Rongai is the only route on Kilimanjaro that begins on the northern slope of the mountain. Although this part of the mountain is rarely visited by hikers, it offers a unique and equally interesting experience compared to the popular southern and western slopes. The Rongai route is ideal for those who prefer a more secluded hiking experience.

The journey to the trailhead, Nalemuru Gate, usually takes about 3-4 hours from your hotel in Moshi.

Rongai is also the only route that passes by Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones and the third-highest peak in Africa. The descent is via Marangu, allowing you to see both sides of the mountain.

While 6- and 7-day programs are available for the Rongai Route, the longer option is recommended for better acclimatization.

Arrive in Tanzania

Pickup from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Moshi. Afterward, your guide will brief you about the trek and conduct an equipment check to ensure you have all the necessary gear.

Day 1 – Nalemuru Gate (1990m) to Simba Camp (2570m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Tropical Rainforest
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Your guide and mountain crew will meet you at the hotel in the morning for a brief, after which you will be driven to Nalemuru Gate (2020m). After completing registration, you’ll begin your trek through the coniferous forest up Kilimanjaro’s northern slope, reaching Simba Camp (2570m). Your trek will be moderate, and by the time you arrive at camp, the mountain crew will have prepared everything for your overnight stay, including dinner.

Day 2 – Simba Camp (2570m) to Kikelelwa Camp (3700m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Moorland zone
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

This day offers breathtaking views of the eastern ice fields on the crater rim of Kibo, the highest of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanoes. You’ll trek for about 3 hours across the moorland zone towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi (5140m) before arriving at Kikelelwa Camp for lunch and overnight.

Day 3 – Kikelelwa Camp (3630m) to Mawenzi Tan Hut (4330m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 4 hours
Habitat: Semi-desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today, expect a short but steep climb up grassy slopes, with stunning views and a sense of true wilderness. The camp is located in a cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. You’ll have the afternoon free for rest or light exploration to aid your acclimatization. Overnight at Mawenzi Tan Hut (4330m).

Day 4 – Mawenzi Tan Hut (4330m) to Kibo Hut (4700m)

Distance covered: 8 km
Approximate time taken: 5 hours
Habitat: Alpine desert
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Today’s trek crosses the barren saddle between Kibo and Mawenzi, reaching Kibo Hut (4700m). Spend the afternoon resting and having lunch in preparation for the final summit attempt later in the evening.

Day 5 – Summit Day

Distance covered: 22 km
Approximate time taken: 13 hours
Meal: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Your summit attempt begins at midnight. The climb is the steepest and most demanding, but your guide will maintain a slow and steady pace. It will take about 5 hours to reach the crater rim at Gilman’s Point (5685m), where you can rest and enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. From here, you’ll continue for another hour to Uhuru Peak (5895m), passing close to the glaciers and ice cliffs that still dominate the summit area. After taking photos at the highest point in Africa, you’ll descend to Kibo Hut for a short rest and hot lunch before continuing down to Horombo Hut for the night.

Day 6 – Horombo Hut (3720m) to Marangu Gate (1860m)

Distance covered: 20 km
Approximate time taken: 7 hours
Meal: Breakfast and lunch included

On the final day, you’ll descend through the heath and moorland zone to Mandara Hut (2700m) for a hot lunch. From there, continue down through the tropical rainforest to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you’ll receive your completion certificate. After signing out and completing other park formalities, a vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Moshi for a well-deserved warm shower. It’s time to celebrate your achievement!

Then – Depart Tanzania / Other Destinations in Tanzania

Later in the evening or the following day, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight.