The 7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route offers a unique opportunity to climb Africa’s tallest mountain from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. Known for its gradual ascent, low traffic, and spectacular wilderness views, the Rongai Route is perfect for those seeking a quieter and more peaceful Kilimanjaro trekking experience.
This route is the only trail approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, and it provides a more dry and sheltered trek, especially suitable during the rainy seasons. The descent is made on the scenic Marangu route, giving climbers the chance to experience both sides of the mountain.
Remote and less crowded trail
Beautiful wilderness, caves, and alpine scenery
Ideal route during rainy seasons
Gradual slope increases summit success rate
Approaches Kilimanjaro from the north and descends on the southern Marangu route
Offers chances of spotting wildlife in early stages of trek
Low foot traffic: Less crowded than Machame or Marangu
Excellent acclimatization: 7-day itinerary improves summit success rate
Dry trail conditions: Best for climbing in rainy months (March–May, Nov)
Wild and scenic: Offers a more remote wilderness experience
Sunrise summit: Reaching Uhuru Peak from the east offers magical morning views
7 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route Is A Great Way To Explore The Beauty And Fascinating Mt Kilimanjaro Landscape, Rongai Route Is Considered To Be Less Crouded And High Summit Rates
Hiking Time: 3 – 4 Hours.
Distance: About 8 Km.
Habitat: Montana forest
Pick up from your hotel drive to Marangu park gate for formalities registration after that transfer to the Rongai trailhead in about 3hours. Meet your guide and porters before you begin your hike from the Nale Moru village. The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then climbs gently through a forest. The trail is not at all steep, but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country. The first night’s camp is at Simba camp, at about 2,600 meters. There is a toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut. Water can be found just down the trail below samba camp.
Hiking Time 2 – 3hours
Habitat: Moorland
Late Breakfast, enjoy the morning at Simba camp proceed with the hiking very slowly acclimatize your body until you reach Second cave (3450M ) for hot lunch. Afternoon relax at second cave with dinner and overnight.
Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours.
Habitat: Moorlands.
After breakfast then continues up towards Kibo, reaching Kikelwa Cave at about 3600 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain! Water is in the obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find some. Overnight at 3rd Cave camp (Kikelewa Caves).
Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours.
Habitat: Moorlands.
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.
Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
Habitat: Alpine desert.
Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo Camp.
Hiking time: 8 hours to reach Uhuru
6 hours to descend to Horombo.
Distance: 6 km’s ascent – 21 km’s descent.
Habitat: Stone scree and ice-capped summit.
You will wake up around 23h30, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. This is where the going really gets tough. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s point (5 681m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great physical and mental effort. Probably the most demanding section of the entire route. From Gillman’s Point you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Total exhilaration and satisfaction – you madeit. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you can spend, taking photographs, before the 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut for a short rest ten after you descent to Horombo hut (3 hours) where you will overnight. The descent to Horombo hut will seem surprisingly fast compared to the ascent. The total time spent walking on this day is around almost 14 hours, . Later in the evening you enjoy your last dinner on the mountain and well-earned sleep.
Hiking Time: 6 hours.
Distance: About 27 Km.
After breakfast you continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate. At Marangu gate you sign your name and details in a register. This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those climbers who reached Gillman’s Point (5685m) are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. You now drive back to Moshi where your trekking tour ends with sweet memories.
Important to Know
Rates Per Person
1 person $2,450
Per person for 2 people $2,150
Per person for 3 people $1,980
Per person for 4+ people $1900
Best Months: January–March and June–October
Good in Rainy Season: Drier than other routes due to northern location
Avoid Crowds: Excellent route for solitude seekers year-round
Q: Is the Rongai Route easier than other Kilimanjaro routes?
A: Yes, the trail is more gradual, making it ideal for trekkers who prefer a steady ascent.
Q: What is the summit success rate for Rongai 7-day trek?
A: The 7-day version has a high success rate—up to 85%—thanks to better acclimatization.
Q: Can you climb Kilimanjaro on the Rongai Route year-round?
A: Yes, but it is especially good during the rainy seasons when other routes are muddy.
Q: Is Rongai Route good for beginners?
A: Yes, it’s recommended for first-timers who want a quieter and manageable route.
Q: What’s included in the Rongai Route package?
A: Park fees, rescue fees, tents, full board meals, experienced guides, porters, transfers, and hotel stays before/after trek.
Ready to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, scenic ascent to the Roof of Africa? Book your 7 Days Rongai Route Kilimanjaro trek with our expert guides and support crew for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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