6 Days Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Trek

6 Days Rongai Route – A Scenic, Quiet Climb from the North

Start Your Kilimanjaro Adventure from Moshi or Arusha

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.

Rongai Route forest section
Views from Rongai camp
Hikers on the way to Mawenzi Tarn

Why Choose the Rongai Route for Your Kilimanjaro 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.

6 Days Rongai Route Trekking – Sample Itinerary

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.

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Nalemoru Gate – Simba Camp

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.

Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp

Trek through moorlands with expansive views of Kenya’s plains and Kibo peak. Arrive at Second Cave Camp (3,450m) for acclimatization and rest.

Day 3: Second Cave Camp – Kikelewa Camp

Continue ascending with stunning views of the eastern ice fields and Mawenzi Peak. Settle at Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) in a sheltered valley.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp

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.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut

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.

Day 6: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut – Moshi/Arusha

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.

Included in this Trekking Package

  • Hotel transfers in Moshi or Arusha (start & end)
  • Mountain guides, porters & cook (fully licensed)
  • Park fees, rescue fees & camping equipment
  • 3 meals daily on the mountain + filtered water
  • Tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, and mess tent
  • Pulse oximeter and daily health checks
  • Certificate of achievement from Kilimanjaro National Park

Excluded from the Package

  • International flights & Tanzanian visa fees
  • Tips for guides, porters, and cook (customary)
  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, boots, etc.)
  • Travel insurance & evacuation coverage
  • Snacks, alcoholic drinks, and soft drinks

Book your Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The Rongai Route has a gradual ascent profile and fewer crowds, making it ideal for first-time climbers who want a quieter, scenic trek with a good chance of acclimatizing successfully.

The best times are during the dry seasons: from late June to October and January to early March. The Rongai Route remains relatively dry year-round compared to other routes, making it a good choice even during the short rainy season.

Summit day is the most challenging part of the trek. It involves a midnight start, trekking in darkness and cold, reaching the summit by sunrise, and descending for hours afterward. However, with mental focus, good pacing, and support from guides, most climbers make it to the top.

Yes. We can assist you in renting high-quality gear in Moshi, including sleeping bags, walking poles, jackets, and more. Let us know your needs in advance so we can reserve the right sizes for you.

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