The 6-day Rongai Route on Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular and scenic alternative to the more traditional routes. Starting from the northern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border, this route offers a quieter, less crowded experience as it ascends through lush montane forest, open grasslands, and moorlands. Over the course of six days, trekkers enjoy stunning views of the mountain’s eastern slopes and surrounding landscapes. While the Rongai Route is more gradual in its ascent, it still provides excellent opportunities for proper acclimatization. The trek culminates at Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro, at 5,895 meters. The route is considered a great option for those looking for a rewarding and relatively less challenging way to reach the summit.
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi. Take the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for your upcoming adventure in Tanzania. Your journey into the heart of this incredible destination is about to begin!
We will drive to Nale Moru village, where the Rongai route starts. The first part of the hike takes us through farmland and pine forests. Along the way, you might see Colobus monkeys, and if you’re lucky, elephants or buffaloes. Our first camp will be at Simba Camp, located at the edge of the moorland zone at 2625m.
Today we’ll hike steadily up to the Second Cave Camp, situated in the moorland zone. From here, we’ll enjoy fantastic views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields. After lunch, we continue our ascent through more moorland, with stunning views of both Kibo and the Mawenzi peaks. Our camp for the night will be at the Second Cave Camp, at an altitude of 3630m, in a sheltered valley.
Today we’ll hike from the Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp. The journey begins with a steady climb through moorland, offering beautiful views of Kibo and the Mawenzi peaks along the way. After reaching Kikelewa Camp, at an altitude of 3630m, we’ll settle in for the night in a sheltered valley near the Kikelewa caves.
Today is a shorter, steeper hike up grassy slopes, giving us amazing views of the Kenyan plains. We’ll reach Mawenzi Tarn Hut, at 4310m, below the towering Mawenzi cliffs. In the afternoon, you can rest or explore the area to help with acclimatization.
We’ll leave Mawenzi Tarn and cross the ‘saddle’ desert, the flat area between Mawenzi and Kibo. After a few hours, we’ll reach Kibo Hut, at 4700m. This is where we’ll rest and prepare for the final summit attempt, with an early night ahead.
Summit Day starts very early (around midnight) with a climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. The first part of the climb is steep and difficult, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning views as you ascend through the night. You’ll pass Gilman’s Point at around 5,681 meters, and from there, it’s a final push to the summit. Once you reach Uhuru Peak, you’ll have time to celebrate and take photos before beginning the descent. The descent is quicker but still requires focus, as you make your way back to Horombo Hut for rest.
Trek Time: 11-14 hours (Summit Day)
Altitude Gain: 1,195 meters to summit, then descend 2,175 meters
On the final day, you’ll descend from Horombo Hut back to Marangu Gate. The descent takes you through lush forests once again. Once you reach the gate, you’ll complete your climb by signing out and receiving your certificate (depending on whether you reached Gilman’s Point or Uhuru Peak). Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved rest and celebration.
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Altitude Loss: 1,850 meters
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 miles
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