Overview

The Rongai Route offers a unique and less crowded approach to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, starting from the northern side near the Kenyan border. This route is known for its gentle slopes, diverse scenery, and drier conditions, making it ideal for climbers seeking a quieter, more remote trekking experience. Over six days, you’ll pass through pristine forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrains before reaching the majestic Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa.

The 6-Day Rongai Route begins with a scenic drive to the Rongai Gate, followed by an ascent through untouched wilderness, rich with wildlife and panoramic views. As you trek higher, you’ll witness dramatic landscapes, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts. The route provides excellent acclimatization opportunities and concludes with an exhilarating summit attempt at Uhuru Peak. After reaching the summit, the descent takes you down via the Marangu Route, offering a different perspective of Kilimanjaro’s beauty.

Trip Highlights

Remote and Less Crowded: Offers solitude compared to other routes.
Diverse Scenery: From rainforests and moorlands to alpine deserts.
Wildlife Sightings: Possible encounters with colobus monkeys and exotic birds.
Panoramic Views: Stunning vistas of Kenya’s plains and Kilimanjaro’s glaciers.
Summit Success: High success rate due to gradual ascent and excellent acclimatization.

Day 01 :

Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,620m)

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi/Arusha to the remote Rongai Gate. After registration and meeting your guides, you’ll start the trek through lush montane forests, where you might spot wildlife like colobus monkeys and diverse bird species. The trail is gentle, gradually ascending through picturesque landscapes with views of Kenya’s Amboseli plains. After 4–5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Simba Camp, set in a beautiful forest clearing where you’ll relax and enjoy your first night on the mountain.

Day 02 :

Simba Camp (2,620m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

After breakfast, the trail continues with a steady climb through open moorland, offering spectacular views of Kibo Peak looming ahead. The landscape transitions from dense forest to rugged heathland, dotted with giant heathers and volcanic rocks. You’ll pass the Second Cave Camp, where you’ll stop for lunch and a brief rest before continuing towards Kikelewa Camp. This section offers breathtaking scenery, with sweeping views across the plains below. You’ll arrive at Kikelewa Camp in the late afternoon, nestled in a sheltered valley surrounded by towering cliffs.

Day 03 :

Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m)

Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, as you ascend a rugged trail through alpine desert terrain. The vegetation thins out, revealing striking views of the jagged Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest summit. After 4–5 hours of hiking, you’ll reach Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi and beside a serene mountain tarn (small lake). This is one of the most stunning campsites on the mountain. The afternoon is dedicated to acclimatization, with optional hikes around the camp to help your body adjust to the altitude.

Day 04 :

Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m) to Kibo Hut (4,720m)

After an early breakfast, you’ll trek across the barren "Saddle"—a vast, alpine desert plateau that stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The trail is exposed, with strong winds and minimal vegetation, creating a surreal, lunar-like landscape. As you approach Kibo Hut, the base camp for your summit attempt, the imposing Uhuru Peak comes into view. You’ll have an early dinner and rest, as you’ll begin your summit push just before midnight.

Day 05 :

Kibo Hut (4,720m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), then Descent to Horombo Hut (3,720m)

The summit attempt starts in the dark, guided by headlamps and the glow of the stars. The trail is steep and challenging, with switchbacks leading to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. After a brief rest, you’ll continue along the snowy crater path to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the Roof of Africa. Standing at the summit as the sun rises is an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views of the glaciers and the vast African landscape below.

After celebrating and taking photos, you’ll begin the long descent back to Kibo Hut for a short rest. The trek continues downhill to Horombo Hut, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved meal and a good night’s sleep.

Day 06 :

Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m), then Transfer to Moshi/Arusha

After breakfast, you’ll continue your descent through the moorland and back into the lush rainforest. The trail can be slippery, so take your time and use trekking poles if needed. Upon reaching the Marangu Gate, you’ll sign the summit register and receive your well-earned certificate of achievement. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha, where you can relax and celebrate your incredible accomplishment.