Rongai Route · 7 Days

The Rongai route is the only path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is drier and gentler, making it the best choice during the rainy season.

You descend via the Marangu route, so you see both sides of the mountain. The northern approach offers unique perspectives, quiet trails and wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Best for: Rainy-season climbs and quieter trails

1. 1
   

   Day 1

   Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

   1,950m → 2,600m 3–4 hours

   Drive around to the northern Rongai Gate and trek through farmland and pine forest into the rainforest edge, camping at Simba Camp.

2. 2
   

   Day 2

   Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

   2,600m → 3,450m 3–4 hours

   A steady climb onto moorland with growing views of Kibo's snowy dome and the jagged peaks of Mawenzi.

3. 3
   

   Day 3

   Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

   3,450m → 3,600m 3–4 hours

   A scenic wilderness trek across heath towards Mawenzi, arriving at the sheltered Kikelewa Caves.

4. 4
   

   Day 4

   Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

   3,600m → 4,330m 3–4 hours

   A short, steep climb to the beautiful tarn beneath Mawenzi's spires — a superb acclimatization stop. Optional afternoon hike higher.

5. 5
   

   Day 5

   Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

   4,330m → 4,720m 5–6 hours

   Cross the high desert Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to Kibo Hut. Rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt.

6. 6
   

   Day 6

   Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then Horombo Hut

   4,720m → 5,895m → 3,720m 12–14 hours

   Climb through the night to Gilman's Point and on to Uhuru Peak at sunrise, then descend to Horombo Hut on the Marangu side.

7. 7
   

   Day 7

   Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

   3,720m → 1,860m 5–6 hours

   Final descent through moorland and forest to Marangu Gate, certificates, and transfer back to Moshi.

Route map

Rongai Route map