The 6 Days Rongai Route is a quiet, less crowded Kilimanjaro climb from the northern side with scenic views and a gentle ascent. Ideal for beginners and those seeking a peaceful trekking experience
The 6-day Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, offering a unique and quieter trekking experience. It’s ideal during the rainy season, as the northern side receives less rainfall. The trail passes through remote wilderness, scenic alpine zones, and merges with the Marangu Route for the descent. Though shorter in days, the route follows a good acclimatization profile with “climb high, sleep low” features.
The 6 Days Rongai Route is a peaceful and scenic Kilimanjaro climb that approaches the mountain from the northern side near the Kenyan border. Known for its dry conditions and gradual ascent, this route is ideal for beginners and those seeking a quieter alternative to the busier trails. Trekkers enjoy views of Mawenzi Peak, diverse landscapes, and a steady climb that supports acclimatization, making it a great choice for reaching Uhuru Peak with a high success rate.
✅ Less Crowded – Remote northern approach with fewer trekkers
✅ Dry Conditions – Ideal during rainy seasons due to minimal rainfall
✅ Gentle Ascent – Gradual climb suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers
✅ Scenic Views – Offers views of Mawenzi Peak and Kenya’s plains
✅ Tent Accommodations – Full camping experience on the mountain
✅ High Success Rate – Good acclimatization despite shorter itinerary
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
After a drive to Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border, the climb begins through a forested trail rich in wildlife and birdlife. The trail ascends gently to Simba Camp, located on the edge of the moorland zone with views over the Kenyan plains.
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Vegetation Zone: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving the forest, you’ll enter the heather and moorland zone, with wide open views and giant lobelias. You’ll steadily climb to Second Cave Camp, where you’ll enjoy panoramic sights of the eastern ice fields and Mawenzi Peak.
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Vegetation Zone: Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The trail continues across the moorlands toward the dramatic cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. After a gentle ascent, you’ll arrive at Kikelewa Camp, a sheltered site in a scenic valley surrounded by giant groundsels.
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A short but steep hike leads to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled below the towering spires of Mawenzi. This is one of the most stunning campsites on Kilimanjaro. The high elevation helps with acclimatization, and you can take an optional short hike in the afternoon for better altitude adjustment.
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Vegetation Zone: Alpine Desert
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You’ll cross the Saddle, a vast desert-like expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The trail is exposed but gradual, leading to Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit. You’ll rest here, have an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight climb.
Distance: 21 km
Hiking Time: 12–14 hours
Vegetation Zones: Arctic to Moorland
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your summit attempt begins just after midnight. You’ll ascend to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating, you’ll descend back to Kibo Hut for rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for your final night on the mountain.
Note: This descent day is included in most 6-day packages but may be listed separately.
Distance: 20 km
Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, descend through the moorlands and rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Our vehicle will be waiting to return you to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.
Professional mountain guides, cook, and porters
All park fees and rescue fees
Transport to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport
Transfers to the Lemosho Gate and from Mweka Gate
Accommodation in mountain tents with sleeping mattresses
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Clean, purified drinking water throughout the trek
Fair wages for porters and guides
Government taxes and levies
Emergency oxygen and first aid kit
Pre and post-trek hotel accommodation (1 night each) in Moshi
Kilimanjaro climbing certificate after a successful summit
International and domestic flights
Tanzanian Visa fee
Travel insurance and evacuation cover
Sleeping bags and personal trekking gear
Tips for guides, porters, and cook (recommended)
Additional hotel stays before or after the trek (if applicable)
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
A scenic Kilimanjaro route with a shorter acclimatization period. Ideal for fit trekkers seeking a challenge and fewer crowds.
The most recommended option for high summit success. Allows better acclimatization with a gradual ascent through diverse landscapes.
Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it’s the only route with hut accommodations. A classic and comfortable climb with moderate difficulty.