The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the remote northern slopes near the Kenyan border. With gentle gradients and minimal traffic, this route is perfect for trekkers who prefer solitude and a steady acclimatization profile. The 6-day version crosses moorlands, dramatic rocky landscapes, and the beautiful Mawenzi Tarn before joining the Marangu descent route. Rongai is especially suitable for beginners, dry-season climbs, and anyone looking for a peaceful path to Uhuru Peak.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Nalemoru → Simba
Day 2: Simba → Second Cave
Day 3: Second Cave → Kikelewa
Day 4: Kikelewa → Mawenzi Tarn
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo
Day 6: Summit → Horombo → Marangu Gate
Rongai Route 6 Days – Kilimanjaro Climb from the Northern Slopes
PRICE PER PERSON
2 Persons
4 Persons
6 Persons
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
Day 1: Nalemoru Gate to Simba Camp
Start with a gentle hike through farmlands and forest, with chances to spot colobus monkeys. The trail climbs steadily to Simba Camp with views north toward Kenya.
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
Walk through open moorland on a gradual ascent, enjoying wide views of Mawenzi Peak. Arrive at Second Cave, a scenic, breezy campsite.
Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
Continue upward across rugged terrain toward the beautiful Kikelewa Valley. Your camp sits beneath dramatic rock formations and offers excellent acclimatization.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
A steep climb leads you to Mawenzi Tarn, one of Kilimanjaro’s most stunning campsites. Nestled beneath Mawenzi’s jagged volcanic spires, this is a highlight of the entire route.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Cross the alpine desert that separates Mawenzi from Kibo. The vast, open saddle provides surreal scenery as you approach Kibo Hut, the base for your summit attempt.
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, Descend to Marangu Gate
Begin your midnight ascent to reach Uhuru Peak at dawn. Celebrate your achievement, then descend via Horombo Hut and continue to Marangu Gate for completion certificates.
INCLUDES:
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Professional, English-speaking mountain guides certified in WFR (Wilderness First Responder) or equivalent
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Experienced assistant guides, cooks, and porters
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All park fees & taxes, including:
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Kilimanjaro National Park entrance fees
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Camping or hut fees
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Rescue fees
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All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
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Fresh, hot meals prepared daily
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Dietary options available (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, etc.)
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Purified drinking water throughout the climb
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High-quality mountain tents (4-season, all-weather)
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Comfortable sleeping mats
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Dining tent, dining table, chairs
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Private mobile toilet tent (on request or included depending on package level)
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All group equipment, including:
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Cooking equipment
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Utensils
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Safety gear
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Emergency oxygen cylinder
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First-aid kit with pulse oximeter
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Daily health checks for acclimatization monitoring
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Fair porter wages and ethical standards (KPAP compliant option available)
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Hotel accommodation before and after the climb (package-dependent)
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Private transport to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
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Certificate of achievement for reaching Gilman’s Point, Stella Point, or Uhuru Peak
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Meet-and-greet support upon arrival
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Luggage storage during the climb
EXCLUDES:
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International flights
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Tanzania entry visa
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Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
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Personal trekking gear, including:
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Sleeping bag
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Hiking boots
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Trekking poles
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Clothing layers
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Headlamp
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Personal toiletries
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Snacks or energy supplements (chocolate, energy bars, gels)
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Alcoholic and soft drinks at hotels or on the mountain
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Private portable toilet (if not included in your package)
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Personal medical supplies
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Tips for the mountain crew (industry standard: $250–$300 per climber)
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Additional nights at hotels before/after the climb (unless included)
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Evacuation by helicopter (covered only if your insurance includes high-altitude rescue)
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Items of personal nature (laundry, phone charging, souvenirs)