Next group departure: Machame · 7 days · Oct 20–26, 2026Join this group

Rongai Route Itinerary

6 Days | Moderate

The Northern Approach - Quieter and Drier

Route Overview

The Rongai Route is the only path that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. It is drier and quieter than the southern routes, which makes it a strong choice during the wetter months.

The ascent is gentle and gradual, and your descent follows the Marangu Route. Hotel nights in Moshi before and after the trek are included, so the day-by-day below covers the climb itself.

Every Nyota climb is private: your group, your dates, your pace.

Pricing (USD)

$2,695 per person (1-3 climbers)

Group rate, 4 or more: $2,205 per person

Book Now

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Nale Moru Gate to Simba Camp

Elevation
1,950m to 2,600m
Distance
8km
Time
3-4 hours
Terrain
Rainforest and moorland

Begin at Nale Moru Gate on the northern side of Kilimanjaro, near the Kenyan border. The trail winds through pine forest and farmland before opening onto the moorland edge. This gentle start is ideal for easing into the altitude.

Highlights:

Northern approach - quieter trail
Pine forest and farmland
Gentle first day
Simba Camp on the moorland edge
Accommodation: Simba Camp (tents)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
2

Simba Camp to Second Cave

Elevation
2,600m to 3,450m
Distance
10km
Time
5-6 hours
Terrain
Moorland

Trek across open moorland with sweeping views toward Kibo and Mawenzi. The route stays relatively gentle, which suits the northern approach and helps your body begin to acclimatize.

Highlights:

Wide moorland views
First clear views of Kibo and Mawenzi
Steady, gentle ascent
Quiet northern slopes
Accommodation: Second Cave Camp (tents)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3

Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp

Elevation
3,450m to 3,600m
Distance
8km
Time
4-5 hours
Terrain
Moorland

A short day that gives you more time to acclimatize. Cross rolling moorland with giant groundsels and lobelias, arriving early enough to rest and enjoy the open landscape.

Highlights:

Short acclimatization day
Giant groundsels and lobelias
Open moorland camp
Early rest and hydration
Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp (tents)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4

Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn

Elevation
3,600m to 4,330m
Distance
7km
Time
4-5 hours
Terrain
Alpine desert

A steep but short climb brings you to Mawenzi Tarn, a striking camp tucked beneath the jagged Mawenzi Peak. The views here are among the most dramatic on the mountain.

Highlights:

Camp beneath Mawenzi Peak
Dramatic alpine scenery
Optional acclimatization walk
Sunset over the tarn
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (tents)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5

Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

Elevation
4,330m to 4,700m
Distance
8km
Time
4-5 hours
Terrain
Alpine desert

Cross the lunar-like saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Hut, your base camp for the summit. Arrive early for an early dinner and rest before the midnight start.

Highlights:

The Saddle crossing
Reach summit base camp
Summit briefing
Early rest before midnight
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (tents)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6

Summit Day - Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak and Descent

Elevation
4,700m to 5,895m to 3,720m
Distance
6km up, 16km down
Time
10-15 hours total
Terrain
Scree, ice, alpine desert

Start around midnight and climb steep scree to Gilman’s Point on the crater rim at sunrise. Continue along the rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. Descend to Horombo Hut to celebrate your summit, then transfer to Moshi the following morning.

Highlights:

Midnight summit attempt
Sunrise at Gilman’s Point
Uhuru Peak - Roof of Africa
Glaciers and crater views
Summit certificate
Accommodation: Horombo Hut / Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Standard route? Book now with just a 30% deposit.

Lock in your dates, guides, and permits today. The balance is due 45 days before departure.

Book Now

Something custom? Get a personal quote, no payment taken.

Route ideas, trek and safari combos, or special requests. We'll email your tailored quote.

Request a Quote

What's Included

Airport pickup and drop-off transfers
Hotel accommodation before and after trek
Professional mountain guide and assistant guides
All park fees and camping fees
Rescue fees and government taxes
All meals on the mountain
Filtered water throughout the trek
Quality camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
Porters to carry camping equipment and supplies
Fair wages and ethical treatment of porters
First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Pulse oximeter for health monitoring
Transport to Nale Moru Gate and from Marangu Gate

Not Included

International flights
Tanzania visa fees
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, clothing)
Tips for guides and porters
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Additional hotel nights
Optional activities in Moshi

Trek Details

Duration
6 Days
Best Time
Year-round
Peak: Jan-Mar & Jun-Oct
Group Size
Private trek
Difficulty
Moderate
Accommodation
Camping