Rongai Route
Tour Overview
The Rongai Route is one of the easiest and least crowded routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, offering trekkers a unique opportunity to experience the northern side of the mountain. This route provides a gradual ascent, making it a popular choice for climbers looking for a more relaxed climb with better acclimatization opportunities.
The Rongai Route also offers stunning views of the mountain, with a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows, and an excellent chance of spotting wildlife. Sky Wanders Safaris offers customized itineraries for the Rongai Route to ensure you have the best trekking experience, with expert guides and support throughout your journey.
Trekking Destinations
Rongai Gate , Simba Camp, Second Cave Camp, Kikelewa Camp, Mawenzi Tarn Camp, Kibo Camp, Summit, Horombo Camp, Marangu Gate
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Value for Money
- Safety & Security
Book this Tour
Day by Day Program
Day 1: Arrive in Moshi – Rongai Gate – Simba Camp
Your adventure begins with a transfer from Moshi to Rongai Gate, located on the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. After completing the registration process, the trek starts in the beautiful rainforests, where you can spot various wildlife like monkeys, birds, and other tropical species.
The first day’s trek takes about 5-6 hours, with a gradual ascent to Simba Camp (2,650 meters), located on the edge of the forest. The camp offers a scenic view of the surrounding landscape, and it’s an excellent spot for acclimatization and rest.
Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp
Day two takes you from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp (3,450 meters), a trek of about 4-5 hours. The trail continues through the moorland zone, offering panoramic views of the plains below and the majestic peaks above.
As you ascend, the landscape transforms, with more open, rugged terrain and the occasional sight of wildlife such as antelopes or zebras. Once at Second Cave Camp, you’ll rest and enjoy spectacular views of the mountain’s eastern side.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp – Kikelewa Camp
On day three, you will trek from Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters), which takes approximately 4-5 hours. As you hike through the moorland, you will notice the increasing beauty of the alpine desert landscape.
The route offers some of the best vistas on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, with views of the mountain’s rugged terrain and glaciers. Kikelewa Camp provides a peaceful, less crowded atmosphere, giving you ample time to rest and acclimatize.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Today’s hike takes you from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 meters), with a trek duration of about 4-5 hours. This section of the trek offers spectacular views of Mount Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s iconic peaks.
As you ascend through the alpine desert, the environment becomes more barren, and you may start to feel the thinning air. Mawenzi Tarn Camp is set in a stunning location, nestled beneath the towering Mawenzi peak, and provides a great spot for acclimatization.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp – Kibo Camp
On day five, you will trek from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Camp (4,700 meters), which takes about 5-6 hours. The landscape becomes more desolate as you move closer to the summit, and you’ll trek through the saddle area between Mount Mawenzi and Kibo.
This section offers stunning views of the vast, barren plateau leading to the summit. Once you arrive at Kibo Camp, you’ll rest and prepare for the final summit push, which begins later that night.
Day 6: Kibo Camp – Summit – Horombo Camp
This is the most challenging day, as you will begin your summit ascent at midnight. The hike from Kibo Camp to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) takes approximately 7-8 hours, with a gradual but steady ascent to the summit.
The air is thin, and temperatures are freezing, but the reward of reaching the summit at sunrise is worth the effort. After celebrating your achievement, you’ll descend to Horombo Camp (3,700 meters), which takes about 6-7 hours. Horombo Camp offers a much-needed rest after your summit ascent.
Day 7: Horombo Camp – Marangu Gate – Moshi
On the final day, you’ll descend from Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate, which takes approximately 5-6 hours. The route takes you through lush forests, where you can enjoy the vibrant flora and fauna. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your summit certificate, acknowledging your successful climb. From the gate, you’ll be transferred back to Moshi for a celebration of your accomplishment.
Sky Wanders Safaris provides expert guidance for the Rongai Route, offering customized itineraries designed to suit your pace and preferences. Our professional guides ensure your safety and success throughout the climb, helping you make the most of this incredible journey to Mount Kilimanjaro’s summit. Let us craft your ideal trekking experience for a safe, memorable, and successful ascent to Uhuru Peak.
- All park fees for all national parks
- All meals and accommodations during the entire tour
- A high-quality safari land cruiser with pop up roof while on Safari
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Local flight (Arusha – Kogatende)
- Highly experienced safari guide
- Unlimited mineral water on safari
- All government taxes
- International Flights
- Gratuities
- Drinks at the lodges
- Any other things not mentioned above.
Related KILIMANJARO Packages
- 5 Days | 4 Nights
Tanzania Big Cat’s Safari
This expertly designed itinerary takes you to the country’s most iconic destinations, offering an authentic and thrilling wildlife experience.
- 6 Days | 5 Nights
Tanzania Budget Safari
If you’re seeking an authentic Tanzania safari experience while staying within your travel budget, Sky Wanders Safaris is the ideal choice for you.
- 7 Days | 6 Nights
The Great Migration Calving Season
From January to March, the Ndutu region in the Serengeti comes alive during the calving season,
