Six-Day Rongai route

6 days—A scenic and less-crowded northern approach offering a steady climb, diverse landscapes, and a high summit success rate

$2000-3000 USD

pp
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Safari summary

The 6-Day Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, close to the Kenyan border. It is known for being quiet, less crowded, and very scenic. The route offers gentle slopes in the beginning, making it one of the easier paths for acclimatization. Climbers enjoy beautiful views of Kenya’s plains, remote wilderness, and peaceful forests where wildlife is sometimes seen.

Your journey begins with a drive to the Rongai Gate, followed by a steady walk through rainforest and moorland zones. Camps are well spaced, allowing your body to adjust slowly as you move higher. The trail is dry compared to other routes, especially during rainy seasons, which makes it a great choice all year round.

On this route, you hike through Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most stunning campsites on the mountain, resting below the sharp peaks of Mawenzi. The landscape becomes more open as you climb toward Kibo Hut, the base for your summit attempt. From here, your ascent to Uhuru Peak begins at midnight. Although this is the toughest part, your guides will support you step by step. As the sun rises, the views over Mawenzi and the endless clouds are unforgettable.

Once you reach Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point at 5,895 meters—you celebrate a huge achievement. After taking photos and enjoying the moment, you descend to Horombo Hut and continue down the next day to Marangu Gate, where you receive your summit certificate.

The 6-Day Rongai Route is perfect for climbers who want a quieter trail, steady acclimatization, and a high chance of reaching the summit. With professional mountain guides, comfortable camps, and stunning views all around, this adventure offers a safe and memorable way to experience the beauty of Kilimanjaro.


About this tour

Tour type Custom, tailor-made, private
Main focus None
Activity level Strenuous activity
Best months All months
Countries
Parks

Fine details

Safari highlights
  • Bird watching—with professional guide
  • Hiking | trekking
  • Wildlife sanctuaries
What’s included?
  • Accommodation
  • Airport transfers
  • Meals
  • Park fees
  • Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • All drinks
  • Hot air balloons
  • Internal flights
  • International flights
  • Laundry
  • Premium alcoholic beverages
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Visas

Itinerary

Day 1: Rongai Gate & Simba camp

Your 6-day Kilimanjaro climb via Rongai Route begins in Arusha with a transfer to Rongai Gate (1,950m). Trek through lush rainforests to Simba Camp (2,600m), enjoying views of the northern slopes and spotting colobus monkeys. Your guide will brief you on Mount Kilimanjaro altitude and acclimatization techniques.

Simba camp

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave

Trek from Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450m), passing through moorland with stunning views of Kibo Peak. This gradual ascent aids acclimatization, crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro climb for beginners. Enjoy a hot lunch at camp and rest for the next day’s trek.

Second cave

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Cam

Continue to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m), trekking through heath and moorland zones. The trail offers panoramic views of the eastern slopes and distant Kenyan plains. This day focuses on acclimatization, with your Kilimanjaro guide and porters team ensuring a steady pace.

Kikelewa Camp

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi

Trek to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m), a stunning campsite beneath Mawenzi Peak. The alpine desert landscape offers dramatic scenery, and this shorter day allows time for rest and acclimatization, critical for the Uhuru Peak trekking experience.

Mawenzi tent

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Cross the lunar-like Saddle to Kibo Hut (4,700m), preparing for the summit push. The trek offers breathtaking views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Rest early at Kibo Hut to conserve energy for the midnight summit attempt.

Kibo Hut

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak

Begin the summit ascent at midnight, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681m) by sunrise, then Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Celebrate your achievement before descending via the Marangu Route to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for your final night on the mountain.

Lodge

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