Route Overview
The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro's northern approach, starting near the Kenyan border. It’s ideal for gradual acclimatization, scenic northern landscapes, and fewer crowds. Enjoy trekking through rainforest, moorlands, alpine desert, and finally glaciers before reaching Uhuru Peak.
Day 1: Arusha → Rongai Gate → Simba Camp (2,400m)
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Moshi town. Drive to Rongai Gate, meet guides and porters, complete gear checks, and attend trek briefing. Begin trekking through lush forest trails, spotting monkeys and birds. Overnight at Simba Camp for gentle acclimatization.
Day 2: Simba Camp → Second Cave Camp (3,200m)
Trek through rainforest into moorland. Spot giant lobelias and groundsels. Views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks emerge. Easy acclimatization and scenic trekking. Settle at Second Cave Camp with dinner and briefing for next day.
Day 3: Second Cave → Kikelewa Caves → Mawenzi Tarn (4,000m)
Leave the forest behind and enter the alpine desert. Pass Kikelewa Caves and enjoy panoramic views of the northern route. Spot wildlife and unique flora. Overnight at Mawenzi Tarn Camp below the majestic Mawenzi peak.
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Trek across the lunar-like alpine desert with minimal vegetation. Gradual ascent aids acclimatization. Reach Kibo Hut in the afternoon, have dinner, and rest before midnight summit. Guides check equipment and briefing.
Day 5: Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Millennium Camp (3,100m)
Summit attempt begins around midnight. Trek through scree and rocky slopes to Stella Point at the crater rim. Witness sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Celebrate, take photos, and descend via alpine desert to Millennium Camp for overnight rest.
Day 6: Millennium Camp → Marangu Gate → Arusha
Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Celebrate summit success with guides. Scenic drive back to Arusha or Moshi for onward travel. Trek complete.
