7-Day Rongai Route Trek

The Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north near the Kenyan border and is known for being quieter, drier, and more remote in feel. The official route page describes it as the only northern approach, a good choice during rainy periods, and a route that offers a slower, steady climb with comparatively few trekkers.

Day by day highlights

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

THE BUDGET:

7 Days from $1,980 per person

Price is an estimate only and is dependant on group size, age of children, time of year and your choice of camps.

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

The trek begins on the mountain’s northern side, where the atmosphere is more remote and often quieter than the southern routes. A steady first day leads you to Simba Camp for overnight. This start gives the route its distinct wilderness feeling.

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave

Continue climbing through open moorland with growing views across the mountain. The trail remains relatively calm and uncrowded, which is one of Rongai’s biggest appeals. Overnight is at Second Cave. This camp sequence follows the standard 7-day Rongai structure.

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

The route becomes steeper in places as you continue toward Kikelewa. The scenery feels increasingly alpine, and the mountain starts to show more of its high-altitude personality. Overnight is at Kikelewa Camp.

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn

A shorter but important acclimatization day brings you to Mawenzi Tarn beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi. The official route page notes that the 7-day version includes an acclimatization day around Mawenzi Tarn, unlike the shorter variation.

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Cross the high saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, entering a barren alpine desert environment. The day ends at Kibo Hut, where you rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut

Summit during the night and reach Uhuru Peak after the final ascent. Then descend via the Marangu side to Horombo Hut for overnight, which lets you see a different face of the mountain on the way down. The official route page notes that Rongai climbs from the north and descends via the south side.

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

Descend through moorland and rainforest back to Marangu Gate. After certificates and the usual summit formalities, transfer back to town.

Package Excludes

Park fees, rescue fee, and required government charges
Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook
Meals and drinking water during the trek
Camping equipment or hut accommodation depending on the route
Transfers between the hotel and park gate
Emergency oxygen and daily health monitoring
Fair wages for the mountain crew
Summit certificate for successful climbers

Package Includes

- International and domestic flights
- Visa and travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear and sleeping bag
- Tips for guides, porters, and cook
- Hotel accommodation before and after the trek unless stated
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
- Optional items such as portable toilet and gear rental
- Medical expenses and any extra evacuation costs