Rongai route ascends Mount Kilimanjaro from the north-eastern side of the mountain, along the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The rongai route retains a sense of unspoiled wilderness.

The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. Rongai route is truly one of the more remote and wild trails on the entire mountain. Despite that however, this route offers trekkers plenty of advantages, making it a very appealing option for those looking for a unique experience on Africa’s tallest peak.

Due to its remote nature, the Rongai Route is among the least visited of all of the trails on Mount Kilimanjaro. Those who choose this path will experience peace and quiet for much of the trek, encountering few other climbers prior to reaching the Kibo Camp, at which point the trail merges with the Marangu Route for the final push to the summit.

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation: 1,950m (6,398 ft) to 2,625m (8,612 ft)

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Rainforest

Details:

• After a drive to Rongai Gate for registration, begin trekking through lush rainforest and farmlands.
• Wildlife sightings, such as colobus monkeys, are common in this area.
• Overnight at Simba Camp, located in the heath zone with views of the Kenyan plains.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave

Elevation: 2,625m (8,612 ft) to 3,450m (11,319 ft)

Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)

Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Details:

• The trail ascends steadily through moorland with beautiful views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.
• Reach Second Cave Camp, named for a large natural cave nearby.
• Optional: A short hike to acclimatize further before dinner.

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation: 3,450m (11,319 ft) to 3,600m (11,811 ft)

Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Details:

• The trail becomes steeper as you move closer to the jagged Mawenzi Peak, offering striking views.
• Overnight at Kikelewa Camp, located in a sheltered valley surrounded by giant senecios and lobelias.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Elevation: 3,600m (11,811 ft) to 4,315m (14,160 ft)

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)

Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Details:

• A steep but short hike to Mawenzi Tarn, situated at the base of the spectacular Mawenzi Peak.
• Enjoy an afternoon hike around the tarn to acclimatize further.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Elevation: 4,315m (14,160 ft) to 4,703m (15,430 ft)

Distance: 8 km (5 miles)

Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Habitat: Alpine desert

Details:

• Cross the Saddle, a barren expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
• The trail is relatively flat but can be mentally challenging due to the high altitude and lack of scenery.
• Overnight at Kibo Hut, the base camp for the summit attempt.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Elevation: 4,703m (15,430 ft) to 5,895m (19,341 ft) to 3,720m (12,205 ft)

Distance: 22 km (13.7 miles)

Hiking Time: 10–14 hours (6–8 hours to the summit, 4–6 hours descent)

Habitat: Arctic to moorland

Details:

• Start the summit attempt around midnight. The climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) is steep and challenging.
• From Gilman’s Point, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
• After celebrating, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Elevation: 3,720m (12,205 ft) to 1,870m (6,135 ft)

Distance: 20 km (12.5 miles)

Hiking Time: 5–7 hours

Habitat: Moorland to rainforest

Details:

• A long descent back through the moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate.
• Transport back to Moshi or Arusha for well-deserved rest and celebration.

Optional: 6-Day Rongai Route Itinerary

For those with less time, the 6-day option skips the acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp. While doable, this can increase the risk of altitude sickness.

• Fully-loaded medical kits
• All park fees and taxes
• Dedicated support team
• Safe room and storage room
• Oxygen tanks
• Meals on the hike
• Camping equipment
• Hotel before and after the hike

• International flights
• Tips to the climbing crew
• Visa fee
• Personal gear rentals
• Single supplement
• Travel insurance
• Portable toilet
• Lunch and dinner in the hotel