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The journey
Experience Mount Kilimanjaro from its quieter northern side on this six-day Rongai Route trek. Approaching the mountain near the Kenya border, the route is known for quieter trails, remote wilderness, and a relatively gradual ascent through forest, moorland, and alpine desert. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak and the Kenyan plains before reaching the Kibo summit area. After summiting Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m, Africa's highest point, descend via the Marangu side of the mountain.
At a glance
Day by day
Drive to the northern side of Kilimanjaro and complete registration at Nalemoru Gate.
Meet the mountain crew and begin trekking through farmland and pine/montane forest toward Simba Camp.
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at camp.
Elevation: about 1,950 m to 2,625 m
Distance: 7-8 km
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Continue steadily through moorland toward Second Cave, with views of Kibo and the Kenyan plains.
After lunch, leave the main trail and continue toward Kikelewa Camp.
Dinner and overnight at camp.
Elevation: about 2,625 m to 3,630 m
Distance: 10-12 km
Hiking: 5-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Make a shorter but steeper climb toward Mawenzi Tarn beneath the dramatic Mawenzi Peak.
Enjoy the high-altitude scenery, rest, and allow time for acclimatization.
Elevation: about 3,630 m to 4,300-4,330 m
Distance: 5-6 km
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Cross the broad Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo through a dry, rocky alpine desert.
Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon, have an early dinner, and rest before the midnight summit attempt.
Elevation: about 4,300 m to 4,703 m
Distance: about 8 km
Hiking: 5-6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Begin the summit climb around midnight.
Ascend toward Gilman's Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak at 5,895 m, Africa's highest point.
After celebrating and taking photographs, descend to Kibo for a short rest and continue to Horombo Hut for overnight.
Summit: 5,895 m
Total hiking: about 12-16 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Descend through moorland and montane rainforest to Marangu Gate.
Complete park exit procedures and collect summit certificates for successful summit participants.
Transfer back to Moshi or Arusha.
Elevation: about 3,720 m to 1,860 m
Distance: about 18 km
Hiking: 5-7 hours
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
The route
The fine print
Bring warm layers.
Waterproof clothing.
Hiking boots.
Gloves.
Warm hat.
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen.
Headlamp.
Personal medication.
A suitable sleeping bag.
Summit success depends on weather, trail conditions, altitude, and the trekker's health and fitness.
Uhuru Peak cannot be guaranteed because mountain conditions can change rapidly.
Follow the guide's instructions and maintain a slow, steady pace for acclimatization.
Appropriate travel and medical insurance is strongly recommended.
The guide may adjust the itinerary for safety, weather, or park regulations.
Logistics
Your 6 days finish where they began, in Nalemoru/Rongai Gate.
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