The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) from the north, near the Kenyan border. Known for its gradual ascent, fewer crowds, and unspoiled wilderness, this 6-day trek offers breathtaking landscapes, from lush forests to alpine desert and the glacier-capped summit. The descent follows the Marangu Route, providing a diverse trekking experience. With its dry climate and moderate difficulty, the Rongai Route is ideal for those seeking a quiet and scenic climb with a high summit success rate.
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Activity: Trek briefing and preparation
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. A briefing session with your guide will cover trekking details, equipment checks, and last-minute preparations. Enjoy a restful night before your adventure begins.
Distance: 8 km
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Simba Camp (Tents)
The trek starts at Rongai Gate with a steady climb through dense rainforest, home to blue monkeys and colobus monkeys. As you ascend, the forest gives way to heathland, offering your first glimpse of Kibo Peak before reaching Simba Camp for the night.
Distance: 12 km
Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Kikelelwa Camp (Tents)
Leaving Simba Camp, the trail gradually ascends through the moorland zone, offering wide-open views of Mawenzi Peak. A steep climb leads to Kikelelwa Camp, set in a scenic valley with breathtaking mountain views. The afternoon allows for rest and acclimatization.
Distance: 5 km
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (Tents)
A short but steep trek takes you up to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the rugged Mawenzi Peak. The dramatic landscape and high altitude make this an important day for acclimatization. Optional afternoon hikes help improve adaptation before an overnight stay.
Distance: 9 km
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (Tents)
The trail traverses the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, entering the alpine desert zone. The landscape becomes barren, with volcanic rock formations. After reaching Kibo Hut, you’ll have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the midnight summit attempt.
Distance: 21 km
Trekking Time: 12-14 hours
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (Tents)
The summit attempt starts around midnight, ascending via Gilman’s Point (5,681m) before reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After sunrise celebrations and photos, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut for the night.
Distance: 19 km
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi/Arusha
The final descent passes through the moorland and rainforest zones, where you may spot colobus monkeys. Upon arrival at Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate before transferring back to Moshi for a celebratory meal and rest.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. If you wish to extend your stay, optional tours to Zanzibar, Serengeti, or Ngorongoro can be arranged.
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