Day 1: Arrival day
Day 2–8: To be spent on the mountain
Day 9: Departure day
About Rongai Route:
The Rongai Route is the only Kilimanjaro route that approaches the mountain from the northern side, close to the Kenyan border. It is known for its quieter trails, remote wilderness, and gradual ascent, making it a suitable choice for trekkers who prefer a peaceful experience away from the busier routes. Along the way, you will enjoy views of Kibo and Mawenzi, open moorlands, and the unique landscapes of Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes. The route is available in 6-day and 7-day itineraries. The 6-day option is more suitable for experienced trekkers who are comfortable with a faster pace and longer trekking days, while the 7-day itinerary is recommended for those who prefer a more gradual climb with additional time for acclimatization before the summit attempt.
The trek begins at Nalemuru Gate, approximately 3–4 hrs from Moshi, and continues through the remote northern side of the mountain before joining the Marangu Route near Kibo. After reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the descent follows the Marangu side, allowing you to experience two different sides of Kilimanjaro. Although the scenery is generally less varied than on some western routes, Rongai offers several days of peaceful wilderness trekking and impressive mountain views. With its moderate difficulty, low traffic, gradual ascent, and flexible 6- or 7-day options, the Rongai Route provides a memorable Kilimanjaro experience for both experienced hikers and trekkers who prefer a more comfortable pace.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. Later, you will meet your mountain guide for a detailed briefing about the upcoming trek, followed by an equipment check to ensure you have all the essential gear. Any missing equipment can be rented before the climb.
In the evening, you will enjoy dinner and relax at the hotel as you prepare for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Overnight at your hotel in Moshi.
After breakfast, you will drive to Nale Moru Village, the starting point of the Rongai Route. The trek begins through cultivated farmland and beautiful pine forests, where you may have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as Colobus monkeys and, with some luck, elephants or buffaloes. The trail gradually ascends toward Simba Camp (2,625 m), located at the edge of the moorland zone, where you will have dinner and spend the night.
Distance: 8 km / 5 mi | Hiking time: 4–5 hrs
Today, you will continue with a steady climb through the changing landscape toward Second Cave Camp (3,480 m). As you gain altitude, the vegetation becomes more open and you enter the moorland zone. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of Kibo Peak and the Eastern Ice Fields along the crater rim. After reaching camp, you will have time to rest and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery.
Distance: 5 km / 3.1 mi | Hiking time: 3–4 hrs
After breakfast, you will leave the main trail and continue through the open moorland toward Kikelewa Camp. The route offers beautiful views of Kibo and its Eastern Ice Fields as you approach the rugged slopes of Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s three volcanic cones. The trail becomes quieter as you follow a smaller path toward the sheltered valley near Kikelewa Caves, where you will set up camp for the night.
Distance: 5 km / 3.1 mi | Hiking time: 3–4 hrs
After breakfast, you will leave Kikelewa Camp and begin a relatively short but steep climb across grassy slopes toward Mawenzi Tarn Hut. As you gain altitude, the vegetation gradually becomes sparse, while beautiful views open across the Kenyan plains. The trail eventually leads to the impressive Mawenzi area, where the camp is situated beneath the dramatic cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The afternoon will be reserved for relaxation or a short walk around the area to support acclimatization.
Distance: 8 km / 5 mi | Hiking time: 4–5 hrs
Today, you will cross the vast Saddle, the high-altitude desert lying between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. The landscape becomes increasingly barren as you make your way across this impressive lunar-like terrain toward Kibo Hut. Along the way, you will have excellent views of Kilimanjaro’s main summit and the route ahead. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you will have lunch and spend the rest of the day resting and preparing for the final summit climb. An early dinner and early bedtime will be arranged before the midnight start.
Distance: 8 km / 5 mi | Hiking time: 5–6 hrs
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of your Kilimanjaro trek. You will wake around midnight and begin the steep ascent toward the summit. The trail passes Hans Meyer Cave (5,220 m) before continuing upward to Gilman’s Point (5,681 m) on the crater rim, where you may arrive around sunrise. From there, you will continue along the crater rim for approximately 1–2 hrs to reach Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), the highest point in Africa. After celebrating at the summit and taking photos, you will descend to Kibo Hut for a warm meal and a short rest before continuing down to Horombo Hut, where you will spend the night.
Distance: 22 km / 13.7 mi | Hiking time: 12–15 hrs
After breakfast, you will begin your final descent through the heath and moorland toward Mandara Hut (2,700 m), where you will stop for lunch and a short break. The trail then continues downhill through the lush tropical rainforest until you reach Marangu Gate (1,860 m). After completing the final park formalities and saying goodbye to your mountain crew, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Moshi. Take time to enjoy a hot shower, relax, and celebrate the successful completion of your Kilimanjaro climb.
Distance: 20.8 km / 12.9 mi | Hiking time: 8 hrs
After completing your Kilimanjaro adventure, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, according to your travel arrangements.
If you wish to extend your stay in Tanzania, we can arrange a cultural experience, a relaxing Zanzibar beach getaway, or an exciting wildlife safari. You can explore iconic destinations such as Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, or Serengeti National Park.
Novella Safaris has been running Tanzanian journeys. Our licensed guides, modern 4×4 Land Cruisers, and 24/7 in-country support make us the trusted choice for over 4,800 travellers to date. Group size is capped so every guest gets personal attention.
All in-destination transport is included: airport pickup, park drives in custom 4×4 vehicles, inter-park transfers. International and domestic flights are not included.
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency. USD is widely accepted at parks, lodges and shops. ATMs are available in Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar and major hubs. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AMEX and bank wire.
Clothing: Layered, muted colours; light hiking pants, breathable shirts, warm fleece and waterproof shell.
Footwear: Broken-in walking shoes, sandals, warm socks.
Essentials: Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, insect repellent, small day pack, binoculars, camera with spare batteries, headlamp.
Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), visa, travel insurance, printed itinerary copies.
First-aid: Personal medication, ibuprofen, malaria prophylaxis, plasters, oral rehydration salts.
Departure: Novella Safaris office, Moshi, Tanzania.
Pickup available from: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Arusha Airport (ARK), Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
Tipping is customary and appreciated. Guideline: USD 15 per day for driver-guides, USD 10 per day for cooks, USD 5 per day for camp staff. Tips are paid at the end of the trip.
Send us an enquiry — a Tanzania-based trip designer will reply within 24 hours with a tailored proposal, no obligation.
Deposit: 20% at reservation to confirm your booking.
Balance: Due 60 days before departure.
Accepted methods: Visa · Mastercard · AMEX · bank wire.
Documents required: Signed booking form, passport with 6+ months validity, valid visa, travel insurance.
30+ days before departure: 20% of the total trip cost retained.
14–29 days before departure: 50% retained.
Less than 14 days: 100% retained.
If you find a replacement 14+ days before departure, no cancellation fee applies.