If you’re dreaming of summiting Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa without the crowds, the Rongai Route is your trail. A stunning 6-day journey on the northeast side of Mt Kilimanjaro Tanzania, this path is perfect for trekkers who want remote beauty, easier terrain, and a strong shot at the summit. 🎯
From lush forest to alpine desert to the icy cap of Mt Kilimanjaro peak, this trail delivers an unforgettable, rewarding experience.
| Day | Route | Altitude | Distance | Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nale Moru Gate – Simba Camp | 2,020 → 2,650 m | 8 km | 3–4 hrs | Forest, wildlife, remote start |
| 2 | Simba – Second Cave Camp | 2,650 → 3,450 m | 11 km | 6–8 hrs | Moorland, Kilimanjaro views |
| 3 | Second – Third Cave Camp | 3,450 → 3,870 m | 9 km | 3–4 hrs | High moorland, acclimatization |
| 4 | Third Cave – Kibo Huts | 3,870 → 4,700 m | 5 km | 4–5 hrs | Alpine desert, summit prep |
| 5 | Kibo – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Huts | 4,700 → 5,895 → 3,720 m | 19 km | 12–15 hrs | Summit at sunrise, glacier views |
| 6 | Horombo – Marangu Gate | 3,720 → 1,980 m | 20 km | 6 hrs | Rainforest descent, celebration |
Mount Kilimanjaro Africa – The Rongai Route starts near the Kenyan border. It’s the only route that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro Africa from the north—meaning fewer trekkers, untouched terrain, and wildlife sightings.
From verdant rainforest to moon-like alpine desert, this trail lets you see nearly every ecosystem on Kilimanjaro mountain Tanzania.
Thanks to its gradual climb and “climb high, sleep low” profile, it offers solid acclimatization—even on a 6-day schedule.
At 4,700m, the stars are brilliant. The silence? Absolute. You’ll feel the mountain’s soul.
Bring the right gear for this epic climb on Mt Kilimanjaro Africa:
Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in!)
Clothing: Base layers, fleece, hardshell, down jacket, gloves, warm hat
Accessories: Headlamp (summit night), trekking poles, sunglasses, hydration system
Extras: Electrolytes, snacks, lip balm, sunscreen
Pro Tip: Pack layers for rapid weather shifts. Summit night temps can drop below -10°C!
Why stop at the summit? Combine your tanzania mount kilimanjaro experience with an unforgettable safari through the iconic Northern Circuit.
Serengeti – The Great Migration and big cat country
Ngorongoro Crater – UNESCO World Heritage Site and Big Five zone
Tarangire – Baobabs and vast elephant herds
Lake Manyara – Flamingos and tree-climbing lions
CTA: Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and witness the wild wonders of Africa—all in one epic trip!
Is the Rongai Route good for beginners?
Yes! It’s less steep and offers a gradual ascent, perfect for first-time high-altitude trekkers.
What makes the Rongai Route different?
It’s the only route approaching kilimanjaro in tanzania from the north, making it quieter, drier, and more remote.
When is the best time to climb Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa?
June–October and January–March are ideal—clear skies and dry conditions.
How cold is it at the summit?
Expect temps between -7°C to -15°C. Proper layering is crucial!
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No technical gear or skills required—just fitness, mental toughness, and determination.
Expert local guides who live and breathe tanzania mountain kilimanjaro
Ethical trekking: fair porter treatment, eco-friendly practices
Seamless logistics: permits, transport, meals, gear
Personalized service and round-the-clock support
This 6-Day Rongai Route is more than a trek—it’s a journey of growth, grit, and awe. Conquer the mighty Mt Kilimanjaro peak, then roam wild with a Northern Safari. It’s time to create stories you’ll tell for life.
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 784 411 852
🔗 Visit Us: East Africa Safari Tanzania
| 1 PAX | 2 PAX | 3 PAX | 4 – PAX |
| $ 1,816 | $ 1,663 | $ 1,640 | $ 1,608 |
| Destination | Mt Kilimanjaro |
|---|---|
| Arrival | Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) |
| Departure Time | Yes Require |
| Included | 2 nights’ accommodation in Moshi; Private transport to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport; Park entry fees; Camping fees; Transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro gate; Team Kilimanjaro Rescue fees 18%; VAT on tour fees; services 4-season mountain tents; Friendly and professional mountain guides; cooks; and porters 3; hot meals daily while on the mountain; Enough treated and filtered drinking water throughout the trek; Hot water for washing; Fair wages for the mountain crew; Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO) Government taxes; Oximeter; Sleeping mattress; Quality mess tents with tables and chairs Emergency first-aid kit; Visa – MasterCard 3.5% |
| Excluded | Airfare; Tips for porters, Guides, Cooks, and Assistant Guide; Flights; Tips to the mountain staff; Meals other than breakfast while in Arusha or Moshi; Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included; Hotel upgrade costs if you decide to request an alternative hotel to the standard; Items considered to be non-essential, such as alcohol, beverages, cigarettes, snacks, etc. |
| Hike to Kilimanjaro | |
The Rongai Route is a popular trekking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. The route is the only trail that begins from the northern side of the mountain, near the Kenyan border. Unlike other routes, Rongai offers trekkers a relatively unspoiled wilderness experience where it is possible to see large wildlife like antelope, elephants, and buffalo.
Altitude: 2,020 m → 2,650 m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 8 km
Habitat: Montane Forest
Your journey begins at the Nale Moru Gate on the remote northeastern side of the mountain. The trail climbs gently through fields and forest—expect to spot colobus monkeys, tropical birds, and panoramic views of mountain Kilimanjaro in Africa.
🛏️ Overnight: Simba Camp
Pro Tip: Take your time—this day sets the pace for the trek and lets your body adjust gently.
Altitude: 2,650 m → 3,450 m
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Distance: 11 km
Habitat: Moorland
The trail opens into wide moorlands with spectacular views of Mt Kilimanjaro peak and Kenya’s Amboseli Plains. You’ll cross rugged terrain and start to feel the effects of altitude.
🛏️ Overnight: Second Cave Camp
Fun Fact: This part of the route is less traveled—giving you a peaceful wilderness experience.
Altitude: 3,450 m → 3,870 m
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 9 km
Habitat: High Moorland
Today’s hike is shorter and perfect for acclimatization. The path winds through alpine desert landscapes with breathtaking views of the kilimanjaro volcano.
🛏️ Overnight: Third Cave Camp
Pro Tip: Eat well and rest up—you’re getting closer to summit night.
Altitude: 3,870 m → 4,700 m
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 5 km
Habitat: Alpine Desert
The landscape becomes harsh and barren as you approach Kibo Huts, your final camp before the summit attempt. The air is thinner, but the views are wider than ever.
🛏️ Overnight: Kibo Huts
Pro Tip: Prepare summit gear before sleeping—you’ll begin the ascent at midnight!
Altitude: 4,700 m → 5,895 m (Uhuru) → 3,720 m
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours up, 6–8 hours down
Distance: 4 km ascent, 15 km descent
Habitat: Arctic (summit), Moorland (descent)
Begin under the stars as you climb to Mount Kilimanjaro peak—Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa. After celebrating at the summit with sunrise views, descend back past Kibo to Horombo Huts.
🛏️ Overnight: Horombo Huts
Fun Fact: Uhuru means "freedom" in Swahili—standing here is truly liberating!
Altitude: 3,720 m → 1,980 m
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 20 km
Habitat: Rainforest
Celebrate your successful summit with a leisurely descent through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where your certificate awaits. Then transfer back to Moshi for a well-earned rest.
🛎️ Overnight: Comfortable hotel in Moshi
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to tip your porters and guides—they made this journey possible!
Now you’ve seen the full breakdown of the 6-day Rongai Route, it's time to take the next step toward conquering Mount Kilimanjaro Africa!
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 784 411 852
🔗 Visit Us: East Africa Safari Tanzania
👉 Let’s plan your tanzania climb kilimanjaro dream trip! Ask about adding a Northern Circuit safari for a complete Tanzania adventure.
Write Your Review