From:
$1,700
/Person
6 or 7 days
Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m / 6,627 f)
About
Highlights
Kilimanjaro’s only route approaching from the north
Dry and less humid — ideal during rainy season
Low traffic: fewer climbers, more solitude
Gradual ascent profile improves acclimatisation
Beautiful wilderness campsites and scenic crater views
Description
The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It's less traveled than routes on the southern face, offering more solitude and a dry, sheltered environment — especially useful during the rainy season.
The trail starts in open countryside before entering pine forest, and then transitions into high moorland and alpine desert. Camps are remote, quiet, and scenic. On the 7-day version, you’ll spend an extra night at the stunning Mawenzi Tarn, surrounded by jagged volcanic spires.
Summit day approaches Uhuru Peak via the Kibo Saddle and descends down the Marangu Route on the southern side of the mountain — giving you a full traverse of Kilimanjaro.
All treks are led by Dulla and his highly experienced team, with a deep commitment to fair porter treatment and client care.
“Rongai is peaceful and wild. I recommend it for people who want quiet time with the mountain — especially during the rainy season. The 7-day version with Mawenzi Tarn is something special.”
Pricing Breakdown
Pricing Packages
Group Size | Price per Person (pax) |
|---|---|
1-2 pax | $2,000 |
3-4 pax | $1,900 |
5-10 pax | $1,800 |
10+ pax | $1,700 |
Price Includes
Airport transfers (to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
2 nights at a hotel in Arusha (before and after the trek)
Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees and permits
All meals and purified drinking water during the trek
Private toilet tent for groups of 4+
Professional English-speaking guide(s)
Experienced local porters (fair pay and reasonable loads)
Cook and kitchen staff
Four-season mountain tents (2 climbers per tent)
Sleeping mats
Emergency oxygen and first-aid kit
Daily health checks with pulse oximeter
Rescue fees (where applicable)
Price Doesn't Include
Flights and visa
Tips for guides, porters, and cook
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear (rental available)
Meals in Arusha (lunch and dinner)
Extra hotel nights before or after the trek
Daily Itinerary
Please note: 7-day itinerary shown by default; 6-day version is noted where it differs
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Pickup at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Pre-climb briefing, equipment check, and rest.
Day 2: Nalemuru Gate (1,950m) – Simba Camp (2,620m)
Drive north to Rongai Gate (~3–4 hrs). Start the trek through cultivated farmland and pine forest, home to colobus monkeys and wildlife. Camp at Simba in open moorland.
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
Day 3: Simba Camp – Second Cave Camp (3,450m)
Ascend steadily through heather and moorland with panoramic views of Kibo and the Eastern Ice Fields. A relatively easy day to help with acclimatisation.
Distance: 6 km
Hiking Time: 4–5 hrs
Day 4: Second Cave – Kikelewa Camp (3,630m)
Climb gradually through alpine vegetation with increasing altitude. Spectacular views of Mawenzi, Kilimanjaro’s second-highest peak.
Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
Day 5: Kikelewa – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
A short but steep ascent up grassy slopes into the high alpine zone. Mawenzi Tarn sits beneath towering volcanic cliffs and is one of the most beautiful campsites on the mountain.
Distance: 4 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hrs
(Skipped on 6-day itinerary)
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Cross the wide lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The landscape is dry, windy, and barren. Reach Kibo Hut for rest before the summit.
Distance: 9 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hrs
Day 7: Summit Day – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Midnight wakeup for the summit attempt. Climb to Gilman’s Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak. After celebrations and photos, descend to Kibo, then down to Horombo.
Distance: 21 km
Hiking Time: 12–14 hrs
