6 Day Rongai Route KIlimanjaro Climbing

Overview

The 6 Day Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Climbing offers a quieter, more remote approach to Africa’s highest peak, making it ideal for trekkers seeking solitude and unspoiled wilderness. Approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side near the Kenyan border, this route provides breathtaking scenery, gentle gradients, and a unique perspective rarely experienced by other climbers.

The journey takes you through open forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude deserts, with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in the early stages. The gradual ascent profile supports better acclimatization, increasing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) successfully. Each day is carefully planned to balance adventure, safety, and comfort, guided by experienced mountain professionals. Summiting Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route rewards you with unforgettable sunrise views over the African plains before descending via the scenic Marangu Route, offering a complete and diverse Kilimanjaro experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Moshi

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional driver and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After settling in, enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and a delicious meal. Later in the evening, you will meet your mountain guide for a comprehensive pre-climb briefing, equipment check, and final preparations for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

After an early breakfast, you will drive to the Rongai Gate, located on the remote northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro near the Kenyan border. After registration, the trek begins through open forest and farmland, offering chances to spot wildlife such as colobus monkeys and antelope. The trail is gentle and uncrowded, making this a relaxed and enjoyable first day on the mountain. Upon arrival at Simba Camp, your team will set up camp while dinner is prepared.

Altitude: 1,950 m – 2,625 m
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours

Day 3: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Today’s trek continues through moorland landscapes with expansive views of the Kenyan plains. The ascent remains gradual, allowing your body to adjust comfortably to the altitude. Vegetation becomes sparse as you move higher, creating a dramatic mountain atmosphere. You will reach Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a sheltered valley at the base of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is spent resting and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Altitude: 2,625 m – 3,670 m
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

A shorter but steeper climb leads you toward Mawenzi Tarn Camp, beautifully located beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. The route offers stunning alpine scenery and cooler temperatures, marking your transition into high-altitude terrain. This shorter hiking day is ideal for acclimatization, giving you time to relax and explore the dramatic landscape surrounding the camp.

Altitude: 3,670 m – 4,330 m
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3 – 4 hours

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut to Summit Preparation

Today you cross the stark, lunar-like desert known as the Saddle, lying between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is wide and open, with breathtaking views of both volcanic cones. Upon arrival at Kibo Hut, you will have an early dinner and rest, conserving energy for the midnight summit attempt. Your guide will conduct a detailed briefing covering pacing, safety, and summit strategy.

Altitude: 4,330 m – 4,700 m
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

Day 6: Summit Day to Uhuru Peak to Marangu Gate

You will wake around midnight and begin the final ascent toward Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). This challenging climb takes you past Gillman’s Point on the crater rim before continuing to the highest point in Africa. Reaching the summit at sunrise is an unforgettable, emotional achievement. After celebrating and taking photos, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Marangu Gate. At the gate, you will receive your summit certificate before being transferred back to Moshi.

Altitude: 4,700 m – 5,895 m – 1,860 m
Distance: 22 km
Hiking Time: 12 – 15 hours

Optional Extensions

After the climb, you may choose to extend your adventure with:

• A Tanzania wildlife safari

• A relaxing Zanzibar beach holiday

• Cultural or day trips around Moshi

Inclusions and Exclusion

Included

• Experienced and certified Kilimanjaro guides

• Professional porters to carry camping equipment and supplies

• Cook and kitchen staff to prepare freshly cooked meals during the trek

• Park fees, rescue fees, and camping fees

• All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Tea, coffee, and snacks during the trek

• Sleeping tents and dining tents

• Walking poles (if requested)

• First aid kit and oxygen cylinder for emergencies

• Detailed pre-trek briefing and itinerary guidance

• Certificates of achievement after successful summit

Excluded

• International and domestic flights to/from Kilimanjaro

• Airport departure taxes

• Personal hiking gear and clothing (trekking boots, jackets, gloves, etc.)

• Travel and medical insurance (strongly recommended)

• Tips for guides, porters, and kitchen staff

• Beverages other than provided tea and coffee

• Optional excursions before or after the climb

• Personal items, souvenirs, and snacks beyond what is provided