6 Days Rongai Route
Trip Overview
The 6 days Rongai Route is the only trail that approaches Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft / 5,895 m) from the north, near the Kenyan border, offering a quieter and more remote path to the summit. Beginning in dry woodland and gradually transitioning through moorlands and alpine desert, the route provides a steady and scenic ascent before joining the Marangu Route near Kibo for the final summit push. Early stages of the trek pass through areas known for their tranquility and occasional wildlife sightings.
Ideal for those seeking a direct and peaceful climb, the 6 days Rongai Route offers a consistent, moderate incline and fewer crowds than the popular southern approaches. While it has one fewer acclimatization day than the 7 days option, it still maintains the core advantage of gradual altitude gain and diverse landscapes that making it a rewarding choice for fit trekkers aiming to reach Uhuru Peak with fewer distractions and stunning views all along the way.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Your Kilimanjaro Adventure!
Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi, a peaceful town nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax at the hotel, explore the town, or enjoy some local cuisine. In the evening, meet your mountain guides and crew for a detailed trek briefing. Your gear will be checked, and any necessary rentals or final purchases can be arranged to ensure you’re fully prepared for your climb.
Day 1: Moshi – Rongai Gate (1,950 m) – Simba Camp (2,620 m)
After breakfast, depart Moshi for a 3–4 hour drive to the Rongai Gate, located on the northern side of the mountain near the Kenyan border. Once park registration is complete, begin your trek through a drier forest zone, with chances to spot colobus monkeys and forest antelope. The trail climbs gradually, leading to Simba Camp on the edge of the moorland zone, where you’ll settle in for your first night under the stars.
Distance: 8 km | Hiking Time: ~4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Simba Camp – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m)
Continue your steady ascent through open moorland and heather, enjoying sweeping views of Kilimanjaro’s summit and the surrounding wilderness. Pass Second Cave and continue upward to Kikelewa Camp, a small site nestled in a sheltered valley with stunning views of Mawenzi Peak.
Distance: 10 km | Hiking Time: ~5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m)
The trail becomes steeper as you ascend into alpine terrain. Hike up grassy slopes and rocky ridges, surrounded by dramatic scenery and jagged peaks. You’ll arrive at Mawenzi Tarn, located in a bowl beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. This is an excellent spot for acclimatization, with the afternoon free to rest or take a short acclimatization hike.
Distance: 5 km | Hiking Time: ~4–5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
Cross the barren saddle that connects Mawenzi and Kibo, a high-altitude desert with little vegetation but incredible views. The hike is long but gradual. Arrive at Kibo Hut in the early afternoon and spend the rest of the day resting, hydrating, and preparing for your summit attempt. After an early dinner, head to bed—you’ll begin your summit climb just after midnight.
Distance: 9 km | Hiking Time: ~5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Start your summit push around midnight. Hike slowly by headlamp up steep scree slopes to Gilman’s Point (5,685 m), where you’ll catch the sunrise. From there, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak—the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend carefully back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and lunch. Then continue further down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned night of sleep.
Distance: 21 km | Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Moshi
After breakfast, complete your final descent through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate. Along the way, enjoy the change in vegetation and possibly spot blue monkeys or tropical birds. At the gate, collect your summit certificate and say farewell to your mountain crew. A private vehicle will return you to Moshi, where a hot shower, warm meal, and celebration await.
Distance: 20 km | Hiking Time: ~5–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Price
| Number of People | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2000 USD |
| 2–4 People | $1900 USD |
| 5–9 People | $1750 USD |
| 10+ People | $1600 USD |
Price Includes
✅ 2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Moshi or Arusha (before and after the trek)
✅ Private airport transfers to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport
✅ Professional mountain guide and full support crew (rangers, porters, cook)
✅ All Mount Kilimanjaro Park fees, hut fees, and rescue charges
✅ 18% VAT on all applicable services
✅ Accommodation in mountain huts during the trek
✅ All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
✅ Fair wages for guides, porters, and cooking staff
✅ Daily health checks using a pulse oximeter
✅ First aid kit and basic medical support
✅ Katadyn-filtered drinking water throughout the climb
✅ Emergency evacuation procedures where necessary
Price Excludes
❌ International and domestic flight tickets
❌ Tanzania visa fees
❌ Travel and medical insurance
❌ Tips for guides, porters, and cook (optional but appreciated)
❌ Personal hiking gear (clothing, boots, backpacks, etc.)
❌ Laundry services at the hotel (available at extra cost)
