Mount Kilimanjaro

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Rongai Route

The Rongai Route offers a remote and scenic approach to Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. Known for its gentle gradient and low traffic, this route is ideal for those seeking solitude and spectacular wilderness. The landscape ranges from farmland and pine forest to alpine desert and glaciers, culminating in the dramatic Uhuru Peak. This 6-day itinerary is a swift ascent suited to trekkers with some prior altitude experience or excellent fitness. The Rongai Route is the only route that allows views of Kilimanjaro from the north, and it merges with the Marangu Route for the descent, offering diverse scenery on both ascent and return. Expect uncrowded trails, wildlife sightings in the lower forests, and a drier climate than routes from the south. While it’s one of the less frequented paths, the Rongai Route is no less stunning, delivering a classic Kilimanjaro experience with a unique perspective.
Day 1: Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 8 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Montane Forest
  • Overnight: Simba Camp (2,625 m, shared hut/tent)

Your adventure begins with a drive to the remote Nalemuru Gate for registration and briefing. The trek starts through lush pine forest and gradually ascends into the heather zone. The trail is peaceful, offering views of local farming villages and the distant Kenyan plains. Arrive at Simba Camp in the afternoon, where you’ll have dinner and rest surrounded by forest sounds and mountain air.

  • Hiking Time: 6–7 hours | Distance: 10 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Moorland
  • Overnight: Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m)

Leaving Simba Camp, the trail climbs steadily through open moorland with expansive views of the Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You’ll pass Second Cave before heading off the main trail toward Kikilewa Camp, situated in a sheltered valley with giant groundsels and alpine plants. Enjoy a warm meal and a peaceful night under the stars.

  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours | Distance: 6 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
  • Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m)

Today is a shorter but steeper climb as you ascend to Mawenzi Tarn, nestled beneath the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The high-altitude landscape becomes more rugged, with sparse vegetation and a sense of remoteness. In the afternoon, you can relax or take an acclimatization walk around the tarn.

  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 9 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
  • Overnight: Kibo Hut (4,700 m)

The trail crosses the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, a vast alpine desert expanse with a haunting beauty. It’s a steady, gradual climb to Kibo Hut, where you’ll have an early dinner and rest in preparation for the summit push. Hydration and mental preparation are key as you sleep early for the midnight start.

  • Hiking Time: 12–14 hours | Distance: 6 km ascent, 15 km descent
  • Vegetation Zone: Arctic to Moorland
  • Overnight: Horombo Hut (3,720 m)

Summit day begins around midnight with a demanding uphill climb to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), followed by a rewarding trek along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m)—Africa’s highest point. After celebrating at the summit, begin your descent to Kibo and then continue down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.

  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 20 km
  • Vegetation Zone: Moorland to Rainforest
  • Overnight: Hotel in Moshi.

Descend through heather and lush rainforest trails to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Celebrate your achievement and transfer back to your hotel in Moshi.

  • Transportation from/to your Hotel 
  • Park Entry Fee
  • Professional Guide
  • Airport Transfers
  • Full Board Accommodations
  • Government Applied VAT
  • Tipping & Gratitude
  • Arrival & Transit Visas
  • Medical & Travel Insurance
  • Drinks at the Hotel
  • Drones Usage
  • International Flight

ENQUIRY FORM

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Rongai Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Nalemuru Gate (1,990m) to Simba Camp (2,625m) Hiking Time: 4–5

6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp Hiking Time: 5–7 hours |

7 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Machame Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Machame Gate (1,800m) to Machame Camp (2,835m) Hiking Time: 3–4

9 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Northern Circuit Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Lemosho Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trek – Lemosho Route

Overview Itinerary Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp Hiking Time: 3–4 hours