7 Days Rongai Route

OVERVIEW

The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro route that begins on the northern slope of the mountain. This remote side of Kilimanjaro receives fewer hikers, making it ideal for trekkers seeking a quieter, more secluded experience. Despite being less traveled, the route offers equally rewarding scenery compared to the popular southern and western approaches.

The drive to the trailhead at Nalemorú Gate takes approximately 3–4 hours from Moshi. Rongai is also unique in that it passes close to Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones and the third-highest peak in Africa. The descent follows the Marangu Route, allowing climbers to experience both the northern and southern sides of the mountain.

Both 6- and 7-day itineraries are available, with the 7-day option strongly recommended for improved acclimatization and a higher summit success rate.

Arrive in Tanzania

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Moshi town. Later, your guide will provide a detailed trek briefing and conduct a full equipment check to ensure you are well prepared for the climb.

Day 1 - Nalemoru Gate (1990 m) to Simba Camp (2570 m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Tropical rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Your guide and mountain support crew will meet you at the hotel for a short briefing before driving to Kilimanjaro National Park’s northern entrance at Nalemoru Gate. After completing registration and permit formalities, you begin trekking through coniferous forest on the northern slope of the mountain. The hike is moderate and unhurried, allowing for a comfortable start. Upon arrival at Simba Camp, tents will be set up and dinner prepared. Overnight at Simba Camp.

Day 2 - Simba Camp (2570 m) to Second Cave Camp (3450 m)

Distance covered: 5 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Continue ascending into the moorland zone toward Second Cave Camp. Along the way, enjoy expansive views of Kibo Peak and the eastern ice fields on the crater rim. Dinner and overnight at Second Cave Camp (3450 m).

Day 3 - Second Cave Camp (3480 m) to Kikelelwa Camp (3630 m)

Distance covered: 5 km
Approximate time taken: 3 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

A scenic day crossing open moorland with excellent views of Kibo and its eastern ice fields. The trail leads toward the jagged peaks of Mawenzi (5140 m), reaching Kikelelwa Camp in time for lunch and overnight rest.

Day 4 - Kikelelwa Camp (3630 m) to Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330 m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today involves a shorter but steeper climb up grassy slopes, rewarded with stunning panoramic views and a strong sense of wilderness. Mawenzi Tarn Hut is beautifully located in a cirque directly beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is free for rest or short acclimatization walks. Overnight at Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330 m).

Day 5 - Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330 m) to Kibo Hut (4700 m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Cross the vast, lunar-like Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This stark alpine desert leads to Kibo Hut, where you will rest, have lunch, and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.

Day 6 - Summit Day

Distance covered: 22 km
Approximate time taken: 13 hours
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

The summit ascent begins around midnight. This is the most demanding part of the trek, tackled at a slow and steady pace guided by your experienced mountain guide. After approximately five hours, you reach Gilman’s Point (5685 m) on the crater rim, where you pause briefly to enjoy sunrise over Mawenzi.

You then continue for about one hour to Uhuru Peak (5895 m), the highest point in Africa. After photos at the summit, descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and hot lunch before continuing down to Horombo Hut for dinner and overnight.

Day 7 - Horombo Hut (3720 m) to Marangu Gate (1860 m)

Distance covered: 20 km
Approximate time taken: 7 hours
Meal: Breakfast and lunch included

Descend through heath and moorland zones to Mandara Hut (2700 m) for lunch, then continue through lush tropical rainforest to Marangu Gate. After completing park formalities and receiving your summit certificates, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-earned shower and celebration.

Depart Tanzania / Other Destination in Tanzania

Later in the evening or the following day, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. Alternatively, we can arrange a cultural tour or safari to Tanzania’s top destinations, including Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park & Zanzibar.

Trek Pricing

Number of Travelers	Price per Person
1 Person	2350 USD
2 - 4 people	2290 USD
5 - 9 people	2200 USD
10+ people	2190 USD

Tipping Guidelines

Tips for porters / cooks ($10 – $15 per porter per day).
Tips for the guides ($20 – $25 per person per day or a group amount)

Climbing Cost Includes

2 nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
Group transport to and from Moshi to the trail head
Kilimanjaro National Park permits, camping/hut fees, rescue fees and Value Added Tax (VAT)
Expert guide, assistant guides, cook and porters
Bottled oxygen, for emergency rescue only
Four season, 3 person mountain tents, double occupancy
Sleeping pad, foam, 1.5 inches thick
Mess tents, tables, chairs, lanterns
Fresh, nutritious meals on the mountain
Breakfast at hotel