Rongai Route – 6 to 7 Days Hike
Safari - Overview
The Rongai Route is the only route approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is less crowded than other routes and offers a gradual ascent, making it an excellent choice for climbers looking for a scenic and remote experience. The 6-day trek is ideal for those with trekking experience, while the 7-day trek includes an extra acclimatization day to improve summit success rates.
Highlights:
✅ Less crowded route with stunning views
✅ Higher success rate with an extra acclimatization day (7-day trek)
✅ Varied landscapes, from lush rainforests to the alpine desert
✅ Approach from the north and descend via the Marangu Route
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Drive from Arusha/Moshi to Rongai Gate (1,950m/6,398ft).
- Start trekking through a lush rainforest to Simba Camp (2,650m/8,694ft).
- Hiking time: 3-4 hours.
- Trek through moorland terrain, enjoying stunning views of Kenya’s Amboseli plains.
- Reach Second Cave Camp (3,450m/11,319ft).
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
(For the 7-day trek, an extra day is spent here for acclimatization, with a short hike to Mawenzi Tarn Camp and back.)
- Continue trekking past giant lobelias and rocky terrain.
- Arrive at Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,811ft), near a beautiful valley.
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
- A steep climb leads to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m/14,206ft), situated below the towering Mawenzi Peak.
- Spend the afternoon resting or taking a short acclimatization hike.
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
- Trek across the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks, entering the alpine desert zone.
- Reach Kibo Hut (4,700m/15,420ft), where you’ll rest before the summit attempt.
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours.
- Midnight ascent to the summit via Gilman’s Point (5,685m/18,652ft).
- Continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m/19,341ft), the Roof of Africa!
- Descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m/12,205ft) for rest.
- Hiking time: 10-14 hours (ascent & descent).
- Trek down through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,860m/6,102ft).
- Receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate and transfer back to Arusha/Moshi.
- Hiking time: 5-6 hours.
(The 6-day trek skips the extra acclimatization day and moves at a faster pace.)
Price Includes and Excludes
Price Includes
- Professional English-speaking mountain guides, porters & cook
- All park fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Meals & drinking water during the trek
- Tents & camping equipment
- Transfers from Arusha/Moshi to the trailhead & back
- Kilimanjaro summit certificate
Price Excludes
- Flights and Visa fees
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
- Tips for guides & porters
- Personal expenses and Travel insurance.
- Optional activities and extra days
- Personal trekking gear (can be rented)
Why Choose this Tour?
Trek Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route in 6 or 7 days. Experience a scenic, less crowded path, breathtaking views, and a rewarding summit approach from the north.
Expert Guides & Safety First
Our experienced team ensures a safe and enjoyable trek with top-notch support.
Flexible Itineraries for Acclimatization
Choose between 6 or 7 days for the best success rate and comfort.
Unmatched Scenic Beauty & Less Crowded Trails
Enjoy breathtaking views and a quieter, more remote Kilimanjaro experience.