The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side near the Kenya border, offering a unique wilderness experience. It is drier and less crowded than other routes, making it ideal for trekkers looking for a quieter climb. The trail passes through remote forests, moorlands, alpine desert, and eventually to the arctic summit zone. Over 6 days, trekkers gradually ascend through varied landscapes with spectacular views of Mawenzi and the main Kibo peak. Although slightly less scenic than the southern routes, Rongai is known for its high success rate due to its steady climb and easier terrain.
Kilimanjaro International Airport
Trekking time: ~3–4 hours
Distance: ~8 km
Terrain: Gentle hike through pine forest, chance of spotting colobus monkeys.
Expect: An easy start with gradual ascent; first night camping at Simba Camp with great views of Kenya’s plains.
Trekking time: ~6–7 hours
Distance: ~12 km
Terrain: Moorland vegetation, wider views, open trails.
Expect: Gradual climb with views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks; you’ll feel higher altitude starting; camp at Second Cave.
Trekking time: ~3–4 hours
Distance: ~8 km
Terrain: Steeper path, heather and moorland landscape.
Expect: A shorter but steeper day; great photo opportunities of Mawenzi’s jagged peak; overnight at Kikelewa Camp.
Trekking time: ~4–5 hours
Distance: ~8 km
Terrain: Alpine desert; steeper climbs with thinner air.
Expect: Spectacular scenery and isolation; camp at Mawenzi Tarn beneath the dramatic Mawenzi peak; afternoon rest and acclimatization.
Trekking time: ~5–6 hours
Distance: ~10 km
Terrain: Crossing “The Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo — a vast alpine desert.
Expect: Long but relatively flat trek; very open landscape; early dinner and sleep at Kibo Hut to prepare for the midnight summit push.
Trekking time: ~12–14 hours (summit day)
Distance: ~22 km
Terrain: Steep scree slopes to Gilman’s Point (5,685m), then along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. Descent via Kibo to Horombo.
Expect: Most challenging day — start around midnight, hike by headlamp, freezing temperatures; reach summit at sunrise for breathtaking views. Long descent to Horombo Hut where you finally rest.
