The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro route that approaches the mountain from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. It is known for being quieter, less crowded, and more gradual, making it an excellent option for climbers seeking a more peaceful trekking experience.
This route is especially suitable during the rainy seasons, as the northern slopes receive less rainfall compared to the southern routes. The Rongai Route offers wide open landscapes, scenic wilderness, and excellent views of Mawenzi Peak before crossing the saddle to summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m).
Nano Africa Safaris recommends the Rongai Route for climbers who prefer a steady ascent, fewer crowds, and a classic descent via Marangu Route.
8 Days & 7 Nights
Lodges / Tented Camps
Private, Group Tour
4x4 WD Land Cruiser
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by a Nano Africa Safaris representative and transferred to your hotel. The hotel provides comfortable rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, and friendly staff.
In the evening, you will attend a pre-climb briefing with our management and mountain team. Your equipment will be checked, and the itinerary reviewed to ensure you are fully prepared for the climb.
Important Notes:
Group packages include shared airport transfers
Extra charges apply for separate individual transfers
Hotel check-in starts at 2:00 PM
Rongai Route – Day 2
In the morning, your guide and mountain crew will meet you at the hotel before driving to Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m / 6,627 ft), the northern entrance to Kilimanjaro National Park. After registration and permit formalities, the trek begins.
The trail ascends gradually through coniferous forest on Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. The pace is gentle, allowing your body to begin adjusting to the altitude. Upon arrival at Simba Camp (2,671 m / 8,761 ft), the camp will already be fully prepared by our crew.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Distance: 8 km (4.9 miles)
Acclimatization Advice:
Drink at least 4 liters of water per day
Walk slowly and maintain a steady pace
Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell
Rongai Route – Day 3
After breakfast, you will continue your ascent toward Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m / 11,906 ft). The trail becomes steeper, and the vegetation gradually thins as you gain altitude. On clear days, you’ll enjoy impressive views of Mount Kibo.
Once at camp, rest is strongly recommended to aid acclimatization.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Rongai Route – Day 4
After an early breakfast, you will trek toward Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315 m / 14,156 ft), located beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest summit.
After lunch and a rest period, you will complete an acclimatization hike toward Mawenzi Volcano before descending back to camp for dinner.
Main Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Acclimatization Hike:
Elevation gain: from 4,315 m (14,156 ft) to 4,510 m (14,796 ft)
Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
Time: 1–2 hours
Rongai Route – Day 5
Today’s trek crosses the Saddle, a wide alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. You will hike to Kibo Hut (4,720 m / 15,482 ft), the base camp for your summit attempt.
Upon arrival, you will rest, hydrate, and prepare for the night ascent to the summit.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 9 km (5.5 miles)
Rongai Route – Day 6
Around midnight, you will begin the final ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m / 19,336 ft). Although the trail is not technical, the altitude makes this the most demanding part of the climb. Our guides carefully monitor each climber throughout the ascent.
After reaching the summit and celebrating your achievement, you will descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue down to Horombo Camp (3,720 m / 12,202 ft).
Trekking Time: 12–14 hours
Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
Safety Note:
Extra caution is required during descent, as most injuries occur on the way down.
Rongai Route – Day 7
After breakfast, you will descend through heathland and rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,970 m / 6,462 ft). Here, you will sign out of the park and officially complete your Kilimanjaro trek.
You will receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificates, followed by a transfer back to your hotel.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Distance: 18 km (11.1 miles)
Enjoy breakfast and relaxation at the hotel before your transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Important Note:
Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM
Late check-out can be arranged at an additional cost