Route Overview
The Rongai Route approaches Mount Kilimanjaro from the north near the Kenya border. It is drier than the southern routes and offers an unhurried, peaceful wilderness experience before joining the Marangu route at Kibo Hut for the summit assault.
Route Highlights
Day-by-Day Trek Itinerary
Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,650m)
Drive to the remote northern side. Start trek through pine forest and farmlands. Overnight at Simba Camp.
Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp (3,450m)
Steady ascent through moorland with wide-open views toward Kenya. Overnight at Second Cave Camp.
Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)
Trek off the main trail toward jagged Mawenzi Peak. Overnight at Kikelewa Camp.
Kikelewa to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
Short, steep climb to spectacular Mawenzi Tarn nestled beneath towering cliffs. Overnight at Mawenzi Tarn Camp.
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Cross the alpine desert of The Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo. Overnight at Kibo Hut.
Summit Day – Kibo to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descend to Horombo Hut
Midnight summit push via Gilman's Point to Uhuru Peak; descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m). Overnight at Horombo Hut.
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,860m)
Final descent past Mandara Hut through rainforest to Marangu Gate.
What’s Included
- Kilimanjaro park fees and conservation charges
- All camping equipment and mountain crew (guide, porters, cook)
- All meals and drinking water on the mountain
- Daily health checks and oxygen (if needed)
- Round-trip transport from Moshi/Arusha
- Emergency support and climbing certificate
What’s Excluded
- International flights & visa
- Trekking gear & sleeping bag
- Crew tipping
- Personal travel insurance
Rongai Route – Northern Approach
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