Is Rongai Route suitable for beginners?

Yes, the gentle slopes make it beginner-friendly with good fitness.

What is the summit height?

Uhuru Peak is 5,895 meters above sea level.

How crowded is the Rongai Route?

It is less crowded, offering a quieter trekking experience

How to prevent altitude sickness?

Ascend slowly, hydrate, and rest often

Can I combine this trek with a safari?

Yes, Serengeti and Ngorongoro safaris are popular post-trek options.

6 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route

Transportation
Transfers and Transportation
Accomodation
Hotel and Tents
Departure From
Arusha or Moshi
Best Season
January–March and June–October
Tour type
Tour and Hiking
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Language
Preferred Language
Fitness Level
Prepare with long walks and stairs
Group Size
2-15
Insurance Coverage
Should covers high-altitude trekking.
Minimum Age
12
Maximum Age
65

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

More Info

FAQs

6 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route-Overview

The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s northern trail, starting near the Kenyan border. It is one of the quieter routes, offering gentle slopes and beautiful landscapes. Over 6 days, hikers cross forests, moorlands, and alpine desert, gradually ascending to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point. This route is ideal for those seeking a peaceful trek with a high summit success rate.

Trip Highlights

Less crowded and peaceful trail
Gentle slopes allow gradual altitude adjustment
Scenic views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks
Diverse landscapes: rainforest, moorland, alpine desert
High summit success rate for climbers

6 Days Kilimanjaro Rongai Route-Itinerary

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The 6 Days Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s northern trail, starting near the Kenyan border. It is one of the quieter and less crowded routes, offering hikers a gentle ascent and diverse landscapes. Over six days, trekkers pass through lush forests, moorlands, and alpine desert, gradually acclimatizing before reaching Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. This route is ideal for those seeking a peaceful trek with a high chance of summit success

Arrival Day

After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will transfer to a hotel in Moshi or Arusha. Rest, prepare your gear, and attend a short briefing about the trek. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential before the climb

Day 1 :

Moshi / Arusha to Rongai Gate – Simba Camp

Distance: 8 km
Walking hours: 4–5 hrs
Elevation: 2,000 m → 2,600 m
Start trekking through scenic forests and camp at Simba Camp

Day 2 :

Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp

Distance: 7 km
Walking hours: 4–5 hrs
Elevation: 2,600 m → 3,600 m
Ascend gently through moorlands and rocky terrain to Second Cave Camp.

Day 3 :

Second Cave Camp to Kikelewa Camp

Distance: 10 km
Walking hours: 5–6 hrs
Elevation: 3,600 m → 4,200 m
Trek across alpine desert with stunning views of Kibo and Mawenzi peaks and camp at Kikelewa.

Day 4 :

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Distance: 6 km
Walking hours: 3–4 hrs
Elevation: 4,200 m → 4,700 m
Climb steadily through high-altitude plains and set camp at Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

Day 5 :

Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Uhuru Peak – Kibo Hut

Distance: 12 km
Walking hours: 10–12 hrs
Elevation: 4,700 m → 5,895 m → 4,700 m
Pre-dawn ascent to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, followed by descent to Kibo Hut for rest

Day 6 :

Kibo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Moshi

Distance: 15 km
Walking hours: 5–6 hrs
Elevation: 4,700 m → 1,800 m
Descend through alpine desert and moorlands, completing the trek at Marangu Gate before returning to Moshi.

All About Your Trek

Route & Terrain:

The Rongai Route passes through rainforests, heather zones, and rocky alpine desert. Trails are generally less steep than other routes, with gentle slopes that gradually lead to the summit. Hikers experience both open plains and rugged ridges with stunning mountain views

Duration & Pace

This is a 6-day trek with a steady pace to help with altitude adjustment. Daily distances range from 6 km to 15 km, with 3–12 hours of trekking depending on the day, allowing hikers enough time to rest and acclimatize

Accommodation & Facilities:

Accommodation includes a hotel in Moshi or Arusha for arrival and tents at mountain camps. Camps provide sleeping mats, basic toilet facilities, and full board meals prepared by trekking staff

Cultural Experience:

Along the lower slopes, hikers can experience Chagga culture, including local villages and traditional farming practices. Guides often share insights about Tanzanian life and mountain traditions

Best Time to Visit:

The best trekking periods are January–March and June–October, when weather is dry and skies are clear. Rainy months (April–May, November) can make trails slippery and more challenging

Preparation & Packing Tips:

Hikers should train with long walks, stair climbing, and carrying a backpack. Essential gear includes layered clothing, trekking poles, a warm sleeping bag, sturdy boots, sunscreen, and a hat

Health & Safety:

Stay hydrated, walk slowly to adjust to altitude, and use sun protection. Travel insurance with high-altitude coverage is recommended. Guides monitor your health and provide first aid if needed.

Environmental Responsibility:

Carry out all trash, avoid single-use plastics, and respect wildlife. Follow park rules and minimize your environmental impact during the trek

Additional Support:

Trained guides and porters assist with meals, camp setup, and gear transport. They also provide advice, encouragement, and safety support to ensure a smooth trekking experience.