Overview
The wild northern approach
The Rongai Route is the only trail to approach Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It is the quietest and driest route, crossing true wilderness with a good chance of spotting wildlife in the lower forest. This 8-day itinerary uses gentle gradients and a Mawenzi Tarn acclimatisation day to build up to the summit of Uhuru Peak (5,895m), descending via the Marangu Route for a full traverse of the mountain.
Day by Day
Your 8-day Rongai Route itinerary
Arrive in Moshi
Arrive in Moshi for a pre-climb briefing and equipment check. Overnight at a hotel (bed & breakfast).
Rongai Gate to Simba Camp (2,625m)
Drive around to the northern Rongai Gate and trek through farmland and forest to Simba Camp (2,625m). Dinner and overnight.
Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)
A steady climb through moorland with fine views towards Kenya to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m). Dinner and overnight.
Kikelewa to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m)
A short, steep climb to the beautiful Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330m), set beneath the jagged Mawenzi peak. Dinner and overnight.
Acclimatisation day at Mawenzi Tarn
An acclimatisation day exploring the slopes of Mawenzi, returning to sleep at the tarn. All meals and overnight.
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Cross the lunar “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo to Kibo Hut (4,700m). Rest early for the summit push.
Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895m) & descend to Horombo
A midnight start via Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) for sunrise, then descend the Marangu Route to Horombo Hut (3,720m).
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate & Moshi
Final descent to the Marangu Gate, collect your summit certificate, and transfer to Moshi.
What to expect
What’s included & excluded
Included
- Transfers between Moshi and the park gate
- Professional mountain guide, cook and porters
- Kilimanjaro National Park, camping/hut & rescue fees
- Full-board meals while on the mountain
- Mountain huts or tented camping as per the route
- One night’s hotel in Moshi before the climb (B&B)
- Drinking water on the trek
Not included
- International flights, visa & travel insurance
- Personal climbing gear & sleeping bag (hire available)
- Tips for your mountain guide, cook and porters
- Personal items, snacks & extra drinks
- Anything not listed under “Included”
Why book with us
Why travellers choose Nairobi Tour Promoters
Mountain experts
A Nairobi-based team guiding Mount Kenya & Kilimanjaro climbs for years.
Safe, strong crew
Experienced guides, cooks & porters focused on your health and a safe summit.
All-inclusive pricing
Park, hut & camping fees, meals and crew included — no hidden costs.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How high is Kilimanjaro and what is the summit?
Kilimanjaro’s summit is Uhuru Peak at 5,895m — the highest point in Africa and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. It is a non-technical walk-up, but the altitude makes it a serious challenge.
What makes the Rongai Route special?
Rongai is the only route approaching Kilimanjaro from the north. It is the driest and quietest trail, crosses remote wilderness, and its gentle gradients plus a Mawenzi Tarn acclimatisation day make for a comfortable, high-success climb.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The best months are January to mid-March and June to October, which are drier with clearer summit conditions. Kilimanjaro can be climbed year-round, but the long rains of April–May are best avoided.