Kilimanjaro: Rongai Route 6-Day Hiking Adventure

Embark on a 6-day hiking adventure on the Rongai Route of Kilimanjaro. Enjoy the seclusion of the Rongai Route, which is rarely visited by hikers.
Overview

The Rongai Route is one of the northern approaches to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It’s less crowded compared to the popular Marangu and Machame routes, offering a more remote and serene hiking experience. This 6-day itinerary provides a gradual ascent, increasing your chances of reaching the summit successfully.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi / Kilimanjaro → Rongai Gate → First Camp

Drive: From Nairobi or Kilimanjaro Airport to Rongai Gate.

Start Hiking: Trek through forest zones with lush vegetation.

Distance / Duration: ~6–8 km, 3–4 hours

Camp: Simba Camp or equivalent (~2,700 m)

Day 2: Rongai Camp → Second Camp

Terrain: Open moorland with beautiful views of the northern slopes.

Distance / Duration: ~8–10 km, 4–5 hours

Camp: Second Camp (~3,200 m)

Day 3: Second Camp → Third Camp

Terrain: Alpine desert begins; fewer trees, more rocky paths.

Distance / Duration: ~8 km, 4–5 hours

Camp: Third Camp (~3,800 m)

Day 4: Third Camp → Kibo Hut / High Camp

Terrain: Rugged alpine desert; stunning panoramic views.

Distance / Duration: ~6–8 km, 4–5 hours

Camp: Kibo Hut (~4,700 m)

Preparation: Early dinner and rest for summit night.

Day 5: Summit Day (Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak → Return to High Camp)

Start Time: Around midnight for summit attempt.

Summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) at sunrise.

Return: Descend to High Camp (~4,700 m) for rest.

Distance / Duration: 12–14 km round trip, 10–12 hours

Day 6: High Camp → Rongai Gate → Nairobi / Kilimanjaro

Descent: Trek back through moorland and forest zones.

Distance / Duration: ~15 km, 5–6 hours

Transfer: Drive back to airport or Nairobi.

Highlights

Less crowded northern approach

Gradual ascent, good for altitude acclimatization

Stunning northern scenery and wildlife sightings

Opportunity to experience alpine desert and glaciers at summit

Packing Essentials

Warm layered clothing (temperatures drop below -10°C at summit)

Hiking boots, gaiters, trekking poles

Headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen

Water bottles or hydration system (2–3 L recommended)

Lightweight sleeping bag (-10°C rating recommended)

Tips for Success

Maintain a slow, steady pace to avoid altitude sickness.

Stay hydrated and eat regularly during hikes.

Acclimatize properly; the Rongai Route’s gentle slope helps.

Listen to guides’ advice and rest when needed.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.