Trek Kilimanjaro in 6 days via the quiet northern Rongai Route, with a gentle gradient and some of the driest conditions on the mountain.
About this tour
Mount Kilimanjaro Trek via Rongai Route (6 Days)
The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. It is the only route that starts on this side of the mountain, so it is much quieter than the southern routes and has a gentle, steady gradient.
The northern slopes receive less rain, which makes Rongai a popular choice during wetter months. You trek through farmland and pine forest, cross open moorland, and approach the summit from the east before descending by the Marangu Route.
Highlights
- Quiet northern approach with fewer trekkers
- Gentle gradient and generally drier weather
- Wilderness views and a different perspective of the mountain
- Experienced local guides and a full support crew
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 1 Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Rongai Gate (1,950 m) to Simba Camp (2,625 m). About 4 to 5 hours through farmland and pine forest.
Day 2 Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 m). About 6 to 7 hours across open moorland.
Day 3 Day 3: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m). About 4 to 5 hours with views of the jagged Mawenzi peak.
Day 4 Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Camp
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Camp (4,700 m) across the Saddle. Early dinner and rest before the summit push.
Day 5 Day 5: Summit Day, Uhuru Peak
Start around midnight to Gilman's Point and Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), then descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 m).
Day 6 Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, then transfer to Moshi.
Your safari at a glance
What's included
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off, plus transfers to and from the park gate
- All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, rescue fees and VAT
- Camping fees and sleeping tents, dining tent, tables, and chairs
- Licensed mountain guides, cook, and porters, including their wages
- Three meals a day on the mountain, hot drinks, and treated drinking water
- Foam sleeping mattress
- First aid kit, pulse oximeter checks, and emergency oxygen
- Pre-climb briefing and gear check in Moshi
- Summit certificate for those who reach Stella Point or Uhuru Peak
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa and travel or medical insurance
- Tips for the guides, cook, and porters
- Personal gear, equipment rental, and personal expenses
- Hotel accommodation, drinks, and meals in Moshi before and after the trek
- Optional upgrades (private tent, thicker mattress, private toilet)
Important information
- Uhuru Peak is 5,895 m (19,341 ft). Altitude affects everyone, so fitness, a slow pace, and a positive attitude matter.
- A pre-climb briefing and gear check is held the evening before the trek begins.
- Tips are paid at the end of the trek. A common guide is USD 20 to 25 per day for the lead guide, 15 to 20 for the assistant guide, 12 to 15 for the cook, and 8 to 10 per porter, shared by the group.
- Travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking is strongly recommended.
- Bring warm layers, waterproof jacket and trousers, broken-in hiking boots, gloves, a warm hat, a headlamp, trekking poles, and a sleeping bag (rental is available).
- Private tour: the climb can start any day of the year and the itinerary can be adjusted.
Best time to travel
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