6 Days Hiking Kilimanjaro Rongai Route
Tour Overview
The Rongai Route is the only path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. Although it's gaining popularity, it still sees low traffic, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an alternative to the crowded Marangu Route, a more remote hike, or a climb during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).
The Rongai Route requires a minimum of six days, with seven days recommended. While the scenery may not be as varied as on the western routes, Rongai compensates by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu Route at Kibo Camp. The descent follows the Marangu Route. This moderately difficult route is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.
Good To Know
Airport Pick Up
- Kilimanjaro Int. Airport (KIA)
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), our friendly guide will greet you pleasantly. They’ll help you with your luggage and facilitate a smooth transfer from the crowded airport to your hotel. Enjoy a pleasant ride while our professional guide provides insights into the local area and answers any questions you may have, setting the tone for the start of your Tanzania adventure.
Itinerary Day By Day
Day 1 | Moshi/Arusha to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
This morning we will drive to the village of Nale Moru for the starting point of the Rongai route. The first stage of the trek is through farmland and pine forests. You may have a chance to see the beautiful Colobus monkeys or if you’re lucky enough, elephants or buffalos en route. Our first camp will be the Simba Camp located at the edge of the moorland zone at 2625m.
- Elevation: 1,950m (6,398ft) to 2,600m (8,530ft)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: Approximately 7km (4.3 miles)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 2 | Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
We hike from Simba camp up towards Kibo till 3 482m for lunch at First Caves, a distance of 5.8km. After lunch we continued trekking until reaching Kikelelwa Camp at about 3679 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain! Water can be found in an obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find a pool or two. Enjoy dinner and overnight at Kikelelwa camp.
- Elevation: 2,600m (8,530ft) to 3,450m (11,319ft)
- Hiking Time: 6-7 hours
- Distance: Approximately 11km (6.8 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Habitat: Moorland
Day 3 | Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp
Leaving Second Cave Camp behind, you'll continue your ascent towards Kikelewa Camp. Today's trail offers stunning vistas of the rugged terrain, with Kilimanjaro's iconic peaks looming ever closer. As you hike, you'll notice the landscape becoming more sparse, dominated by rocky outcrops and alpine desert vegetation. Kikelewa Camp, situated at an elevation of 3,600 meters, provides a picturesque setting for your overnight stay. Take in the breathtaking views and relish the sense of accomplishment as you settle in for the night.
- Elevation: 3,450m (11,319ft) to 3,600m (11,811ft)
- Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
- Distance: Approximately 6km (3.7 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5 | Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Today's trek takes you to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Kilimanjaro's second highest summit, Mawenzi. The trail gradually ascends through alpine desert terrain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach Mawenzi Tarn, you'll be greeted by a pristine alpine lake, set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations. Spend the afternoon resting and acclimatizing at camp, taking short walks to further explore the area and prepare for the final push to the summit.
- Elevation: 3,600m (11,811ft) to 4,330m (14,206ft)
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 8km (5 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6 | Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Today is the culmination of your journey as you set out for the summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak. The ascent begins in the early hours of the morning, under the glow of starlight, as you make your way up steep and challenging terrain. As the sun rises, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, you'll push onward, fueled by determination and the support of your experienced guides. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to savor the incredible sense of achievement and enjoy panoramic views stretching across the vast African plains below. After celebrating your success, begin the descent back to Horombo Hut, where you'll spend your final night on the mountain, reflecting on the unforgettable experience.
- Elevation: 4,330m (14,206ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
- Hiking Time: 10-15 hours (6-8 hours ascent, 4-7 hours descent)
- Distance: Approximately 21km (13 miles)
- Difficulty: Very Challenging
- Habitat: Arctic to Alpine Desert
Day 7 | Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, Departure
On the last day of your trek, you'll descend through the lush rainforest, retracing your steps back to Marangu Gate. Here, you'll bid farewell to your guides and porters, who have supported you throughout the journey. After completing the necessary formalities and receiving your summit certificate, you'll transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha, where you can rest and reminisce about your incredible adventure on Kilimanjaro. Take time to explore the local markets, interact with the friendly Tanzanian people, and soak in the vibrant culture before departing for your onward journey.
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,860m (6,102ft)
- Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: Approximately 20km (12.4 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Habitat: Rainforest
Day 8 | Depart Tanzania
The day is left free to wind down after the trek before your flight home. Depending on flight times you could go and explore Moshi or Arusha town and grab some gift shops before heading to the airport.
Safari, Cycling Adventures and other add-on are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania
Includes
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Overnight stays in tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, tables, chairs )
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water, tea & coffee
- Oxygen tank and oximeters
- All national park fees
- All national park fees
- Transfer from the hotel to the National Park gate and back
Excludes
- International or Local Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Tour Photos
Words from Our happy Clients
We have received feedback from our clients, and Johnson Adventure and Safaris is rated 5/5 by them. Customers grant us this honor because we are constantly committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure that their safari is completely satisfactory.
You May Interested With
You are welcome to tailor our trip options to your own interests. While these carefully chosen ideas
will serve as a starting point, keep in mind that your path will be entirely unique to you.
- Location4
- Price5
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price5
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price4.2
- Location4
- Price4.2









