9 Day Rongai Route
Rongai Route
Overview
The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m / 19,341ft) from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. Renowned for its peaceful trails, gradual slopes, and dry climate, this route offers a unique and less crowded experience compared to the busier southern approaches. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a quiet, steady climb with incredible scenery and a high summit success rate.
This 9-day itinerary is designed to optimize acclimatization, allowing for a more comfortable ascent while maximizing your chances of reaching Uhuru Peak. The route begins at the Rongai Gate, winding through open farmland, pine forests, and heathland, with frequent sightings of wildlife such as colobus monkeys, antelope, and a variety of birds — especially during the first days.
As you ascend, the landscape transitions into alpine desert and rocky ridges, offering clear views of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second volcanic peak. The trail eventually merges with the Marangu Route at Kibo Hut, where the final summit push begins during the night, reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise for a once-in-a-lifetime panoramic view.
The descent follows the Marangu Route on the southern side of the mountain, providing a complete traverse of Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems — a unique advantage of Rongai. With full camping support, professional guides, and less exposure to rain and muddy trails, this route is particularly favored during the wet season and is ideal for first-time trekkers, families, and those who prefer a more private and gradual climb.
Itinerary
Upon landing at the airport, you'll be whisked away to your hotel, marking the start of your Tanzanian adventure. Here, you will meet your guide who will provide a comprehensive briefing on the incredible journey ahead. Afterward, take the time to rest or explore the vibrant city of Arusha, known as the gateway to Tanzania's world-renowned national parks. The hotel staff will be more than happy to recommend exciting activities and hidden gems around the area, ensuring you have a memorable first day in this beautiful country.
Meals - Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
Start your Kilimanjaro adventure through the Rongai Route, a path less traveled that offers a unique and serene experience. From Rongai Gate to Simba Camp, you're embarking on a journey that not only promises the thrill of the climb but also ensures safety and trust under the guidance of our expert team. Witness the stunning diversity of Tanzania's landscapes as you traverse through lush rainforests and open fields, laying the foundation for an unforgettable adventure. This initial stage is all about acclimatisation to the altitude, preparing you for the days ahead. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast beauty and tranquility of the mountain, setting the stage for a transformative journey that will challenge and surpass your expectations.
Hike - 7 km | 3-4 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Simba Camp 2640m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
As you move from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp, the adventure intensifies. This stage of your Kilimanjaro trekking experience reveals the rugged beauty of the mountain in new lights. The terrain becomes a mix of gentle slopes and rolling hills, offering breathtaking views that promise to be etched in your memory. This leg is crucial for further acclimatisation, as you gradually ascend and adapt to the changing altitude. Our expert guides ensure your journey is not only safe but enriched with insights into the local flora and fauna. This day offers a perfect balance of challenge and awe-inspiring sights, making every step an achievement towards reaching the summit. Prepare to be inspired by the vastness of the landscape and the inner strength you discover with each stride.
Hike - 6 km | 3-4 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Second Cave Camp 3480m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The trek from Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp is where the adventure truly unfolds, showcasing Kilimanjaro's diverse ecosystems. This stage is marked by a noticeable change in scenery, from heathland to the striking alpine desert, offering a glimpse into the mountain's unique ecological zones. As you ascend, the air thins, and the landscape sprawls wide and wild before you, a testament to the untouched beauty of Kilimanjaro. Safety and acclimatisation remain our priority, with guides monitoring your well-being, ensuring a secure ascent. Kikelewa Camp awaits, promising rest under the stars, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Kilimanjaro's rugged terrain.
Hike - 6 km | 3-4 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Kikelewa Camp 3680m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trekking from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Hut unveils the stark beauty of Kilimanjaro. This leg is a challenging ascent through rocky landscapes to the serene Mawenzi Tarn. It's crucial for acclimatization and prepares you for the summit push. Guides ensure your safety and share insights into the unique alpine desert ecosystem. Rest at Mawenzi Tarn Hut offers stunning views and a moment of tranquility before the final stages of your climb. Here, you're surrounded by the mountain's majesty, ready for the next phase of your adventure.
Hike - 4 km | 3-4 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Mawenzi Tarn Hut 4300m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Moving from Mawenzi Tarn Hut to School Hut marks the final preparation before your summit attempt. This stage is about mental and physical readiness, with a focus on acclimatization and rest. The trek is relatively short but crucial, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. Your safety is our priority, guided by experts familiar with Kilimanjaro's challenges. The School Hut serves as the base camp for the summit push, offering a space for quiet contemplation and rest under the stars. Here, at the edge of the summit's call, you're surrounded by the silent anticipation of the challenge ahead. This stage is your gateway to the summit, where dreams and mountain peaks meet.
Hike - 9 km | 5-7 hours
Accommodation(overnight) - Shool Hut 4700m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The climax of your Kilimanjaro expedition begins at School Hut, ascending to Uhuru Peak, then descending to Horombo Hut. This is the moment you've prepared for, a transformative journey to the roof of Africa. Starting before dawn, you trek under the stars, pushing toward the summit. The path is steep and challenging, but each step brings you closer to the pinnacle of Uhuru Peak. Reaching the summit, you're rewarded with breathtaking views and a profound sense of achievement. The descent to Horombo Hut allows time to reflect on your accomplishment. Guided by experts, your safety and success are ensured. This day is not just about reaching the top but about the personal growth and unforgettable memories made along the way.
Hike - 20 km | 10-13 hours
Summit - Uhuru Peak
Accommodation(overnight) - Horombo Hut 3700m AMSL
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The final leg from Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate marks the end of your Kilimanjaro expedition. This stage is a reflective journey, descending through the mountain's varying ecosystems. You'll pass lush rainforests and open moorlands, each step a reminder of the diverse beauty you've traversed. The path back is a time to celebrate your achievement and the bonds formed with fellow climbers and guides. Safety remains a priority, with our experts ensuring a smooth descent. Reaching Marangu Gate, you receive a certificate of accomplishment, a tangible reminder of your journey to the roof of Africa.
Hike - 20 km | 5-7 hours
Meals - Breakfast, Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Gran Melia
Enjoy a last delicious breakfast as the rising sun bathes the surrounding landscape in golden
light. Relive the great memories of the past few days. Your driver will transfer you to the
airport on time. Please note that this does not have to be the end of your trip. You always
have the option to combine your Tanzania trip with another tour. We wish you a pleasant
flight and goodbye.
Meals - Breakfast
MID-RANGE INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- Airport Transfers
- National Park Fees
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks
- Oxygen & Emergency Kit
- Boiled water, Coffee & Tea
- 15 kg Porter Service,(Baggage per Person)
- Dinning tent with Tables & Chairs
- Basic Sleeping Tent
MID-RANGE EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
LUXURY INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- VIP airport pick-up and drop-off
- All national park and conservation area fees
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks
- Premium accommodation in high-end lodges or luxury tented camps
- Oxygen & Emergency Kit
- Boiled Water, Coffee & Tea
- 20Kg Porter service (Baggage per Person)
- Dinning Tents with Tables and Chairs
- personal Porter
- Large Sleeping Tent
- Camp Bed
- Toilent Tent
- Washroom Tent
LUXURY EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
- Premium wines and spirits (unless specified)
FAQs
The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. It’s known for being quiet, dry, and scenic, offering a gentle, steady climb with less foot traffic and beautiful views across the Kenyan plains.
The standard and recommended itinerary is 9 days, which includes 7 days on the mountain plus arrival and departure days. This extended version includes an extra acclimatization day, greatly improving the chances of a successful summit.
Yes! Rongai is one of the best routes for first-time climbers, thanks to its gentle gradient, gradual altitude gain, and low daily elevation jumps. The dry conditions also make it easier underfoot.
The 9-day Rongai Route has a summit success rate of around 90%, thanks to the extra acclimatization day and slow, steady ascent profile. This makes it one of the most reliable and beginner-friendly options.
It’s the only route that starts on the northern side of Kilimanjaro
Less crowded than routes like Machame or Marangu
Offers drier conditions, ideal during wet seasons
Passes through remote wilderness, with chances to see wildlife like colobus monkeys and antelope
The route begins at Rongai Gate near the Kenya-Tanzania border and ascends through the northern slope. After summiting at Uhuru Peak, the descent follows the Marangu Route on the southern side — giving climbers a full cross-mountain experience.
Not at all — while it doesn’t have a rainforest start like Lemosho or Machame, it compensates with:
Expansive views across the Kenyan plains
A chance to see the rugged Mawenzi Peak
Sunrise from the summit over the northern valleys
Its remote, peaceful setting adds to its charm.
Yes — Rongai is one of the least crowded official routes on Kilimanjaro. It’s perfect for trekkers who want to avoid the busier camps of Machame or Marangu and prefer a more private, peaceful experience.
While Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, Rongai is especially ideal during:
January to early March
June to October
It also performs better in the rainy seasons (April–May, November) because the northern side receives much less rainfall.
A moderate fitness level is required. The trail is not technically difficult, but trekkers should be prepared for long walking days (5–7 hours) and the effects of altitude. Pre-trek hiking or cardio training is strongly recommended.
With Tanzaniatrail, you benefit from:
✅ Expert guides trained in altitude safety
✅ KPAP-compliant porter care
✅ Comfortable camping & equipment
✅ Personalized pace and full support
✅ A safe, respectful, and unforgettable adventure
We deliver not just a trek, but a well-guided journey to the top of Africa — with fewer crowds and more personal space.
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