Kilimanjaro Trek via Rongai Route - 7 Days
Tour Overview
Kilimanjaro Climb via Rongai Route – 7 Days
The Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m / 19,341 ft) from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. Known for its remote feel, low foot traffic, and drier climate, it offers a more solitary and peaceful experience compared to the crowded southern routes.
The 7-day itinerary includes a crucial acclimatization day, significantly increasing your chances of reaching the summit safely and comfortably. You’ll ascend through changing landscapes—from pine forest and moorland to alpine desert—before descending on the Marangu Route, giving you a full traverse of Kilimanjaro’s varied ecological zones.
Safari Highlights
Least crowded route on Kilimanjaro.
Spectacular views of the Kenyan plains and Mawenzi Peak.
Gradual ascent—excellent for acclimatization.
One of the few routes that passes the Mawenzi Tarn, a dramatic alpine lake.
Descent on a different route (Marangu), offering full mountain exposure.
Perfect for those seeking solitude, scenery, and success.
Route: Shira Route
Type: Camping Trek
Duration: 7 Days on the Mountain / 6 Nights Camping
Start Point: Shira Gate (3,400m)
End Point: Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Max Elevation: Uhuru Peak (5,895m / 19,341 ft)
Acclimatization: Important due to high starting elevation
Best For: Experienced trekkers or well-prepared hikers seeking a remote route with fewer crowds
Price - Based on2 Pax $ 2,115 Per Person
Kilimanjaro Rongai Route Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Kilimanjaro
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), you’ll be warmly greeted by a representative from Travencia Safaris. After a friendly welcome and short briefing, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. As you drive through the foothills of Kilimanjaro, keep an eye on the horizon, on clear days, the mountain may reveal itself briefly before retreating behind clouds. This first glimpse of Africa’s tallest peak often stirs a mix of excitement and awe.
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast.
Day 2: Nalemoru Gate (1,950m) → Simba Camp (2,625m)
Your journey begins after breakfast with a transfer to the remote Nalemoru Gate, near the Kenyan border. After registration and meeting your mountain crew, begin your trek through cultivated farmland and lush pine forest. Watch for colobus monkeys and forest birds along the trail. The path is steady and not too steep. Arrive at Simba Camp in a clearing overlooking the plains. Overnight at Simba Camp, Meals included Lunch & Dinner.
- Distance: ~4 km
- Hiking Time: 1–2 hours
Day 3: Simba amp → Second Cave (3,450m)
A short and gradual hike through moorland terrain with beautiful views of Kibo Peak ahead. You’ll reach Second Cave by early afternoon, allowing time for rest and acclimatization. This slow-paced day helps your body adjust to the altitude and sets you up for summit success. Overnight at Second Cave Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~6 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 4: Second Cave → Kikelewa Camp (3,630m)
Continue trekking across open moorland with wide views toward Mawenzi. The trail becomes steeper as you climb toward Kikelewa Camp, nestled in a protected valley near large senecio plants. This short stage also supports acclimatization. Overnight at Kikelewa Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~6 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 5: Kikelewa Camp → Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
Today’s climb is steep but rewarding, taking you up to Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most scenic camps on Kilimanjaro. Situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak, the camp sits beside a stunning alpine lake. In the afternoon, you’ll take an acclimatization hike up the ridges above camp. Overnight at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Distance: ~5 km
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Today you cross the Saddle, a stark, high-altitude desert that links Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. This dramatic, windswept landscape feels like another planet. The trail is gradual but long, ending at Kibo Hut—your summit base camp. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for the midnight summit attempt. Overnight at Kibo Hut, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~8 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 7: Summit Day – Kibo Hut → Uhuru Peak (5,895m) → Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Begin your summit push just after midnight, climbing switchbacks to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) on the crater rim. From there, it’s a gradual path along the rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. Enjoy the sunrise and panoramic views before descending back to Kibo Hut for rest and a hot meal. Continue your descent to Horombo Hut, where you’ll sleep at a much lower (and more comfortable) altitude. Overnight at Horombo Hut, Meals included Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Distance: ~6 km ascent + 16 km descent
Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Day 8: Horombo Hut → Marangu Gate (1,860m) → Transfer to Moshi/Arusha
Enjoy your final walk through heath and rainforest zones. The descent is long but scenic, with a chance to see monkeys and colorful birds. At Marangu Gate, you’ll receive your official Kilimanjaro summit certificate and bid farewell to your mountain team. Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha for a well-earned rest.
- Accommodation: Planet Lodge.
- Meals: Bed & Breakfast.
PRICING INCLUDES
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after the trek, with breakfast included)
- Comfortable, high-quality, four-season mountain tents (shared by two climbers)
- Mess tent for dining and shelter
- Sleeping mattress
- All park entry fees, camping fees, and rescue fees
- Professional, experienced mountain guides (Wilderness First Responder certified)
- Assistant guides, cooks, and porters to support you throughout the trek
- Emergency oxygen cylinder carried on the trek for safety purposes
- Pulse oximeter monitoring (daily health checks)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner), freshly prepared by our mountain chef
- Drinking water (filtered and treated)
- Summit certificate from Kilimanjaro National Park
- Fair wages for guides, cooks, and porters (following Kilimanjaro Porter Assistance Project guidelines)
- Transfer to and from the Kilimanjaro National Park gate
- Pre-climb briefing with your guide
PRICING EXCLUDES
- International airfare to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania entry visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (recommended guidelines will be provided)
- Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking poles, etc.)
- Lunch and dinner in Arusha (except breakfast at the hotel)
- Additional hotel nights beyond those included in the itinerary (if required)
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry)
- Beverages other than those served with meals (soft drinks, alcohol)
- Optional activities or excursions before or after your trek
- Half-day room use if your departure flight is late and you wish to rest after check-out (available at extra cost)
- Portable power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices
Inquire This Tour
Acclimatization Considerations – Rongai Route – 7 Days.
The 7-day Rongai Route is one of the most favorable Kilimanjaro itineraries for acclimatization, combining a gentle ascent profile, lower crowd levels, and the strategic inclusion of an extra acclimatization day. Approaching from the remote northern side of the mountain, this route offers a quieter, scenic, and highly effective climb for both new and experienced trekkers.
Gradual Ascent = Excellent Acclimatization
Starting at Rongai Gate (1,950m), the route climbs gradually through forest, heath, and alpine desert zones. The steady daily elevation gains allow the body to adjust slowly, reducing the likelihood of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and improving summit success rates.
Extra Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,300m):
The 7-day version includes an acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most scenic and isolated camps on Kilimanjaro. This rest day is vital — allowing trekkers to experience higher altitudes while sleeping low, a proven method to boost oxygen efficiency and physical readiness.
Climb High, Sleep Low” Advantage
The additional day and route layout support the climb high, sleep low technique — especially with treks to nearby ridgelines or viewpoints above Mawenzi Tarn, further improving acclimatization without overexertion.
Hydration, Nutrition & Steady Pacing Are Key
Even with an ideal altitude profile, trekkers should stay vigilant: drink water frequently, maintain a steady pace, eat regularly, and rest well to ensure the body continues to adapt throughout the ascent.
Ideal for First-Time and Cautious Trekkers
The 7-day Rongai Route is recommended for:
- First-time high-altitude hikers
- Trekkers concerned about altitude sickness
- Those seeking a quieter, more remote experience without technical difficulty
- Anyone prioritizing a safer, more comfortable summit approach
Preventive Altitude Medication (Optional):
While the route allows natural acclimatization, some trekkers may still benefit from preventive altitude medication like Diamox (consult your doctor). It’s also wise to learn the early signs of AMS and communicate any symptoms to your guide promptly.
Experience & Support
- Led by expert Travencia Safaris mountain guides, certified in Wilderness First Response (WFR).
- Supported by a full mountain crew (guides, cooks, porters).
- Emergency protocols in place, including oxygen, oximeters, and park rescue access.
- All camping equipment and hot meals included.
Frequently Asked Questions – Rongai Route Trek
What is the Rongai Route?
The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro trail that approaches the mountain from the north, near the Kenyan border. It’s quieter and drier than the southern routes, offering a more remote and wilderness-like experience. You’ll ascend via Rongai and descend via the Marangu Route, creating a full cross-mountain trek.a
Is the Rongai Route difficult?
It is considered a moderate route in terms of difficulty. The path has a gradual and steady ascent, which makes it ideal for beginners or those looking for an easier approach. However, summit day is still challenging due to the altitude and long hours of hiking.
What makes the Rongai Route unique?
- It’s less crowded than Machame or Marangu
- It passes the stunning Mawenzi Tarn, a high-altitude lake
- Views of Kenyan plains and Mawenzi Peak are spectacular
- Dryer climate, especially useful in rainy seasons
- It offers a full north-to-south traverse of the mountain
What is the success rate on the Rongai Route?
The 7-day version has a high success rate (~85–90%) due to a good acclimatization profile. The extra acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn significantly improves your chances of reaching the summit safely.
When is the best time to trek the Rongai Route?
- Best months: January–March and June–October
- The northern approach is drier, so it’s a great choice even in the shoulder seasons
- Avoid April–May and November due to heavier rainfall, unless you specifically want solitude
What is the accommodation like?
On the mountain, you’ll stay in camping tents (not huts like on the Marangu Route). Most companies provide four-season tents, foam sleeping pads, and a private mess tent.
Before and after the trek, you stay in a lodge or hotel in Moshi.
Do I need to be super fit to do the Rongai Route?
No technical skills are needed, but good physical fitness is required. You’ll be hiking for 4–8 hours a day, and summit day can last 12–15 hours. Training with cardio, long walks, and stair climbing is highly recommended.
What should I pack?
You need proper layered clothing, a warm sleeping bag, sturdy hiking boots, and other essentials. See the Packing List – Explanatory Form for a full guide. If you’re missing anything, gear rental is available in Moshi.
How do I prevent altitude sickness?
- Walk slowly (“pole pole”)
- Drink 3–4 liters of water per day
- Eat enough calories
- Rest early and often
- Take the acclimatization day seriously
- Consider Diamox (altitude medication) after consulting your doctor
Your guides will monitor you daily using oximeters and watch for any symptoms.
What about toilets and hygiene?
Most tour operators offer portable private toilet tents at camps. Public long-drop toilets exist but are often basic. Handwashing stations, warm water for sponge baths, and wet wipes are your best friends on the mountain.
What kind of food is provided?
You’ll be served hot, energy-rich meals prepared by your trekking chef. Meals usually include:
- Breakfast: porridge, eggs, toast, fruit, tea/coffee
- Lunch: hot meals or packed lunches with sandwiches, fruit, snacks
- Dinner: soup, rice/pasta, meat or vegetarian dishes
Special diets (vegan, gluten-free, etc.) can be accommodated with prior notice.
Is there electricity or Wi-Fi on the route?
There is no electricity or network coverage on most of the mountain. Bring power banks or solar chargers to keep your devices alive. Disconnecting is part of the adventure!
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. You need insurance that covers:
- High-altitude trekking (above 4,500 meters)
- Emergency evacuation
Medical treatment
Make sure your provider includes Kilimanjaro-specific coverage
Is the Rongai Route safe?
Yes, when done with a licensed and reputable tour operator. Safety protocols include:
- Experienced guides trained in Wilderness First Response (WFR)
- Daily health checks
- Emergency oxygen and evacuation plans
- Park ranger coordination for rescues
