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6 Days Rongai Route
Overview
The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, offering a quieter and less-trodden path to the summit. Ideal for those seeking solitude, scenic diversity, and better conditions during the rainy season, Rongai is a favorite for adventurous trekkers.
Though less steep than other routes, Rongai offers a gradual ascent, making it a great choice for first-time climbers and those who prefer a remote experience. The 6-day itinerary allows for a direct but manageable climb, while the 7-day option adds an acclimatization day for higher success rates.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 0: Arrival in Arusha or Moshi
You’ll be met at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) by a KLA representative and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, meet your guide for a detailed briefing, gear inspection, and final trek preparations.
Day 1: Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave Camp
- Elevation: ~2,000m to 2,600m
- Hiking Time: 4–5 hours After registration at Marangu Gate, a short transfer takes you to the Rongai Trailhead. The trek begins through maize and potato fields before entering the lush forest, where sightings of black-and-white colobus monkeys are common. Arrive at Rongai Cave Camp for dinner and overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Rongai Cave Camp
Day 2: Rongai Cave to Kikelelwa Camp (via Second Cave)
- Elevation: 2,600m to 3,600m
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours Start with a gradual hike to Second Cave before veering off the main trail toward Mawenzi’s jagged peaks. The trail passes through open moorland with sweeping views before reaching Kikelelwa Camp tucked beneath towering ridges. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Kikelelwa Camp
Day 3: Kikelelwa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
- Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
- Hiking Time: 3–4 hours A short, steep climb brings you into the alpine desert zone, where vegetation thins and the landscape becomes raw and dramatic. Set
- up camp beneath the spires of Mawenzi Peak at the picturesque Mawenzi Tarn. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the surroundings. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours Trek across the Saddle, a broad alpine desert that connects Mawenzi and Kibo. The climb is gradual but the altitude makes it challenging. Arrive at Kibo Hut, base camp for your summit attempt, where you’ll eat early and rest before the midnight climb. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Kibo Hut
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Down to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720m
- Hiking Time: 13–15 hours total Just after midnight, begin your summit push through scree and ice fields. Reach Gilman’s Point (5,685m) for an unforgettable sunrise, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point. After photos and celebration, descend to Horombo Hut for a well-deserved rest. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Horombo Hut
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Elevation: 3,720m to 1,980m
- Hiking Time: 6–7 hours Descend through the rainforest, with one last chance to enjoy Kilimanjaro’s lower ecosystem. At Marangu Gate, collect your summit certificate. Your KLA driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. Meals: Breakfast