Rongai Route 7 Days
Remote Kilimanjaro Trek from the North
INTRODUCTION
The Rongai Route offers a rare and rewarding way to summit Mount Kilimanjaro—approaching the mountain from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. Known for its solitude, gentle gradients, and excellent acclimatization profile, this route is ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter, more wilderness-focused Kilimanjaro experience.
As one of the least crowded routes on the mountain, Rongai allows you to enjoy long stretches of untouched landscape, expansive views across the Kenyan plains, and a steady ascent that significantly improves summit success. The journey ascends from the dry northern slopes and descends via the greener southern side, offering diverse scenery and a complete Kilimanjaro perspective.
With fewer climbers, comfortable camp spacing, and one of the best success rates on the mountain, the 7-day Rongai Route is perfect for travelers who value tranquility, safety, and a well-paced climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m).
7-Day Rongai Route Itinerary
ARRIVAL DAY: Kilimanjaro International Airport → Moshi Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to Leopard Hotel in Moshi. In the evening, you will meet your professional mountain guide for a detailed climb briefing and full equipment check. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel Meals: Dinner Altitude: ~2,950 ft
Day 1: Moshi – Rongai Gate – Simba Camp (First Cave) Overnight Altitude: ~9,300 ft Hiking Time: 4–5 hours Your journey begins with a scenic drive through villages and coffee plantations to the village of Nale Muru, near the Rongai Gate. After meeting your mountain crew, you start trekking through light forest which gradually transitions into open heathland. You arrive at Simba Camp, beautifully positioned with sweeping views toward the plains of Kenya. Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp Overnight Altitude: ~11,300 ft Hiking Time: 3–4 hours A steady ascent through heath and moorland leads you toward Second Cave. Along the way, enjoy excellent views of Kibo Peak and the eastern glaciers. The camp is set in a sheltered valley surrounded by giant senecios and volcanic rock. Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Second Cave – Third Cave Camp Overnight Altitude: ~11,811 ft Hiking Time: 3–4 hours This day focuses on gradual acclimatization. After a relaxed morning, you continue toward Third Cave, following a narrow trail with views of the dramatic Mawenzi spires. The slow ascent greatly improves your body’s adaptation to altitude. Accommodation: Camping Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Third Cave – Mawenzi Tarn Hut Overnight Altitude: ~14,160 ft Hiking Time: 4–5 hours A short but steep climb rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views. The landscape becomes increasingly alpine, dotted with volcanic boulders. You arrive at Mawenzi Tarn, set spectacularly beneath the jagged Mawenzi peaks—one of the most scenic camps on Kilimanjaro. Accommodation: Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut – Kibo Hut Overnight Altitude: ~15,430 ft Hiking Time: 6–8 hours Today you cross the lunar-like landscape known as The Saddle, which lies between Mawenzi and Kibo. On arrival at Kibo Hut, you prepare for summit night. After an early dinner, you rest and hydrate in preparation for the final ascent. Accommodation: Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Kibo Hut – Gilman’s Point – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut Overnight Altitude: ~12,205 ft Hiking Time: 10–14 hours You begin your summit attempt shortly after midnight. The climb is challenging but deeply rewarding. Reaching Gilman’s Point at sunrise, you continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you descend to Kibo Hut for lunch, then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest. Accommodation: Hut Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate – Moshi Overnight Altitude: ~1,843 ft Hiking Time: 5–7 hours A final descent through lush rainforest brings you to Marangu Gate, where you officially sign out of the park. After tipping and saying goodbye to your mountain crew, you return to Moshi for a hot shower and celebratory dinner. Accommodation: Leopard Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DEPARTURE DAY Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. If you have booked a safari or Zanzibar beach extension, our team will seamlessly continue your Tanzanian journey.
Moments Along the Rongai Route
Voices from the Rongai Route
Essential Questions About the Rongai Route
Is the Rongai Route good for first-time Kilimanjaro climbers?
Yes. The Rongai Route features a gradual ascent, fewer crowds, and excellent acclimatization, making it one of the best options for first-time climbers seeking a higher success rate.
How difficult is the Rongai Route compared to other routes?
The Rongai Route is considered moderate in difficulty. It has fewer steep sections than routes like Machame or Umbwe, making it physically manageable while still offering a rewarding challenge.
When is the best time to climb the Rongai Route?
The Rongai Route can be climbed year-round and is especially recommended during the rainy seasons (April–May, November) due to its drier northern location.
