan border. Upon arrival, complete park registration before meeting your mountain crew.

Begin your trek through peaceful pine forests and natural woodland where you may spot colobus monkeys and various bird species. The trail gradually ascends before reaching Simba Camp, located on the edge of the moorland.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Simba Camp

Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave – Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 2,625 m to 3,600 m
Distance: 11 km
Hiking Time: 6–7 Hours
Habitat: Moorland

Today’s trek continues through open moorland with panoramic views across northern Tanzania and southern Kenya. Stop at Second Cave for lunch before leaving the main trail towards the spectacular volcanic landscape beneath Mawenzi Peak.

The afternoon climb is gentle but steady before reaching Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley with stunning mountain scenery.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp

Day 3: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 3,600 m to 4,330 m
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

A shorter trekking day allows your body to adjust to the increasing altitude. The trail climbs steadily through alpine desert terrain before reaching the beautiful Mawenzi Tarn Camp, situated beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak.

Spend the afternoon resting or taking a short acclimatization walk while enjoying breathtaking mountain views.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn Camp – Kibo Hut

Elevation: 4,330 m to 4,700 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 Hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today’s journey crosses the vast lunar-like landscape known as The Saddle, located between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The terrain becomes increasingly barren, offering magnificent views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic formations.

Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon. After an early dinner, rest for a few hours in preparation for the midnight summit attempt.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kibo Hut

Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700 m to 5,895 m then descend to 3,720 m
Distance: 22 km
Hiking Time: 11–15 Hours
Habitat: Arctic → Alpine Moorland

Around midnight, begin the challenging ascent toward the summit. Trek slowly under a sky filled with stars, passing Hans Meyer Cave before reaching Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim.

Continue along the crater edge to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the Roof of Africa. Witness an unforgettable sunrise over glaciers, volcanic landscapes, and endless African plains.

After celebrating your achievement and taking photographs, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Horombo Hut

Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi

Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,860 m
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 Hours
Habitat: Moorland & Rainforest

After breakfast, continue your final descent through lush rainforest filled with giant trees, colorful flowers, and abundant birdlife.

Arrive at Marangu Gate, where you will complete park formalities and receive your official Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Certificate.

Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi for a well-deserved celebration and overnight stay or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Package Includes

• Airport transfers (where applicable)
• Professional English-speaking mountain guides
• Experienced mountain cook and porters
• Kilimanjaro National Park entrance, camping and rescue fees
• Three nutritious meals daily during the climb
• Quality mountain tents and sleeping mattresses
• Tables, chairs and dining tent
• Portable toilet (if included by operator)
• Boiled and filtered drinking water
• First aid kit and emergency oxygen
• Daily health monitoring
• Summit certificate
• Government taxes and VAT

Package Excludes

• International and domestic flights
• Tanzanian Visa
• Personal travel insurance
• Sleeping bag and personal climbing gear (available for hire)
• Tips for guides, porters and cook
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Items of a personal nature

Best Time to Climb

The Rongai Route can be climbed throughout the year, but the best conditions are generally during:

• January – March
• June – October

Because the route approaches from the drier northern side of Kilimanjaro, it is also one of the preferred options during the rainy seasons.