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 8 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
9 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
9-Day Kilimanjaro Trek via Rongai Route
Day 1
Arrival
Day 2
Forest Trek
Day 3
Moorland
Day 4
Alpine Zone
Day 5
Acclimatization
Day 6
The Saddle
Day 7
Summit Day
Day 8
Victory Descent
Day 9
Departure
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Moshi
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be greeted by our driver and transferred to a comfortable hotel in Moshi. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the town at your leisure. In the evening, you'll attend a briefing session to prepare for your upcoming climb.
Day 2: Moshi – Rongai Gate (2,364m) – Simba Camp (2,633m)
After breakfast, you'll be driven (approx. 3 hours on a rough road) to Rongai Gate, where you'll register with the park authorities. Your trek to the summit begins here with a 7 km hike to Simba Camp. On arrival, you'll be served hot drinks and later enjoy dinner.
Day 3: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp (3,491m) – Kikelelwa Camp (3,665m)
Today's trek takes you through beautiful moorland landscapes with views of Kibo Peak and glimpses of the eastern ice fields. After 5–6 hours of trekking, you'll stop for a hot lunch at Second Cave Camp. The hike then continues toward the striking Mawenzi Peak, ending at Kikelelwa Camp.
Day 4: Kikelelwa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,308m)
A short but steep climb rewards you with stunning views as you leave the moorland and enter the alpine desert. You'll reach Mawenzi Tarn Hut by midday, nestled beneath the jagged Mawenzi peaks. After lunch and rest, a 2-hour acclimatization hike to Mawenzi Hut (4,600m) follows.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Hut
This is a full acclimatization day. Depending on your condition and the weather, you may take a hike up to Jiwe la Ukoyo near Kibo Hut (4,708m). The rest of the day is for relaxation and light activities like games and socializing.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Hut – Kibo Hut (4,708m)
Today you cross the Saddle, a high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The stunning, moon-like terrain makes this a favorite day for many trekkers. After reaching Kibo Hut, the rest of the day is for resting and preparing for the final summit push.
Day 7: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Summit night begins around midnight when the ground is still frozen. You'll trek through the dark past Hans Meyer Cave, reaching Gilman's Point (5,703m) by sunrise. After 1–2 more hours, you'll stand atop Uhuru Peak—the "Roof of Africa." After descending to Kibo Hut for a hot meal and short rest, you'll continue to Horombo Hut for the night.
Day 8: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (1,847m) – Return to Moshi
Your final day of trekking leads you through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate. A hot lunch awaits at Mandara Hut. After completing the descent (6–7 hours), you'll say farewell to your mountain crew and head back to Moshi for a well-earned rest and celebration.
Day 9: Moshi – Kilimanjaro Airport / Optional Extension
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure. Alternatively, you can choose to extend your stay with a safari or beach getaway on the Indian Ocean.
Kilimanjaro Adventure 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).