The Rongai Route is one of Kilimanjaro’s most unique and less-crowded trails, approaching the mountain from the northern side near the Kenyan border. Over six days, you’ll experience stunning wilderness, wide open views, and a peaceful trail that increases your chances for a successful summit. Unlike the more trafficked routes, Rongai offers a quieter, more remote trekking experience.
With Origin Ventures and Safaris, your journey begins in Moshi or Arusha with a scenic transfer to the Rongai Gate. From there, you’ll ascend through pine forest, alpine moorlands, and lunar-like landscapes before reaching the iconic Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point at 5,895 meters. Our professional mountain team ensures a safe, well-supported, and unforgettable trek.
The Rongai Route is ideal for climbers who prefer a quieter path with beautiful scenery and a slower acclimatization pace. Unlike southern approaches, this route offers drier conditions and panoramic views from the very beginning. It is the only route starting from the northern side of Kilimanjaro and allows trekkers to experience both the remote wilderness of the north and the scenic southern descent via the Marangu Route.
Over six days, you'll pass through several diverse ecological zones—from lush rainforest and moorlands to high-altitude desert terrain. Highlights include camping near the rugged Mawenzi peak, watching the stars at high-altitude camps, and, of course, the ultimate sunrise summit from Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak.
Our experienced guides, porters, and chefs make the experience safe, enriching, and full of positive energy. You'll enjoy nutritious hot meals, well-maintained tents, and expert altitude management throughout the journey. Whether you're a first-time climber or an experienced trekker, the Rongai Route provides a perfect mix of comfort, challenge, and solitude.
Start your adventure with Origin Ventures and Safaris, and take the road less traveled—toward the roof of Africa.
Start your adventure with Origin Ventures and Safaris! This 6-day Rongai Route trek begins in Moshi or Arusha and offers a quieter, scenic approach to Kilimanjaro. With gradual elevation gain and varied landscapes, this route increases your chances of a successful and enjoyable summit.
Transfer from Moshi/Arusha to the Rongai Gate (Nalemoru) near the Kenyan border. After registration, begin your trek through the forest zone with chances to see colobus monkeys. Arrive at Simba Camp (2,650m) for overnight stay.
Trek through moorlands with expansive views of Kenya’s plains and Kibo peak. Arrive at Second Cave Camp (3,450m) for acclimatization and rest.
Continue ascending with stunning views of the eastern ice fields and Mawenzi Peak. Settle at Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) in a sheltered valley.
Steep climb up grassy slopes into the alpine desert zone. Camp beneath the towering Mawenzi Peak at Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m). This is a vital acclimatization night.
Trek across the lunar desert between Mawenzi and Kibo. Rest at Kibo Hut (4,700m) in preparation for the summit attempt. Early dinner and early sleep.
Begin your summit attempt around midnight. Trek through the dark, cold alpine environment to Gilman’s Point and finally Uhuru Peak (5,895m). After photos and celebration, descend back to Kibo, then continue to Horombo Hut (3,720m). Transfer to Moshi/Arusha for rest and certificate ceremony.
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