The Rongai Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side of the mountain, near the Kenyan border in northern Tanzania. It offers quieter trekking trails and spectacular views of the majestic Mawenzi Peak.
This itinerary aims to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa, without an overnight stay at Crater Camp.
Basic Information
Distance | About 177,165 feet |
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Elevation difference | About 9,186 feet |
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Start | Rongai Gate |
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Goal | Marang Gate |
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Duration: 8 Days (Arrival Day Not Included)
Route: Rongai Route
Summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)
Descent Route: Marangu Route
Accommodation: Mountain Camps, Kibo Hut, and Moshi Hotel
Tour Overview
Experience an unforgettable Mount Kilimanjaro climbing adventure via the Rongai Route in Tanzania.
Approaching Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border, the Rongai Route offers beautiful wilderness scenery, quieter trails, and spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak.
During this 8-day trek, you will pass through forests, moorlands, and alpine desert landscapes before attempting to reach Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters.
This itinerary does not include an overnight stay at Crater Camp. The arrival day in Tanzania is not included in the 8-day trekking itinerary, and an overnight stay in Moshi before the climb is required.
Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp (2,650 m)
After breakfast in Moshi, transfer to Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border. Complete the registration procedures and begin your Kilimanjaro trek through pine forest and beautiful wilderness landscapes.
Continue climbing gradually toward Simba Camp, where you will spend your first night on the mountain.
Hiking time: Approximately 3–5 hours
Accommodation: Simba Camp
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)
After breakfast, continue trekking through open moorland as the forest gradually gives way to alpine vegetation. Enjoy the changing scenery and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Arrive at Second Cave Camp in the afternoon and relax before dinner.
Hiking time: Approximately 3–5 hours
Accommodation: Second Cave Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 3: Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m)
Continue toward the eastern slopes of Mawenzi Peak, walking through open alpine terrain with impressive mountain views.
The trail becomes more remote as you approach Kikelewa Camp. Enjoy dinner and rest overnight.
Hiking time: Approximately 3–4 hours
Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)
Today's trek takes you up grassy slopes toward the spectacular Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located beneath the dramatic rock formations of Mawenzi Peak.
After arriving at camp, take time to rest and acclimatize to the increasing altitude.
Hiking time: Approximately 3–5 hours
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Cross the alpine desert known as the Saddle, situated between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks.
Continue toward Kibo Hut, the base camp for your summit attempt. After an early dinner, prepare your equipment and rest before the midnight departure.
Hiking time: Approximately 4–6 hours
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Begin your summit attempt around midnight, ascending toward Gilman's Point on the crater rim. Continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa at 5,895 meters.
Celebrate your achievement and take photographs at the summit before descending to Kibo Hut for a short rest. Continue down to Horombo Hut for your overnight stay.
This is the most challenging day of the trek, requiring endurance and careful attention to altitude and weather conditions.
Hiking time: Approximately 12–16 hours
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and Moshi
After breakfast, descend through the moorland and rainforest zones toward Marangu Gate.
Complete the park formalities and receive your summit certificate if eligible. Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi.
Hiking time: Approximately 5–7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
What Is Included?
Kilimanjaro National Park fees
Mountain camping and hut accommodation
Professional mountain guides and assistant guides
Porters and mountain cook
Meals during the trek
Drinking water during the climb
Camping equipment
Transfers to and from the mountain
Moshi hotel accommodation as specified in the quotation
Summit certificate, subject to achievement
What Is Not Included?
International flights
Tanzania visa
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking
Personal trekking equipment
Tips for guides, porters, and the cook
Additional accommodation or meals not specified in the package
Personal expenses
Important Information
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is physically demanding, and reaching Uhuru Peak is not guaranteed. The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather conditions, trail conditions, and the group's health and safety.
We recommend preparing physically before the climb, bringing suitable mountain clothing, and following your guide's instructions throughout the trek.
