Tour Overview
Looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path climb to the top of Africa? The Rongai Route offers a unique perspective of Mount Kilimanjaro—approaching the summit from the northern side near the Kenyan border. This scenic and less-crowded trail is perfect for those seeking a more remote and peaceful trekking experience.
Over the course of 6 to 7 days, the route takes you through untouched wilderness, alpine moorlands, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, with views of the rugged Mawenzi Peak. As you ascend toward the summit, you'll enjoy diverse scenery and have a good chance of spotting wildlife on the lower slopes.
The Rongai Route is considered moderately difficult, with a gradual ascent that allows for better acclimatization and a strong summit success rate. The trek culminates in a midnight push to Uhuru Peak via the Kibo Hut route, then descends along the Marangu Route—giving you two different sides of the mountain in one adventure.
For trekkers who want a quiet, beautiful route with a high success rate and a unique approach to the summit, Rongai is a standout choice.
Karibu sana – you are most welcome!
Duration
8 days
Group Size
Up to 6 people
Locations
Kilimanjaro
Highlights
- Quiet and less crowded trail
- Approaches from the north
- Drier and sunnier route
- Views over Kenyan plains
- Gentle, steady ascent
- Wildlife sightings possible
- Scenic crater rim approach
What's Included
- All accommodations (2 nights)
- All transportation in 4x4 vehicles
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All park entrance fees
- Airport transfers
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees
- Optional activities
8-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Rongai Route
Day 1
Arrival
Day 2
Forest Trek
Day 3
Moorland
Day 4
Alpine Zone
Day 5
The Saddle
Day 6
Summit Day
Day 7
Victory Descent
Day 8
Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Transfer to Moshi
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, one of our friendly drivers will greet you and take you to your hotel in Moshi. Use this day to unwind, explore the town, or simply relax after your journey. In the evening, you'll meet your mountain guide for a detailed trek briefing and gear check.
Day 2: Moshi – Rongai Gate (2,364m) – Simba Camp (2,633m)
After breakfast, we'll set out on a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, the starting point on Kilimanjaro's northern side. Once the permits are sorted, your trek begins through dense forest trails rich in wildlife and unique flora. After 4–5 hours of trekking, you'll arrive at Simba Camp, nestled on the edge of the moorland zone.
Day 3: Simba Camp – Second Cave (3,491m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,665m)
Today, you'll follow a steadily ascending trail through open moorland with spectacular views of Kibo Peak and its icy cap. You'll break for a warm lunch at Second Cave Camp, then continue hiking toward the base of Mawenzi Peak. By late afternoon, you'll reach Kikelewa Camp, a serene spot ideal for acclimatization.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,308m)
A shorter but steeper climb awaits as you hike up grassy slopes into the Alpine Desert zone. The views become more dramatic, especially with Mawenzi's jagged spires looming above. You'll arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Hut around midday, nestled below Mawenzi's cliffs. After lunch and rest, a short acclimatization walk up to 4,600m is included.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – The Saddle – Kibo Hut (4,708m)
This day's trek leads you across The Saddle, a striking, lunar-like expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. With panoramic views in all directions, this is often a favorite day among trekkers. You'll reach Kibo Hut by early afternoon. The rest of the day is dedicated to rest and preparation for the summit attempt.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – The Saddle – Kibo Hut (4,708m)
This day's trek leads you across The Saddle, a striking, lunar-like expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. With panoramic views in all directions, this is often a favorite day among trekkers. You'll reach Kibo Hut by early afternoon. The rest of the day is dedicated to rest and preparation for the summit attempt.
Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Your summit attempt begins around midnight under the stars. Slowly and steadily, you'll ascend to Gilman's Point (5,703m), then continue along the crater rim to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Celebrate your achievement at the top before descending back to Kibo Hut for a warm meal and rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 7: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (1,847m) – Moshi
Your final descent passes through heath, moorland, and lush rainforest. At Mandara Hut, you'll enjoy a hot lunch before continuing to Marangu Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates. A transfer takes you back to Moshi for a well-deserved shower and celebration dinner.
Day 8: Departure or Safari Extension
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight index. If you're not ready to leave yet, consider extending your adventure with a relaxing Zanzibar beach escape or an unforgettable wildlife safari in Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
Featured Kilimanjaro Trekking Activities
Multi-Zone Hiking
Experience the dramatic transition from rainforest to arctic summit across five distinct ecosystems.
Rainforest Wildlife Spotting
Spot colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and unique flora in Kilimanjaro's lush lower slopes.
Summit Uhuru Peak
Conquer Africa's highest point (5,895m) with a sunrise celebration on the crater rim.
Mawenzi Tarn Visit
Discover this glacial lake beneath Mawenzi's spires, a perfect acclimatization spot at 4,330m.
Alpine Desert Trek
Cross the surreal "Saddle" between Kibo and Mawenzi peaks in this high-altitude desert.
Glacier Sunrise Views
Watch golden light illuminate Kilimanjaro's shrinking glaciers from Gilman's Point (5,703m).