7-Day Rongai Route
Approach Mount Kilimanjaro from its quieter northern side on a route known for open views, a more remote atmosphere and a different perspective of the mountain. The Rongai Route begins near the Kenyan border and climbs gradually through forest, heath and alpine terrain before joining the summit trail near Kibo.
With fewer trekkers on the early stages and a steady ascent profile, Rongai offers a calmer alternative to Kilimanjaro’s busier southern routes. The journey combines spacious landscapes, views toward Kenya and a memorable summit approach before descending through the greener southern side of the mountain.
Your Journey at a Glance
Day 1: Rongai Gate → Simba Camp
Day 2: Simba Camp → Second Cave Camp
Day 3: Second Cave → Kikelewa Camp
Day 4: Kikelewa → Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut
Day 6: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate
BOOK NOW
detailed itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Gate → Simba Camp
Begin the climb from Rongai Gate on Kilimanjaro’s northern side, where the trail feels noticeably quieter and more remote. Walk through forest and open woodland as the route gradually gains elevation. Arrive at Simba Camp for your first night on the mountain.
Overnight: Simba Camp
Day 2: Simba Camp → Second Cave Camp
Continue steadily upward through heath and moorland as the landscape becomes increasingly open. Views toward Kenya and the northern slopes begin to widen around you. Reach Second Cave Camp and settle in for a relaxed evening.
Overnight: Second Cave Camp
Day 3: Second Cave → Kikelewa Camp
Leave Second Cave and continue across more rugged moorland toward Kikelewa. The trail becomes quieter and the scenery more dramatic as Mawenzi begins to dominate the horizon. Arrive at camp with time to rest and enjoy the remote setting.
Overnight: Kikelewa Camp
Day 4: Kikelewa → Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Climb toward Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most striking camps on Kilimanjaro. The surrounding landscape is rugged and dramatic, with Mawenzi’s jagged peaks rising above the camp. The shorter walking day also provides useful time for acclimatization and rest.
Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut
Cross the broad alpine saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, entering a stark high-altitude landscape with very little vegetation. The trail is steady but exposed, giving you a strong sense of Kilimanjaro’s scale. Arrive at Kibo Hut and rest early in preparation for the summit attempt.
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Day 6: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut
Begin the summit climb during the night, ascending toward Gilman’s Point before continuing around the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Reach Africa’s highest point as morning light spreads across the glaciers and surrounding plains. After celebrating at the summit, descend through Kibo and continue to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate
Descend through moorland and rainforest toward Marangu Gate, where the climb officially comes to an end. The landscape becomes greener and warmer as you lose altitude. Meet your transfer at the gate and return to Arusha or Moshi.
Climb Ends: Marangu Gate
INCLUSIONS
Safari Includes
- All Park Fees
- All transportation
- Professional private safari guide
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Government taxes and VAT
Safari Excludes
- International flights
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips
- Personal items
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees