The 6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route offers a unique northern approach to Africa’s tallest mountain. Unlike the more crowded southern routes, Rongai delivers a quieter, unspoiled trekking experience with excellent chances of seeing wildlife and panoramic views across Kenya and Tanzania.
This 6-day Rongai trekking itinerary is perfect for climbers seeking a gradual ascent, drier conditions, and a more remote feel. The route merges with the Marangu Route for the final descent, offering a round-trip experience of Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes.
Begins from the northern side near the Kenyan border
Less traffic – ideal for climbers seeking solitude
Excellent scenery and diverse ecosystems
More gradual acclimatization, enhancing summit success rate
Spectacular sunrise summit at Uhuru Peak (5,895m)
Descend via Marangu Route, allowing a circular journey
Fully supported trek with guides, porters, meals, and park fees
Low traffic route: Peaceful and scenic trekking experience
Wildlife sightings: Particularly in the early stages through Kilimanjaro’s northern forests
Great for the rainy season: The north side stays relatively dry year-round
Balanced ascent: The steady gradient reduces the risk of altitude sickness
Best for photographers: Expansive views toward Kenya’s plains
6 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 crowded and has high summit rates
Hiking time: 5 hours
Distance: Approximately 8 kilometers
Habitat: Montane Forest
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up from Moshi (1400m) and driven to the Marangu Gate (1980m). At the gate, the porters will organize and pack the belongings for the hike while you and your guide register with the Tanzania National Park (TANAPA). You will then be transferred by vehicle to the Rongai trailhead, which is 2.5 hours away from the Managu Gate. The trail begins in the tall cornfields then leads into the pine forest. This trail has a gradual ascent and allows hikers to enjoy their surroundings. About halfway up the trail you will have a lunch break and you will reach the 1st Caves Camp (2600m) in the late afternoon or early evening. The porters and chef, who move very fast up the mountain, will reach camp before you and set up your tents, boil drinking water, and prepare snacks for your arrival. After washing up, a hot dinner will be served. For overnight, mountain temperatures may drop to freezing so be prepared!
Hiking time: 6-7 hours
Habitat: Moorlands
Following a hot breakfast, hikers will continue their ascent to Kikelewa Cave (3600m). The trail passes Second Cave (3450m) and this is a good spot to take a lunch break. Similar to the first night, your tents will be set up prior to arriving at camp and the porters will prepare drinking and washing water for you. You will enjoy evening snacks then dinner prepared by our chef. Be prepared for a cold night as temperatures drop below freezing at this exposed camp.
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Moorlands
On this day, hikers will enjoy a short, yet steep trail to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m). In the moorland, you will spot exotic plants, including giant lobelia and groundsel. At camp, hikers will enjoy spectacular views and allow their bodies to acclimate. Hot dinner and washing water will be prepared for hikers as they enjoy the magnificent sunset.
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
After breakfast, hikers will continue ascending east for a half-day hike to Kibo Hut. Kibo is located in the “Saddle,” which refers to the area located between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo in an alpine desert. There is no water at this camp, but hikers can buy mineral water and soft drinks at the camp office. An early dinner will be served so hikers can rest before attempting the summit the same night. Your guide will brief you in detail on how to prepare for summit night. Get to sleep by 19:00!
Hiking time: 8 hours to Uhuru and 6 hours to Horombo
Habitat: Stone scree / ice-cap summit
Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers ascent and 21 kilometers descent
Your guide will wake you around 23:30 for tea and biscuits. You will then begin your summit attempt. The trail is rocky up to Hans Meyer Cave (5150m). You continue your ascent to Gillman’s point (5681m). Reaching this section is an impressive achievement as the trail is steep, rocky, and at high altitude. Gillman’s is located on the crater rim. From this point, you will usually experience a snow covered trail until you reach the summit, Uhuru Peak (5895m). Reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro is a lifetime accomplishment! You will be able to spend a short time on the summit taking photographs and drinking tea before the descent to Barafu begins. The hike down to Kibo Hut takes about 3 hours.
At Kibo Hut, you will rest and enjoy a hot lunch in the sun. After eating, you will continue descending down to Horombo Hut (3720m). You will have a dinner, wash, and rest soundly at the hut after a strenuous day.
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: Approximately 27 kilometers
Following a well-deserved breakfast, your staff will have a big celebration full of dancing and singing. It is here on the mountain that you will present your tips to the guide, assistant guides, chef(s), and porters. After celebrating, you will descend for 6 hours back to Marangu Gate (1980m). The National Park requires all hikers to sign their names to receive certificates of completion. Hikers who reached Gillman’s Point (5681m) receive green certificates and hikers who reached Uhuru Peak (5895m) receive gold certificates. After receiving certificates, you will drive back to Moshi for long overdue showers and more celebrations.
Important to Know
Rates Per Person
1 person $2,590
Per person for 2 people $1,980
Per person for 3 people $1,830
Per person for 4+ people $1,800
Ideal Months: January to mid-March, and June to October
Rain Shadow Area: Driest route on the mountain, excellent even in shoulder seasons
Clear Views: December is also favorable for clear skies
Is the Rongai Route harder or easier than Machame or Lemosho?
Rongai is often considered easier due to its gentle slopes, though the summit day is still challenging. It’s perfect for those wanting a less crowded trail.
Where does the climb start and end?
The ascent begins at Rongai Gate (north side) and ends at Marangu Gate (east side), offering a scenic traverse.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No. The Rongai Route is a trekking route. No mountaineering experience is required.
Are there huts or tents?
Unlike Marangu, the Rongai Route involves camping in tents, with all gear provided by the tour company.
How fit should I be?
Moderate to high fitness level is recommended. Regular hillwalking, cardio training, and altitude practice (if possible) are helpful.
Ready to summit the highest peak in Africa on a peaceful, scenic trail? The 6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route is your path to the top – with expert local guides, complete support, and breathtaking views every step of the way.
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with many adventures being offered all over the country. For optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is your best bet! Read more on when to visit Tanzania
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A camera and binoculars are a must. You’ll regret it if you don’t take them! As for clothing, definitely pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Remember, Tanzania is an arid country so the days can get quite hot. Read more on what to pack for a safari in Tanzania in our travel magazine
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