6 Days Rongai Route Trekking

Overview

Why Rongai Route?

The Rongai Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s lesser-traveled paths, offering a unique ascent from the north with stunning wilderness and fewer crowds. This route is ideal for those seeking a quieter trek and an opportunity to encounter wildlife, with the possibility of spotting elephants and buffalo. Though considered one of the easier routes, the Rongai does not offer the “climb high, sleep low” acclimatization strategy, so additional days are recommended for optimal adjustment.

6 Days / 7 Nights Trekking

Medium

12 Years Old

Full itinerary

Day to Day Itineray

Day 0: Arrival

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to Moshi for overnight accommodation. Meet with your head guide for a trek briefing, gear check, and any necessary rental arrangements.

Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast

Day 1: Nale Muru Gate to Simba Camp

Begin with a scenic drive through Nale Muru village to Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. After completing permit formalities, trek through lush rainforest to Simba Camp at the edge of the moorland zone, offering stunning views over the Kenyan plains.

Distance: 7 km / 5 mi
Duration: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation: 1,997 m / 6,552 ft to 2,635 m / 8,645 ft
Altitude Gain: 638 m
Overnight: Simba Camp

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

A steady ascent through the moorland brings views of Kibo Peak and the Eastern ice fields. As vegetation thins, you’ll reach Second Cave Camp, where temperatures begin to drop as you near higher altitudes.

Distance: 5.8 km / 3.6 mi
Duration: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Moorland
Elevation: 2,635 m / 8,645 ft to 3,487 m / 11,440 ft
Altitude Gain: 852 m
Overnight: Second Cave Camp

Day 3: Second Cave Camp to Third Cave Camp

A shorter trek day in semi-desert terrain, with the mesmerizing views of the Eastern ice fields drawing you closer to Kilimanjaro’s upper reaches. Be sure to communicate any symptoms of altitude sickness with your guide.

Distance: 3.3 km / 2 mi
Duration: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Semi-Desert
Elevation: 3,487 m / 11,440 ft to 3,936 m / 12,913 ft
Altitude Gain: 449 m
Overnight: Third Cave Camp

Day 4: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn (4,300 meters)

Your journey continues through the sparse Alpine Desert, arriving at Kibo Huts near the crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent preparing for your midnight summit attempt, ensuring your gear is ready and recharging headlamp batteries for the challenging night ahead.

Distance: 6.7 km / 4.2 mi
Duration: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert
Elevation: 3,936 m / 12,913 ft to 5,174 m / 16,975 ft
Altitude Gain: 1,238 m
Overnight: Kibo Huts

Day 5: Kibo Huts to Uhuru Peak (Summit) and Descent to Horombo Huts

A midnight start begins your summit journey past the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers, eventually reaching Stella Point with a breathtaking sunrise. After a short break, continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. Celebrate this incredible achievement before a steep descent to Horombo Huts for a well-deserved rest.

Ascent: 4 km / 2.5 mi | 5-7 hours
Descent: 15.75 km / 9.8 mi | 5-6 hours
Habitat: Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit
Elevation Gain: 721 m to reach 5,895 m / 19,341 ft
Elevation Loss: 2,174 m
Overnight: Horombo Huts

Day 6: Horombo Huts to Marangu Gate

A final descent through lush rainforest brings you to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate and say goodbye to your crew. A transfer will take you back to Moshi for a relaxing hot shower, dinner, and celebration.

Distance: 20 km / 12.5 mi
Duration: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Rainforest
Elevation Loss: 1,816 m
Accommodation: Hotel in Moshi

This Rongai Route itinerary combines unique landscapes, quieter paths, and rewarding summit views for an unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

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Includes

Airport transfers and two-night hotel stay in Moshi
Mountain transfers and sleeping bag
Professional Kilimanjaro guides, porters, and cooks (salaries and park fees covered)
Four-season, waterproof tents (twin-sharing) with sleeping mattresses
Emergency oxygen and nutritious meals on the mountain
Purified drinking water and mess tents with tables and chairs
Kilimanjaro park fees, including conservation, camping, rescue, and 18% VAT
Kilimanjaro summit certificate