The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s only trail approaching the mountain from the remote northern side, near the Kenyan border. This 7-day trek is celebrated for its gentle gradients, drier climate, and low traffic, making it an excellent choice for trekkers seeking a quieter, more gradual ascent with strong acclimatization benefits. The route offers expansive views across the Kenyan plains and Kilimanjaro’s seldom-seen northern slopes.
Beginning through cultivated farmland and forest, the trek gradually transitions into moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit zones. Wildlife sightings are more common here than on southern routes, and the peaceful atmosphere allows climbers to fully immerse themselves in the mountain’s raw beauty. The longer, steadier ascent increases comfort and reduces altitude-related challenges.
Summit night leads to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via Kibo Hut, where climbers witness an unforgettable sunrise from the Roof of Africa. Descent follows the Marangu Route, offering varied scenery and a comfortable return through heathland and rainforest. This combination of solitude, scenery, and steady progression makes the Rongai Route ideal for both first-time climbers and seasoned adventurers.
Can start any day a Client Chooses
7 Days Kilimanjaro Trek
High Challenge Adventure
Private or Group Tour
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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
Continue climbing through the moorland toward Kikelewa Camp. The trail is moderate and scenic, with views of rugged Mawenzi Peak in the distance. Vegetation becomes sparse as altitude increases. Camp in a small, sheltered valley surrounded by towering ridges. Dinner and overnight at Kikelewa Camp.
Accommodation: Camping
Today’s trek is shorter but steeper, climbing grassy slopes and rocky ridges toward Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. The dramatic scenery provides one of the most beautiful campsites on Kilimanjaro. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing or exploring nearby ridges.
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
INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro trail that approaches
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INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Northern Circuit Route is Mount Kilimanjaro’s longest and most
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INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Lemosho Route is widely regarded as one of the
INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Lemosho Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic trails,
INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Machame Route, also known as the “Whiskey Route,” is
INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Marangu Route, also known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” is
INQUIRE NOW WHATSAPP CHAT General Information Day to Day Itinerary View Similar Trips Overview The Machame Route, also called the “Whiskey Route,” is one
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