Kilimanjaro Rongai Route (6 or 7 Days)
The only route that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the quiet northern side, near the Kenya border.
- Tanzania
- 7 Days
- From $2446 Per Person
Overview
The Rongai Route is one of the most peaceful ways to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It starts from the remote northern side, where the trails are quieter and the landscape feels wild and untouched.
This route has a gentle slope in the early days, making it easier on the body and great for steady acclimatization. The final ascent joins the Marangu Route near Kibo Hut, giving you a classic summit night experience.
You can climb Rongai in 6 or 7 days. The 7-day option adds an extra acclimatization day, improving comfort and summit success.
Safari Vibes Africa runs this climb at a relaxed pace, with experienced mountain crews, proper safety checks, and warm hospitality from start to summit.
Highlights
- Quiet and less crowded route on Kilimanjaro
- Starts from the scenic northern side near the Kenya border
- Gentle gradients, ideal for steady acclimatization
- Beautiful wilderness views and wide open landscapes
- High summit success rate: ~80–85% (7 days) | ~70–75% (6 days)
- Same summit night experience as Marangu Route
- Option to choose 6 or 7 days based on your comfort level
Itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Gate → Simba Camp
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 1,950m → 2,650m
Your climb starts from the quiet northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. You walk through farmland and pine forest on a gentle trail. The pace is slow and relaxed, allowing your body to begin adjusting to altitude.
Day 2: Simba Camp → Second Cave Camp
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 2,650m → 3,450m
The forest opens into wide moorland with clear views toward Kenya. The climb remains gradual, making this day comfortable and ideal for acclimatization.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp → Kikelewa Camp
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 3,450m → 3,600m
You hike through alpine terrain with fewer plants and cooler air. This is a shorter day, giving your body more time to adapt to the altitude.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp → Mawenzi Tarn Camp (7 Days)
Hiking time: 3–4 hours
Altitude: 3,600m → 4,330m
7-day option:
You climb steadily to the beautiful Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located below the dramatic Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon is for rest and acclimatization.
6-day option:
Instead of stopping at Mawenzi Tarn, you continue across the saddle toward Kibo Hut on the same day.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut (7 Days) | Kibo Hut (6 Days)
Hiking time:
7 days: 4–5 hours
6 days: already arrived previous day
Altitude: 4,330m → 4,700m
You cross the wide, open saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. The terrain is dry and high-altitude desert. On arrival at Kibo Hut, you rest, hydrate, eat early, and prepare for summit night.
Day 6: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Horombo Hut
Hiking time: 11–14 hours total
Altitude: 4,700m → 5,895m → 3,720m
Around midnight, you begin the final ascent. The climb is slow and steady as you move toward the summit. Reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m) at sunrise is an unforgettable moment. After photos and celebration, you descend to Horombo Hut for rest.
Day 7: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate (7 Days only)
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Altitude: 3,720m → 1,860m
You descend through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate. Your climb officially ends here, with summit certificates awarded and transfer back to your hotel.
Includes
- Kilimanjaro park, camping & rescue fees
- Professional mountain guides
- Porters & cooks
- All meals on the mountain
- Tents, sleeping mats & dining tent
- Treated drinking water
- Pre-climb briefing & safety checks
- Ethical porter support standards
Excludes
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Domestic flights (e.g., Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha) unless added to your package
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees and personal travel documents
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips & gratuities for driver/guide (customary but discretionary)
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
FAQ
Is the Rongai Route good for beginners?
Yes. The Rongai Route is considered beginner-friendly due to its gentle slopes and quiet trails, especially when done in 7 days.
How difficult is the Rongai Route?
It is moderately challenging. The terrain is easier than Machame, but summit night is still demanding, like all Kilimanjaro routes.
What is the success rate on Rongai Route?
Success rates are around 80–85% for 7 days and 70–75% for 6 days, depending on fitness and acclimatization.
Is Rongai Route crowded?
No. It is one of the least crowded routes on Kilimanjaro, making it ideal if you prefer solitude and peaceful trekking.
Do I need technical climbing skills?
No technical skills are required. This is a trekking climb, not a technical mountaineering expedition.
Which option is better: 6 or 7 days?
The 7-day itinerary is strongly recommended for better acclimatization, comfort, and higher summit success.
