The Rongai Route is one of the less crowded trekking routes on Mount Kilimanjaro, offering a unique ascent from the northern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border. The route is renowned for its easier gradient and relatively gentle climb, making it a good option for trekkers who prefer a less challenging and quieter experience. It provides stunning views of the eastern glaciers, wildlife, and the surrounding landscapes, passing through forests, moorland, and alpine desert. The trek usually takes 7 days, allowing for proper acclimatization and a high summit success rate. The ascent is followed by a descent through the Marangu Route, providing climbers with diverse perspectives of the mountain. The Rongai Route is an ideal choice for those seeking a more peaceful Kilimanjaro trek, with moderate difficulty and beautiful, varied scenery.
Starting from Nalemoru Gate, trekkers begin the ascent through dense forest, with occasional glimpses of wildlife such as monkeys and birds. The trail is relatively easy, gradually winding through the forest and offering an excellent opportunity to acclimatize as you reach Simba Camp, set at an elevation of 2,620 meters. The trek typically lasts around 4-5 hours, covering about 8 kilometers.
The second day involves a longer trek, lasting about 5-6 hours. From Simba Camp, you’ll ascend to Second Cave, passing through moorland with increasingly panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the peak of Kilimanjaro. The distance is approximately 8 kilometers, and the elevation gain is 830 meters, reaching 3,450 meters at Second Cave.
On the third day, the trek takes about 5-6 hours and covers roughly 6 kilometers. The path winds through heath and moorland, and trekkers begin to notice the altitude as the scenery opens up, revealing views of Kibo Peak. Kikelewa Camp, at 3,600 meters, is situated in a scenic location with spectacular views of the mountain’s glaciers and summit.
This is a challenging day, taking about 5-6 hours to cover a distance of 8 kilometers. The trek involves a steep ascent through alpine desert, with dramatic views of Mawenzi Peak. Reaching Mawenzi Tarn Camp at 4,330 meters provides climbers with stunning views of the mountain’s eastern side and allows time for acclimatization, as the altitude is higher than previous days.
Day 5 is a relatively short but important day for acclimatization, taking about 4-5 hours to cover 6 kilometers. The trek ascends through rocky alpine desert, with views of the vast, barren landscape around Kibo. Kibo Camp, situated at 4,700 meters, marks the final stop before the summit attempt. Climbers rest early to prepare for the summit push the following night.
The summit day begins with a midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak, which takes about 7-8 hours. The first part of the climb is steep and demanding, but climbers are rewarded with the breathtaking sunrise at the summit. After reaching Uhuru Peak, the descent begins, covering a total of 13 kilometers in approximately 6-7 hours. After a brief rest at Kibo Camp, trekkers continue down to Horombo Camp at 3,720 meters, where they spend the night, exhausted but elated.
The final day is a descent from Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate, taking about 5-6 hours. The trail is mainly downhill, covering 20 kilometers. As you descend through the forest, the vegetation becomes denser, and the temperature rises. Reaching Marangu Gate signals the end of the trek, where climbers receive their summit certificates. Transport back to your hotel or the starting point marks the conclusion of your Kilimanjaro adventure.
Professional mountain guides, porters, and cooks
Transfers to and from the Kilimanjaro gate
All national park entry, camping, and rescue fees
Full board meals while on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Drinking water and hot drinks (tea/coffee)
Tents and sleeping mats for camping routes
Emergency medical equipment, including oxygen cylinders
Mountain climbing certificates for successful summits
Two nights’ accommodation in Moshi/Arusha (pre and post-climb)
Pulse oximeter monitoring for safety checks
International and domestic flights
Visa fees for Tanzania
Travel insurance
Tips for guides, porters, and cooks
Personal climbing gear (e.g., boots, jackets, sleeping bags)
Optional activities or additional services not included in the itinerary
Snacks, personal medicine, or energy supplements
Excess luggage storage fees (if required)
Alcoholic beverages or soft drinks
Laundry or other personal expenses