6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking Rongai Route
The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is quieter than the southern routes and offers a more gradual ascent, making it a good option for trekkers seeking fewer crowds and a steady pace. The route passes through varied landscapes and joins the main summit path before descending via the Marangu Route.
Route
Your Journey Mapped Out
Ready to explore Kilimanjaro from a quieter side? Your adventure begins here.
- DAY 1 Arrival in Tanzania
- DAY 2 Trekking from Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
- DAY 3 Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
- DAY 4 Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
- DAY 5 Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
- DAY 6 Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
- DAY 7 Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- DAY 8 Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- DAY 9 Departure
Day1: Arrival
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. This day is for rest and preparation after your journey.
In the evening, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing about the trek. Your equipment will be checked, and final preparations will be made to ensure you are ready for the climb.
Enjoy a relaxed evening and overnight stay at your hotel.
Accommodation
Arusha Planet Lodge
located in Arusha (City)
- HB - Dinner and Breakfast
- Drinks not included
Day 2: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
- Elevation: 1,950m to 2,650m
- Distance: 8 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
The trek begins on the northern side of Kilimanjaro. The trail passes through forest and farmland before opening into moorland. The ascent is gentle, making it a comfortable start to the climb. Simba Camp offers wide views of the surrounding plains.
Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp
- Elevation: 2,650m to 3,450m
- Distance: 6 km
- Time: 3-4 hours
You continue ascending through open moorland with fewer trees and expansive views. The trail is steady and less crowded, allowing for a peaceful trekking experience. You reach Second Cave Camp for rest and overnight.
Day 4: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
- Elevation: 3,450m to 3,600m
- Distance: 6 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
The trail becomes steeper as you approach Kikelewa Camp. The environment grows more rugged, and the views of Mawenzi Peak become more prominent. This day helps with gradual acclimatization.
Day 5: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
- Elevation: 3,600m to 4,330m
- Distance: 5 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
A shorter but steeper climb leads to Mawenzi Tarn, a scenic camp located beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak. The surroundings are striking, with rocky formations and alpine vegetation.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
- Elevation: 4,330m to 4,700m
- Distance: 8 km
- Time: 5–6 hours
You cross a wide alpine desert known as the Saddle, which lies between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is dry and exposed, and the pace is steady as you approach Kibo Hut. After an early dinner, you prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 7: Summit Day Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
- Elevation: 4,700m to 5,895m then down to 3,720m
- Distance: 22 km
- Time: 10–14 hours
The climb begins around midnight. The ascent is gradual but demanding, leading to Gilman’s Point at sunrise. From there, you continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, you descend to Horombo Hut for rest.
Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
- Elevation: 3,720m to 1,870m
- Distance: 20 km
- Time: 5–7 hours
The final descent takes you through moorland and rainforest. At Marangu Gate, you receive your summit certificate and transfer back to your hotel.
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure. Optional safari or Zanzibar extensions can be arranged if you wish to continue your adventure.
Accommodation
Arusha Planet Lodge
located in Arusha (City)
- HB - Dinner and Breakfast
- Drinks not included
Included
- Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
- Park fees and rescue fees
- Camping equipment and hut accommodation where applicable
- All meals during the trek
- Drinking water
- Transfers to and from the mountain
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guides and porters
- Personal expenses
- Extra accommodation before or after the trek
