Kilimanjaro Climb Tour Overview
The 6 Days Rongai Route is a unique and rewarding way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching the mountain from its remote northern side, close to the Kenya–Tanzania border. Unlike the more popular southern routes, Rongai offers a peaceful trekking experience with fewer climbers, making it ideal for travelers who value tranquility and a strong connection with nature.
This route is known for its steady and gradual ascent, which allows trekkers to gain altitude at a manageable pace. The northern side of Kilimanjaro also receives less rainfall, making Rongai an excellent option during the rainy seasons. Throughout the trek, climbers enjoy changing landscapes, from forest and moorland to alpine desert and glacial summit terrain.
The route joins the Marangu Route near the summit, allowing climbers to ascend via Gilman’s Point and descend through the well-established Marangu trail. The climb officially ends at Marangu Gate, completing a full and memorable Kilimanjaro journey.
Tour Highlights
Quiet and uncrowded route
Rongai is one of the least trafficked routes, offering a more exclusive climbing experience.
Favorable weather conditions
The northern side is generally drier, increasing comfort and success rates.
Gradual altitude gain
Well-spaced elevation increases support steady acclimatization.
Stunning mountain scenery
Enjoy views of Kibo Peak, Mawenzi Peak, and wide alpine landscapes.
Classic summit ascent
Reach Uhuru Peak via Gilman’s Point and descend through Marangu Route.
Day by Day Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi – Rongai Gate (1,950 m) – Simba Camp (2,600 m)
After an early breakfast in Moshi, drive to Rongai Gate for registration and briefing. The trek begins through cultivated farmland before entering a quiet forest zone. The trail is gentle, making this day ideal for warming up and adjusting to the trekking rhythm. You arrive at Simba Camp in the afternoon with time to rest and enjoy the surrounding wilderness.
Highlight
Calm forest trekking and first views of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours.
Day 2: Simba Camp (2,600 m) – Second Cave Camp (3,450 m)
Continue ascending steadily as the forest thins into open moorland. The terrain becomes drier, and the views expand across the northern plains. This day introduces higher altitude while maintaining a manageable pace. You reach Second Cave Camp, where the air is noticeably cooler and thinner.
Highlight
Wide-open landscapes and steady altitude gain.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp (3,450 m) – Kikelewa Cave Camp (3,600 m)
This is a shorter trekking day designed to support acclimatization. The trail climbs gently toward Kikelewa Cave Camp, located in a sheltered valley at the base of Kibo. The reduced hiking time allows the body to recover while adapting to the increasing altitude.
Highlight
Rest-focused acclimatization and scenic valley setting.
Hiking time: 3–4 hours.
Day 4: Kikelewa Cave Camp (3,600 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m)
Ascend through alpine vegetation toward Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most beautiful campsites on Kilimanjaro. Nestled beneath the dramatic spires of Mawenzi Peak, this camp offers breathtaking scenery and a true high-altitude environment. Temperatures drop, and the landscape becomes more rugged.
Highlight
Spectacular Mawenzi Peak views and high-altitude camping.
Hiking time: 5–6 hours.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Cross the wide alpine desert known as the Saddle, which lies between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is dry, open, and otherworldly. Although the trail is not steep, the altitude makes the walk demanding. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the afternoon for rest, early dinner, and final summit preparations.
Highlight
Alpine desert experience and summit night readiness.
Hiking time: 6–7 hours.
Day 6: Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Gilman’s Point (5,685 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Marangu Gate
The summit attempt begins around midnight. Trek steadily up steep scree slopes to Gilman’s Point, then continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing down through Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate, where the climb officially ends.
Highlight
Summit success at Uhuru Peak and full mountain traverse.
Total time: 12–15 hours.
Best Time to Climb
Recommended seasons
January–March: Clear skies and quieter trails
June–October: Dry season with stable conditions
Rainy months: Rongai remains favorable due to lower rainfall
Why Choose the 6 Days Rongai Route
Peaceful trekking experience
Perfect for climbers seeking solitude and less traffic.
Reliable weather patterns
Northern approach avoids heavy rain zones.
Balanced challenge
Gradual ascent with rewarding summit success.
Tour Inclusions
✅ Accommodation as per itinerary
✅ Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✅ All ground transport & airport transfers
✅ Professional guide/driver & support crew
✅ Park, conservation, or trekking permits
✅ Scheduled activities and experiences
✅ First aid & safety support
✅ Equipment for camping or trekking (if included)
✅ Boats or ferries (if included)
✅ Beach & marine activity access (if included)
Tour Exclusions
❌ International flights
❌ Personal items & luggage
❌ Alcoholic & soft drinks (unless specified)
❌ Tips & gratuities for guides/staff
❌ Optional tours not listed in itinerary
❌ Travel/medical insurance
❌ Personal medical expenses
❌ Special equipment not mentioned (e.g., trekking poles, scuba gear)
Our Customer Reviews:
This 2-day safari was absolutely amazing! From the moment we were picked up in Arusha, everything was perfectly organized. Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the game drives unforgettable. We saw elephants, lions, buffalo, and even a rhino in Ngorongoro Crater! The lodges were comfortable, meals were delicious, and the private safari experience gave us complete flexibility. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a short but unforgettable Tanzanian adventure!
I booked this safari with my family and it exceeded all expectations. Tarangire and Ngorongoro are breathtaking, and our guide made every moment special. The private vehicle meant we could stop and take photos whenever we wanted. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and adventure. Definitely worth every dollar!
