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Trekkers on the northern slopes of the Rongai Route
6 Days / 5 Nights · Camping Route

Rongai Route, 6 days.

Approaching Kilimanjaro from the quieter northern side near the Kenyan border — a less-crowded route with a different perspective of the mountain.

Duration
6 Days / 5 Nights
Best For
Quieter, drier route
Style
Camping, full-service
Difficulty
Moderate
Overview

A quieter path from the north

Approaching Kilimanjaro from the northern side near the Kenyan border, Rongai is less crowded and offers a different perspective of the mountain.

  • Less crowded
  • Northern mountain views
  • Drier conditions in some seasons
Mount Kilimanjaro summit view from the Rongai Route
Day By Day

Your 6 days itinerary

Day 1Rongai Gate/Nalemoru to Simba Camp
Trek begins at Rongai Gate through forest and moorland to Simba Camp.
Day 2Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Continue across open moorland with views towards Kenya, reaching Kikelewa Camp.
Day 3Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
A short, steep climb to Mawenzi Tarn Camp beneath Mawenzi Peak.
Day 4Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Cross the alpine desert of the Saddle to reach Kibo Hut, the final camp before the summit.
Day 5Summit Uhuru Peak; descend via Horombo Camp
A pre-midnight start for the summit push to Uhuru Peak, descending to Horombo Camp.
Day 6Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate; return to Moshi/Arusha
A final descent through forest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate before transferring back to Moshi or Arusha.
What's Included

Included in this climb

  • Park and conservation fees as quoted
  • Professional mountain guide(s) and crew
  • Camping arrangements for the Rongai route
  • Meals on the mountain
  • Transfers specified in the itinerary
  • Safety equipment and emergency procedures as appropriate
Not Included

Not included

  • International flights
  • Visa costs
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips/gratuities
  • Alcoholic and personal beverages unless specified
Prepare For The Climb

Packing & FAQs

General guidance below — our team sends a full, route-specific packing list and briefing once your climb is booked.

Essential packing list

  • Layered clothing for rainforest to arctic conditions
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C)
  • Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
  • Headlamp with spare batteries, for the summit night
  • Trekking poles and gaiters
  • Sun protection and personal first-aid kit
Why choose the Rongai route?
Rongai approaches from the quieter northern side of the mountain, seeing far fewer trekkers than the southern routes, with drier conditions in some seasons.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
No technical climbing skills are required, but a reasonable level of fitness and some hiking experience will make the trek more enjoyable.
Can this route be done as a private climb?
Yes — this itinerary can be arranged privately for your dates and group size, or joined as part of a scheduled group departure.
Kilimanjaro camp on the Rongai Route
Customize This Trip

Ready to climb Rongai?

This itinerary can be adjusted for private groups, family climbs and special requests — and combined with a safari or Zanzibar extension afterwards. Tell us your dates and group size for a personalized quote.

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