6 Days Kilimanjaro Trek Rongai Route

Duration

6 Days 5 Nights
From $1,990
/ Person
  • Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (KIA)
  • Jan, Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
  • Camping in Mountain Tents
  • Coster Bus
  • English
  • Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (KIA)

Overview

The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. While it’s growing in popularity, it remains one of the quieter routes, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more remote and peaceful climb. The northern side of the mountain also receives less rainfall, making Rongai an ideal option during the wet season when other routes can be more challenging.

Most trekkers complete the route in six days, but a seven-day itinerary is recommended for better acclimatization. While it may not have the dramatic scenery of some western routes, Rongai offers a true wilderness experience, winding through remote landscapes before joining the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. The descent follows the Marangu Route, giving climbers a fresh perspective on the mountain. With a moderate difficulty level, Rongai is a solid choice for those new to trekking, striking a perfect balance between adventure and accessibility.

Tour Highlights

  • Quiet & Remote – Fewer trekkers for a peaceful climb.
  • Wilderness Feel – Passes through remote landscapes.
  • Different Descent Route – Descend via Marangu for varied scenery.

Tour Itinerary

This morning we will drive to the village of Nale Moru for the starting point of the Rongai route. The first stage of the trek is through farmland and pine forests. You may have a chance to see the beautiful Colobus monkeys or if you’re lucky enough, elephants or buffalos en route. Our first camp will be the Simba Camp located at the edge of the moorland zone at 2625m.

  • Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,600m (8,530ft)
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Distance: Approximately 7km (4.3 miles)
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Habitat: Rainforest

We hike from Simba camp up towards Kibo till 3 482m for lunch at First Caves, a distance of 5.8km. After lunch we continued trekking until reaching Kikelelwa Camp at about 3679 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain! Water can be found in an obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find a pool or two. Enjoy dinner and overnight at Kikelelwa camp.

  • Elevation: 2,600m (8,530ft) to 3,450m (11,319ft)
  • Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: Approximately 11km (6.8 miles)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Habitat: Moorland

Leaving Second Cave Camp behind, you'll continue your ascent towards Kikelewa Camp. Today's trail offers stunning vistas of the rugged terrain, with Kilimanjaro's iconic peaks looming ever closer. As you hike, you'll notice the landscape becoming more sparse, dominated by rocky outcrops and alpine desert vegetation. Kikelewa Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,600 meters, provides a picturesque setting for your overnight stay. Take in the breathtaking views and relish the sense of accomplishment as you settle in for the night.

  • Elevation: 3,450m (11,319ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft)
  • Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
  • Distance: Approximately 6km (3.7 miles)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today's trek takes you to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro's second highest summit, Mawenzi. The trail gradually ascends through alpine desert terrain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach Mawenzi Tarn, you'll be greeted by a pristine alpine lake, set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations. Spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing at camp, taking short walks to further explore the area and prepare for the final push to the summit.

  • Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,206ft)
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: Approximately 8km (5 miles)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Habitat: Alpine Desert

Today is the culmination of your journey as you set out for the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. The ascent begins in the early hours of the morning, under the glow of starlight, as you make your way up steep and challenging terrain. As the sun rises, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, you'll push onward, fueled by determination and the support of your experienced guides. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to savor the incredible sense of achievement and enjoy panoramic views stretching across the vast African plains below. After celebrating your success, begin the descent back to Horombo Hut, where you'll spend your final night on the mountain, reflecting on the unforgettable experience.

  • Elevation: 4,330m (14,206ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
  • Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-7 hours descent)
  • Distance: Approximately 21km (13 miles)
  • Difficulty: Very Challenging
  • Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert

On the last day of your trek, you'll descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps back to Marangu Gate. Here, you'll bid farewell to your guides and porters, who have supported you throughout the journey. After completing the necessary formalities and receiving your summit certificate, you'll transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can rest and reminisce about your incredible adventure on Kilimanjaro. Take time to explore the local markets, interact with the friendly Tanzanian people, and soak in the vibrant culture before departing for your onward journey.

  • Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,860m (6,102ft)
  • Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: Approximately 20km (12.4 miles)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Habitat: Rainforest

Price Includes

  • Professional, experienced, mountain guides
  • Guides, Porters, Cook salaries, and park fees
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder
  • All meals while on the Mountain
  • Quality Mess tents with tables and chairs
  • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food
  • Clean, purified drinking water
  • Conservation fees (part of park fees)
  • Camping or Hut fees (part of park fees)
  • Rescue fees (part of park fees)
  • VAT (18% charged by the Government)
  • Kilimanjaro summit certificate
  • All transfers to the mountain and back to your hotel

Price Excludes

  • Alcohol and soft drinks
  • Sleeping bag
  • Flights
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs
  • Travel insurance

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