The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro trail that approaches the mountain from the remote northern side, near the Kenyan border. This 6-day itinerary offers a quieter and less crowded climbing experience, ideal for trekkers seeking a steady ascent, open landscapes, and a more peaceful journey to the summit. The route’s gentle gradients and dry climate make it especially favorable during the rainy seasons.
The trek begins through farmland and forest, gradually transitioning into moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zones. As you ascend, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with sweeping views across the Kenyan plains and the striking spires of Mawenzi Peak. Wildlife sightings are more common on this route, adding to the sense of wilderness and isolation.
Summit night follows a direct ascent from Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), where climbers are rewarded with a spectacular sunrise from the Roof of Africa. Descent via the Marangu Route provides a comfortable and scenic return through heathland and rainforest. This 6-day Rongai itinerary is best suited for confident trekkers looking for a shorter, adventurous climb with authentic wilderness appeal.
Can start any day a Client Chooses
6 Days Kilimanjaro Trek
High Challenge Adventure
Private or Group Tour
English, Chinese, Spanish, French
Lunch, Snacks, Water and Soda
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our driver will meet and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing and gear inspection. Spend the evening preparing for the adventure ahead.
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more
After breakfast, drive to Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border for registration. Begin your trek through cultivated fields and forested slopes alive with colobus monkeys. The path is gentle and quiet, offering the first views of Kilimanjaro’s summit. Arrive at Simba Camp, located at the edge of the moorland zone, for dinner and overnight under the stars.
Accommodation: Camping
Trek gradually upward through open moorland with incredible views of Kibo’s eastern ice fields. The terrain transitions from lush forest to heather and volcanic rock. Arrive at Second Cave Camp for lunch and an afternoon acclimatization walk. The peaceful northern route ensures a serene trekking experience. Dinner and overnight at camp.
Accommodation: Camping
The landscape becomes increasingly alpine as you climb toward Mawenzi Tarn Camp. Enjoy spectacular views of the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is reserved for rest and acclimatization in this dramatic high-altitude setting.
Accommodation: Camping
Cross the high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The landscape is stark but awe-inspiring, with endless views and thin air testing your endurance. Arrive at Kibo Hut early in the afternoon, rest, and prepare for the summit attempt. Eat dinner early and sleep before midnight wake-up for your final ascent.
Accommodation: Camping
Begin your summit push around midnight, trekking slowly under the stars to Gilman’s Point (5,685m). Continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend to Kibo for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved sleep.
Accommodation: Camping
Descend through moorland and lush rainforest filled with wildlife and birdlife. Arrive at Marangu Gate by midday, collect your summit certificate, and meet your driver for the transfer to Moshi. Enjoy a hot shower, celebration dinner, and relaxation at your hotel.
Accommodation: Budget, Midrange, or Luxury in Moshi Town
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is one of the first truly 4-stars boutique hotels in Moshi which provide great ambience and facilities. Located 4km from the Town of Moshi, 45 km away from Kilimanjaro national park, 40km away from the Kilimanjaro International airport. Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is ideally located for all those that visit Moshi Town for adventure seeking or for business travel. Click here to learn more
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