Itinerary
Overview
Remote & Scenic Climb to Africa’s Summit
The Rongai Route stands out as one of Mount Kilimanjaro’s quieter, most picturesque paths to the summit. Kicking off on the northern side near the Kenyan border, it delivers a peaceful trek with jaw-dropping views—perfect for anyone craving solitude and raw beauty. Unlike the bustling southern trails, Rongai gives you a fresh angle on Kilimanjaro, starting from the remote north and winding down via the Marangu Route for a mix of perspectives. This 6-day climb strikes a balance—moderately tough, with solid acclimatization windows and a strong shot at the top. If a serene yet epic ascent is your vibe, Rongai’s got you covered.
The Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trek is your ticket to a less-traveled, visually stunning, and just-right challenging climb. With tranquil trails, killer scenery, and a high summit success rate, this 6-day journey to Africa’s tallest peak is one you won’t forget. What’s pulling you in—the quiet or those views?
Itinerary
Day by day
Day 1: Arrival in Moshi and Transfer to Rongai Gate
Day 2: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp (2,800m/9,200ft)
Begin the climb through the rainforest, passing through the village of Nale Moru. The trail is relatively easy, with a gradual incline, and the scenery is stunning, with towering trees and exotic plants. Stop for lunch at the Simba Camp, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The camp is located near a natural spring, providing a refreshing stop for the night.
Distance: 8km/5miTime: 4-5 hoursElevation gain: 440m/1,440ftAccommodation: Simba CampMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the mountainActivities: Climbing, sightseeingDay 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave (3,450m/11,300ft)
Continue ascending through the moorland zone, with breathtaking views of the Kibo peak. The terrain becomes more rugged, with rocky outcroppings and scrubby vegetation. Stop for lunch at the Second Cave, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The cave is a natural rock formation, providing a unique spot to rest and take in the views.
Distance: 6km/3.7miTime: 4-5 hoursElevation gain: 650m/2,130ftAccommodation: Second Cave CampMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the mountainActivities: Climbing, sightseeingDay 4: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m/11,800ft)
Climb through the alpine desert zone, with unique vegetation and stunning views. The trail becomes steeper, with a more dramatic incline, but the scenery is breathtaking. Stop for lunch at the Kikelewa Camp, with views of the surrounding landscape. The camp is located near a natural spring, providing a refreshing stop for the night.
Distance: 5km/3.1miTime: 3-4 hoursElevation gain: 150m/490ftAccommodation: Kikelewa CampMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the mountainActivities: Climbing, sightseeingDay 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn (4,300m/14,100ft)
Ascend to the Mawenzi Tarn, a beautiful glacial lake with stunning views. The trail becomes more challenging, with a steeper incline, but the scenery is breathtaking. Explore the surrounding area and take in the views of the lake and the surrounding peaks.
Distance: 6km/3.7miTime: 4-5 hoursElevation gain: 700m/2,300ftAccommodation: Mawenzi Tarn CampMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the mountainActivities: Climbing, sightseeingDay 6: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Camp (4,700m/15,400ft)
Climb to the Kibo Camp, the last stop before the summit. The trail becomes even steeper, with a more dramatic incline, but the scenery is breathtaking. Rest and prepare for the summit attempt, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Distance: 8km/5miTime: 5-6 hoursElevation gain: 400m/1,310ftAccommodation: Kibo CampMeals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the mountainActivities: Climbing, sightseeingDay 7: Summit Day!
The final day! Begin the ascent to the summit (5,895m/19,341ft) at midnight, using headlamps to navigate the dark terrain. Watch the sunrise from the summit and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Descend to the Kibo Camp for breakfast and then to the Mweka Gate (1,640m/5,380ft).
Distance: 20km/12.4miTime: 12-14 hoursElevation gain: 1,195m/3,921ftAccommodation: None (return to Moshi)Meals: Breakfast and lunch on the mountainActivities: Climbing, sightseeingWhat's Included?
- 7-day climb with experienced guides and porters
- Transportation from Moshi to Rongai Gate and back
- Accommodation in Moshi and on the mountain
- Meals and snacks on the mountain
- Park fees and permits
What's Excluded?
- Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Travel insurance
- Personal gear and equipment
- Tips for guides and porters
Rates
Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently
