6 Day Rongai Route

6 Day Rongai Route – Kilimanjaro Climb Package

The 6 day Rongai Route is a quieter and less crowded way to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, approaching the summit from the north near the Kenyan border. This route is perfect for trekkers who want a more remote and gradual ascent, with scenic views of the foothills and wildlife along the way. Unlike the popular Marangu or Machame routes, Rongai offers a gentle climb with fewer hikers, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a more natural wilderness experience.

The 6-day itinerary allows extra time for acclimatization, increasing the chances of summit success while giving trekkers a comfortable pace. The route ascends through forest, moorland, and alpine desert before the final summit push to Uhuru Peak.

Hikers walking through a pine forest toward Mount Kilimanjaro.

At a Glance

  • Duration: 6 Days on the mountain

  • Route Type: Camping accommodation

  • Start Point: Rongai Gate

  • End Point: Marangu Gate

  • Difficulty: Moderate 

  • Scenery: Forests, moorland, alpine desert, and glacier views

  • Best For: Trekkers seeking a quieter route, better acclimatization, and moderate challenge

Detailed Itinerary – 6 Day Rongai Route

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Your trek begins at Rongai Gate at 1,950 meters. Hike through lush rainforest, crossing small streams and spotting wildlife like colobus monkeys and bushbucks. After 4–5 hours, reach Simba Camp at 2,700 meters, surrounded by beautiful views of the Kenyan plains.

  • Elevation Gain: 1,950m to 2,700m
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Habitat: Rainforest
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Simba Camp

    • Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

    Today you leave the forest behind and enter the moorland zone. The trail climbs steadily with stunning views of Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. After about 6 hours, arrive at Kikelewa Camp situated on a rocky plateau at 3,600 meters.

  • Elevation Gain: 2,700m to 3,600m
  • Distance: 10
  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Kikelewa Cave Camp

    • Day 3: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn

    The trail continues through moorland and alpine desert with stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers. Trek to Mawenzi Tarn Camp at 4,300m, a serene high-altitude campsite near the base of Mawenzi peak.

  • Elevation Gain: 3,600m to 4,300m
  • Distance: 7 km
  • Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

    • Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut

    Today’s trek leads you to Kibo Hut at 4,700m, the final camp before summit day. The landscape is stark and dramatic with spectacular panoramic views. Rest well and prepare for the challenging summit attempt starting after midnight.

  • Elevation Gain: 4,300m to 4,700m
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
  • Habitat: Alpine desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Kibo Hut

    • Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Horombo Hut

    Begin your summit climb just after midnight. Ascend steeply through the night to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) and then to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. After summiting, descend to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for an overnight rest.

  • Elevation Gain: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru)
  • Distance: 21 km total
  • Hiking Time: 12–15 hours
  • Habitat: Desert
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Overnight: Horombo Hut

    • Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate

    Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,870m), where you will sign out and receive your summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel or Arusha.

  • Elevation Loss: 3,720m to 1,870m
  • Distance: 20 km
  • Hiking Time: 5–7 hours
  • Habitat: Moorland, Rainforest
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    • What's Included

    • Kilimanjaro National Park entry fees

    • Camping accommodation and all camping equipment

    • Professional mountain guides, porters, and cook

    • All meals on the mountain

    • Drinking water and hot drinks

    • Rescue fees

    • Oxygen cylinder and first-aid kit

    • Pre- and post-trek briefing

    • Transportation to Rongai Gate and from Marangu Gate

    • Summit certificate (gold for Uhuru, green for Gilman’s Point)

    What's Not Included

    • Flights and visas

    • Travel insurance

    • Tips for guides and porters

    • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, boots, etc.)

    • Accommodation before and after the trek (can be added on request)

    • Extra snacks and beverages

    • Portable toilets (available at extra cost)

    FAQs – 6 Day Rongai Route

    Is the 6 day Rongai Route good for acclimatization?
    Yes. Although not as long as the 7-day version, the Rongai Route offers a gradual ascent profile starting from the northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro. The steady climb over several days allows your body to adjust to higher altitudes more comfortably, improving your chances of reaching the summit successfully.
    How difficult is this climb?
    The route is considered moderately difficult. Most days involve steady, non-technical trekking, but summit day is particularly demanding due to the steep ascent from Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, followed by a long descent to Horombo Hut. Good stamina and mental preparation are important.
    Can beginners do this route?
    Yes, the Rongai Route is one of the more beginner-friendly Kilimanjaro routes. With proper pre-trip training, especially on endurance and hill walking, beginners can successfully complete this trek.
    What kind of accommodation is used?
    All nights are spent in high-quality mountain tents provided by your trekking team. These include comfortable sleeping mats, and porters will set up and take down camp for you. Communal dining tents are used for meals, and crew members ensure a warm and supportive environment.
    Is altitude sickness common?
    It can occur on any Kilimanjaro route, but the gradual incline of the Rongai Route helps reduce the risk. Your guide will monitor your health daily, and drinking plenty of water, walking slowly, and eating well can further minimize symptoms.
    What gear do I need?
    Essential items include:
  • Warm layers for cold nights
  • Waterproof outerwear (jacket and pants)
  • Sturdy trekking boots
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented)
  • Trekking poles (recommended)
  • water bottles
  • snacks
  • altitude medication (consult your doctor).
    • We also offer gear rentals for items like sleeping bags and walking poles.
    When is the best time to trek?
    The best months for the Rongai Route are January to March and June to October, when the weather is generally dry, skies are clearer, and trails are more comfortable underfoot.
    Are toilets available on the route?
    There are basic toilet facilities at the main campsites, though they are very simple. Many trekkers choose to rent a private portable toilet for added comfort and hygiene during the trek.
    Can I rent trekking gear locally?
    Yes, Arusha and Moshi have several reputable outfitters offering rental gear, including jackets, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and gaiters. This is a convenient option for those traveling light.
    How fit should I be?
    A moderate fitness level is required. You should be comfortable walking for 5–7 hours a day on uneven terrain while carrying a small daypack. Pre-trek training should focus on hiking, cardiovascular exercises, and leg strengthening to prepare for summit day’s challenge.

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