Explore Africa’s Wild Heart
Tailored Safaris, Timeless Memories
Enjoy safaris and nature
Dive into the Tanzanian culture
Rongai Route: 6 Days / 5 Nights
The Rongai Route offers a unique trekking experience with stunning views and fewer crowds, ideal for climbers seeking tranquility.
About the Rongai Route
The Rongai Route is a favorite for its remote and serene trails, offering a gradual ascent with panoramic views from the northern side of Kilimanjaro.
Distance: Approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles).
Duration: 6 days and 5 nights, providing a shorter acclimatization schedule.
Starting Point: Rongai Gate, located near the Kenyan border.
Trek Highlights
- Scenic Beauty: Experience breathtaking views of open landscapes, wildlife, and alpine desert.
- High Summit Success Rate: Gradual ascent improves acclimatization and summit success chances.
- Tranquil Trails: Enjoy a quieter and more secluded trekking experience.
- Professional Team: Skilled guides, porters, and cooks ensure safety and an unforgettable journey.
6 Days / 5 Nights Itinerary
Day 1: Trek from Rongai Gate (1,950 meters) to Simba Camp (2,700 meters).
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Montane Forest
Day 2: Ascend to Second Cave Camp (3,450 meters), enjoying views of Kibo Peak.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 3: Trek to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters), surrounded by stunning wilderness.
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours | Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles) | Habitat: Moorland
Day 4: Hike to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,300 meters) for acclimatization.
Hiking Time: 4-5 hours | Distance: 8 km (5 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 5: Ascend to Kibo Hut (4,700 meters) for summit preparation.
Hiking Time: 5-6 hours | Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles) | Habitat: Alpine Desert
Day 6: Early morning summit attempt to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters), then descend to Horombo Hut (3,720 meters).
Hiking Time: 12-14 hours (summit and descent) | Distance: 21 km (13 miles) | Habitat: Arctic and Moorland
Success Rates
6-Day Itinerary: Approximately 80-85% success rate. Preparation and fitness are crucial for a successful climb.
What's Included
- Two nights at budget Hotel in Moshi (double or triple occupancy) before and after the climb.
- First night includes breakfast; last night includes dinner and breakfast.
- Qualified, experienced guides and mountain crew (guides, porters, cooks, and waiters).
- Salaries for all crew members.
- Kilimanjaro National Park fees.
- Hut and camping fees.
- Rescue fees (mandatory per park regulations).
- High-quality tents, foam sleeping pads, and cooking equipment.
- Complete cutlery and crockery.
- Pulse oximeters for daily health monitoring.
- Comprehensive first aid kit.
- All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Boiled drinking water on the mountain.
- Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Transfers to and from the Marangu Gate.
- Accommodation and entry fees for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
What's Not Included
- Single room supplement at budget Hotel.
- Tips for guides, porters, cooks, and waiters.
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
- Personal climbing gear (e.g., sleeping bags). Rental options available.
- Car supplement of USD $145 for Lemosho, Rongai, or Shira Routes (if applicable).
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, snacks).
- Emergency oxygen.
- Additional activities (e.g., waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
- Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included.
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- International and domestic flight tickets.
What Our Rongai 6-Day Trekkers Say
"The Rongai Route was an unforgettable adventure. Starting on the drier northern side of Kilimanjaro, the route offered unique landscapes and stunning views of Kenya. The Via Africa Expeditions team ensured every step of the journey was enjoyable and safe." - Emily R.
"The Rongai 6-day trek was an incredible experience. The gradual ascent made it easier to acclimatize, and the summit day was nothing short of magical. The guides and porters from Via Africa Expeditions were outstanding!" - Daniel M.
"The Rongai Route provided a quieter and more intimate trekking experience. Reaching Uhuru Peak after an early start was the highlight of my trip, and the team's professionalism and care were exceptional throughout." - Sarah T.
"Via Africa Expeditions exceeded all my expectations on the Rongai trek. The guides' expertise, the team's dedication, and the breathtaking views along the route made it an adventure I'll cherish forever." - Mark L.
Choose Your Rongai Trek Duration
Experience the Rongai Route with the perfect trek duration. Select the 7-day adventure to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro!

"Absolutely the best safari experience! Unforgettable from start to finish." – John Doe

"Incredible views, amazing guides, and a truly unique adventure." – Jane Smith

"Highly recommend! Everything was beyond our expectations." – Michael Brown