6 Days Rongai Route – Kilimanjaro Trek

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Tour Overview

The Rongai Route is considered one of the easiest and most scenic trails on Kilimanjaro. Starting from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border, the path offers a quieter and less-crowded trekking experience. Climbers pass through lush rainforest, moorland, and alpine desert, reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point, and descend through the Marangu route, offering a circular and diverse view of Kilimanjaro’s ecosystems.

Duration: 8 Days (6 Trekking Days)
From: $2,995 USD per person
Route Type: Ascent via Rongai, Descent via Marangu
Trek Level: Moderate
Success Rate: High
Start Point: Rongai Gate (Nalemoru)
End Point: Marangu Gate

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Transfer to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by your driver and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. A trek briefing and gear check with your mountain guide will take place in the evening.

• Meals: None

• Overnight: Lodge (or similar – mid-range)

Day 2: Rongai Gate (Nalemoru) to Simba Camp

After breakfast, we drive to the trailhead near the village of Nale Moru. The hike begins through farmland and pine forest before gradually climbing into the moorland zone with beautiful views of the Kenyan plains.

• Elevation: 2,000m to 2,650m

• Distance: 6 km

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Montane Forest

• Meals: B, L, D

• Overnight: Simba Camp

Day 3: Simba Camp to Second Cave

A steady climb with panoramic views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields. You’ll reach Second Cave for a scenic overnight stop.

• Elevation: 2,650m to 3,450m

• Distance: 6 km

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Moorland

• Meals: B, L, D

• Overnight: Second Cave Camp

Day 4: Second Cave to Third Cave

Today’s hike is shorter but crucial for acclimatization. You’ll trek through semi-desert terrain to reach Third Cave.

• Elevation: 3,450m to 3,880m

• Distance: 9 km

• Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

• Habitat: Semi-desert

• Meals: B, L, D

• Overnight: Third Cave Camp

Day 5: Third Cave to Kibo Hut

We head towards the alpine desert zone, reaching Kibo Hut at the base of the summit. You’ll rest early and prepare for the midnight ascent to Uhuru Peak.

• Elevation: 3,880m to 4,750m

• Distance: 5 km

• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Meals: B, L, D

• Overnight: Kibo Hut Camp

Day 6: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Down to Horombo Hut

At midnight, begin your summit attempt. Reach Gilman’s Point at sunrise, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After photos and celebration, descend to Kibo for rest and continue to Horombo Hut.

• Elevation: 4,750m to 5,895m (summit), down to 3,700m

• Distance: 21 km total (6 km up, 15 km down)

• Hiking Time: 12–15 hours

• Habitat: Alpine Desert

• Meals: B, L, D

• Overnight: Horombo Hut Camp

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate – Return to Arusha

Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate where you’ll receive your summit certificates. A driver will transfer you back to Arusha.

• Elevation: 3,700m to 1,700m

• Distance: 20 km

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Habitat: Forest

• Meals: B

• Overnight: Lodge (or similar – mid-range)

Day 8: Departure

Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport or continue on with a Tanzania safari.

• Meals: B

Pricing Table

Prices are in USD per person (valid through Dec 31, 2025):

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