7 days · Tanzania · Mountain trek
Kilimanjaro: Rongai Route
The only route that approaches from the north, near the Kenyan border. Rongai is quieter, drier and gently graded, making it a great choice in the rainy season or for those who prefer fewer people on the trail.
Enquire about this safariDuration
7 days on the mountain
Route
Rongai Gate · Mawenzi Tarn · Kibo · Uhuru Peak
Best time
Year-round, best Jun – Oct
Ideal for
Private climb or join a group
The quiet north side
Because it lies in the mountain’s rain shadow, the Rongai route receives less rainfall than the southern routes, and it sees far fewer climbers. The trail climbs steadily through pine forest and moorland, with an acclimatisation stop beneath the jagged peak of Mawenzi at Mawenzi Tarn. You descend on the opposite side via the Marangu route, so you see two very different faces of Kilimanjaro.
Itinerary
Day by day
A sample route. Your planner will adjust camps and order to match the herds' position in your travel month.
Day 1 · Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Drive around to the northern trailhead and walk through forest to Simba Camp at about 2,600 m.
Day 2 · To Second Cave
Steady climbing across moorland with views towards Kibo, to about 3,450 m.
Day 3 · To Kikelewa Camp
A shorter day to help acclimatisation, at around 3,600 m.
Day 4 · Mawenzi Tarn
Climb to the dramatic tarn beneath Mawenzi’s spires at about 4,300 m.
Days 5–6 · Kibo Hut & summit
Cross the saddle to Kibo Hut, then climb through the night to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) and descend to Horombo.
Day 7 · Down to Marangu Gate
Descend through the rainforest to the gate on the southern side.
Included
— Park, camping and rescue fees
— Professional mountain guides, cook and porters
— Quality tents, sleeping mats and mess tent
— All meals and treated water on the mountain
— Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
— Hotel nights before and after the climb
— Airport transfers
Not included
— International flights and visas
— Travel insurance with high-altitude cover (required)
— Sleeping bag and personal gear (rental available)
— Tips for guides and crew
— Drinks and personal items
Climb Kilimanjaro with us
Climb privately with your own crew, or join one of our small group departures to share the adventure and the cost. Tell us your dates and we’ll suggest the best option.
Enquire now