The best Kilimanjaro six days
6 days—The Rongai Route is one of the less crowded and quieter paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania in 2025/ 2026
$1800-2500 USD
pp
Safari summary
The Rongai Route is one of the less crowded and quieter paths to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania. It approaches the mountain from the northeastern side and offers stunning views of both Kenya and Tanzania as you ascend. The typical duration for a Rongai Route climb is 6 days, which provides a good balance of acclimatization and altitude gain.
The Rongai Route is a captivating 6-day trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, starting from the northeastern side and providing a unique perspective of the mountain. The best time to embark on this adventure is during the dry seasons of January to March and June to October, when weather conditions are more favorable. With a summit success rate of around 85–90%, the route offers a good chance of reaching Uhuru Peak. The cost of this expedition varies depending on tour operators and inclusions, typically ranging from $1,800 to $2,500. The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, Tanzania, and you'll be driven to the Rongai Gate to begin your ascent. At the end of the trek, you'll be dropped off at your accommodation. It's crucial to note that prices, success rates, and conditions can vary and are essential for a successful and safe climb.
About this tour
Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
Main focus | Hiking | trekking | |
Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
Best months | All months | |
Countries | ||
Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Walking safari—with armed guard
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- All drinks
- Internal flights
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Internal flights
- Laundry
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Spa treatments
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Distance: approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles). Altitude: From around 1,950 meters (6,398 feet) to 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) Terrain: The trail starts in a forested area and gradually climbs through the rainforest zone. Highlights: As you hike, you'll enjoy the lush surroundings and the opportunity to spot some wildlife. The hike is relatively gentle on this day, allowing for a good warm-up.
Simba Camp
Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
Distance: approximately 6.5 kilometers (4 miles). Altitude: From 2,650 meters (8,694 feet) to 3,450 meters (11,319 feet) Terrain: The trail continues through the rainforest, transitioning into moorland as you ascend. Highlights: This is a shorter hiking day, allowing for more acclimatization. The views of the surrounding landscape become more expansive as you leave the forested areas behind.
Second Cave Camp
From Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa
Distance: approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles). Altitude: From 3,450 meters (11,319 feet) to 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) Terrain: The trail takes you through moorland and alpine desert, with some steep sections. Highlights: The hike offers stunning vistas of the Kibo Crater and the eastern ice fields. The higher altitude begins to become more noticeable, and proper acclimatization is crucial.
Kikelewa Camp
Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Distance: approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles). Altitude: From 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) to 4,315 meters (14,160 feet) Terrain: The path takes you through steep sections and rocky terrain. Highlights: Mawenzi Tarn Camp is located near a small glacial lake at the base of Mawenzi Peak. The views from this rugged peak are breathtaking. This day's hike aids in further acclimatization.
Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
Distance: approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles). Altitude: From 4,315 meters (14,160 feet) to 4,703 meters (15,430 feet) Terrain: The trail traverses across alpine desert and rocky terrain. Highlights: As you approach Kibo Hut, you'll see the impressive glaciers and ice fields of Kilimanjaro. This is the base camp for the final ascent to the summit, and you'll rest here to prepare for the summit push.
Kibo Hut
Summit Day (Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak)
Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) of ascent and 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) of descent to Horombo Hut Altitude: From 4,703 meters (15,430 feet) to 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) at Uhuru Peak, then descending to 3,720 meters (12,205 feet) at Horombo Hut The summit push starts around midnight to reach Uhuru Peak for sunrise. You'll witness breathtaking views from the roof of Africa. After celebrating your achievement, you'll descend to Horombo Hut for some well-deserved rest.
Here are the latest 6 tours by Razan Safaris. See all 83 tours.
Fourteen days Tanzania safari
Tour by: Razan Safaris
Countries:
Focus: Game drives
Full day trip to Katavi
Tour by: Razan Safaris
Countries:
Focus: Game drives
Ruaha Day Safari From Iringa
Tour by: Razan Safaris
Countries:
Focus: Game drives
Best Time to vist Ngorongoro
Tour by: Razan Safaris
Countries:
Focus: Game drives
Two day Tanzania group Joining
Tour by: Razan Safaris
Countries:
Focus: Game drives
Tanzania Budget Group Joining
Tour by: Razan Safaris
Countries:
Focus: Game drives
Cleanliness of vehicle
Meet and greet team
Quality of itinerary
Responsiveness of staff