The Rongai Route offers a gentle, quiet, and scenic ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro through 6 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route, from the northern side. It is the only route that approaches from the Kenyan border, known for its unspoiled wilderness, steady slopes, and excellent summit success rates. This 6-day program is ideal for climbers seeking a less crowded, more remote experience while still challenging themselves on the Roof of Africa.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Rongai Gate (1,950 m) → Simba Camp (2,600 m)

After a morning transfer to Kilimanjaro’s northern side, check-in at the gate, meet your mountain crew, and begin your trek through quiet pine forests and open wilderness. The trail is gentle and peaceful, offering views into Kenya.
Overnight: Simba Camp
Hiking time: 3–4 hours | Distance: ~7 km | Habitat: Montane forest

Day 2: Simba Camp (2,600 m) → Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)

A steady ascent across moorland landscapes with sweeping views of the eastern ice fields. You’ll pass the beautiful Second Cave viewpoint, a favorite stop for photos and acclimatization.
Overnight: Second Cave Camp
Hiking time: 6–7 hours | Distance: ~9 km | Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Second Cave Camp → Kikelwa Camp (3,600 m)

Continue trekking through rugged moorland valleys. This section offers striking views and a gradual climb, perfect for altitude adjustment. Kikelwa Camp sits near giant lobelias and spacious high-altitude terrain.
Overnight: Kikelwa Camp
Hiking time: 6–7 hours | Distance: ~6 km | Habitat: Moorland

Day 4: Kikelwa Camp → Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)

A shorter but steeper climb to one of the most dramatic camps on the mountain—Mawenzi Tarn. The camp lies beneath Mawenzi Peak’s jagged spires, offering unforgettable scenery and excellent acclimatization.
Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Hiking time: 4–5 hours | Distance: ~5 km | Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

Cross the lunar-like Saddle, a high-altitude desert connecting Mawenzi and Kibo. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the early afternoon for an early dinner and rest before the summit push.
Overnight: Kibo Hut
Hiking time: 5–6 hours | Distance: ~8 km | Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Your summit attempt begins around midnight. Ascend steadily to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) on the crater rim, then continue along the ridge to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating your achievement, descend to Kibo Hut for lunch, then continue down to Horombo Hut.
Overnight: Horombo Hut
Hiking time: 12–16 hours | Distance: ~21 km | Habitat: Arctic summit → Moorland

Day 7 Optional Add-on (Descent Day): Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate (1,860 m)**

If needed for guest clarity or a full itinerary, add the final descent:
Walk through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Receive your summit certificates and transfer back to Arusha or Moshi.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours | Distance: ~18 km