What is the Rongai Route?

The Rongai Route is one of the few routes that ascends Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. It's known for being quieter and less crowded compared to other routes, offering a more scenic and peaceful experience.

Is a guide required to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Yes, it is mandatory to have a licensed guide, as well as porters, when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This is to ensure your safety and to comply with Tanzania National Park regulations.

Climbing Mt.Kilimanjaro via Rongai Route

Accomodation
Lodges
Arrival City
Arusha/Moshi
Guide
Guided
Language
English, Swahili

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Description

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route (7 days, 6 nights) offers a quieter, scenic trek from the northern side with stunning views and gradual acclimatization, ensuring a rewarding summit experience.

Highlights

Remote and Quiet Trail – A less crowded route starting from the northern side near the Kenyan border.
Diverse Landscapes – Trek through rainforest, alpine moorlands, and rugged high-altitude terrain.
Panoramic Views – Enjoy sweeping views of Kenya and Tanzania throughout the climb.
Wildlife Spotting – Chance to see colobus monkeys and other wildlife in the lower forest.
Gradual Acclimatization – Extra acclimatization day increases summit success rate.
Scenic Summit Approach – Sunrise at Uhuru Peak after a rewarding night trek.
Descent via Marangu Route – A different trail on the way down offers varied perspectives.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Moshi/Arusha

Arrive at your hotel for briefing and equipment check. Rest and prepare for the trek.

Day 02 :

Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,600m (8,530ft)Distance: 8km (5 miles)Time: 4–5 hours
Start from Rongai Gate with a gradual ascent through the forest to Simba Camp.

Day 03 :

Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 2,600m (8,530ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft)Distance: 11km (7 miles)Time: 6–7 hours
Pass through heather and moorland zones, enjoying panoramic views of the Kibo peak.

Day 04 :

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,206ft)Distance: 5km (3 miles)Time: 3–4 hours
A short but steep hike to Mawenzi Tarn Camp at the base of Mawenzi Peak. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing.

Day 05 :

Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 4,330m (14,206ft) to 4,700m (15,420ft)Distance: 8km (5 miles)Time: 5–6 hours
Cross the alpine desert and reach Kibo Hut for an early night’s rest before the summit attempt.

Day 06 :

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,700m (15,420ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) (summit), then down to 3,720m (12,204ft)Distance: 6km (4 miles) ascent, 16km (10 miles) descentTime: 8–10 hours ascent, 6–8 hours descent
Start the summit trek around midnight, reaching Uhuru Peak for sunrise. Descend to Horombo Hut for overnight rest.

Day 07 :

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,720m (12,204ft) to 1,860m (6,102ft)Distance: 20km (12 miles)Time: 6–7 hours
Complete the descent to Marangu Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificate before returning to Moshi/Arusha.

Day 08 :

Optional Day 8: Departure

Relax or explore the area before your departure.

Recent Articles

Trip Details

Climbing Mt.Kilimanjaro via Rongai Route

Trip Info

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Description

Highlights

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQ

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Ready to Experience Safaris?

Useful Links

Our Instagram

Subscribe