6 Days Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climb
Rongai Gate → Simba Camp → Kikelewa Camp → Mawenzi Tarn Camp → Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate
Starting
$1,700
per Person
- 6 Days | 5 Nights
Overview
The 6-Day Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro route that approaches the mountain from the northern side near the Kenyan border. Known for its quieter trails, drier conditions, and remote wilderness feel, Rongai is an excellent choice for climbers seeking a less crowded experience. The route gradually ascends through forests, moorlands, and alpine desert landscapes before joining the Marangu Route for the final summit attempt.
Due to its steady ascent profile and relatively gentle gradients, Rongai is considered one of Kilimanjaro’s easier routes. The best climbing seasons are January to March and June to October, though the northern side often remains drier during rainy periods. Summit success rates typically range between 75% and 85%, making it a popular option for first-time climbers looking for a quieter alternative to Machame and Marangu.
Route Highlights
- Highest summit success rate on Kilimanjaro
- Maximum acclimatization time
- Remote and scenic western approach
- Full Shira Plateau crossing
- Additional acclimatization at Moir Hut
- Barranco Wall experience
- Panoramic views throughout the climb
- Ideal for first-time climbers seeking the best chance of success
Day to Day
Itinerary
DAY 1
Rongai Gate (1,950m) – Simba Camp (2,650m)
After breakfast, drive to Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border for registration. Begin your trek through forests and farmland before entering Kilimanjaro National Park.
The trail gradually ascends through pine forests and open landscapes, offering a peaceful start to the climb. Wildlife sightings such as colobus monkeys are occasionally possible.
Arrive at Simba Camp in the afternoon.
Hiking Time: 3-4 Hours
Distance: 8 km
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accomodation:
Simba Camp
DAY 2
Simba Camp (2,650m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)
Continue climbing through the moorland zone as the landscape opens dramatically. The trail offers beautiful views of Mawenzi Peak and the surrounding valleys.
The gradual ascent helps your body adjust to the altitude while providing excellent opportunities for photography.
Arrive at Kikelewa Camp in the afternoon.
Hiking Time: 5-6 Hours
Distance: 11 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accomodation:
DAY 3
Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
Today’s trek is shorter but steeper as you ascend toward Mawenzi Tarn, one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic campsites.
Nestled beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak, the camp offers spectacular mountain scenery and serves as an excellent acclimatization location.
Spend the afternoon resting and enjoying the breathtaking surroundings.
Hiking Time: 3-4 Hours
Distance: 6 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accomodation:
Mawenzi Tarn Camp
DAY 4
Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m) – Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Cross the barren Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks, entering Kilimanjaro’s alpine desert zone. The landscape becomes increasingly rugged and dramatic as you approach Kibo Hut.
Arrive in the afternoon and spend the remainder of the day resting, hydrating, and preparing for your summit attempt.
An early dinner is served before a few hours of sleep.
Hiking Time: 4-5 Hours
Distance: 9 km
Accommodation: Kibo Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accomodation:
DAY 5
Kibo Hut (4,700m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Around midnight, begin your ascent toward Uhuru Peak. Climb steadily through the darkness toward Gilman’s Point before continuing along the crater rim to Stella Point and finally Uhuru Peak.
Reach the Roof of Africa around sunrise and celebrate your achievement while enjoying unforgettable panoramic views.
After photographs and a short rest, descend to Kibo Hut before continuing to Horombo Hut for overnight accommodation.
Hiking Time: 10-14 Hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accomodation:
DAY 6
Horombo Hut (3,720m) – Marangu Gate (1,870m)
After breakfast, begin your final descent through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate.
Upon arrival, receive your summit certificate and celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro climb before transferring back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Hiking Time: 5-7 Hours
Distance: 20 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accomodation:
Hotel
- What's included
- Kilimanjaro park fees
- Rescue fees
- Camping fees
- Professional mountain guides
- Assistant guides
- Porters
- Mountain cook
- All meals on the mountain
- Drinking water
- Oxygen cylinder
- Pulse oximeter monitoring
- Emergency first aid kit
- Government taxes and VAT
- Summit certificate
- What's NOt included
request a free quote