Last updated on August 22nd, 2025 at 01:08 pm
When most people imagine climbing Kilimanjaro, they picture long lines of trekkers, busy camps, and crowded trails. But there is another way to climb Africa’s highest mountain a route far from the crowds, where silence surrounds you and nature speaks in every step. This is the Rongai Route, Kilimanjaro’s only northern approach.
In this blog, we will walk you through the day-by-day itinerary for the Rongai Route, showing you exactly what each day on this beautiful trail feels like.
Before the Trek: Arrival and Getting Ready
Every Kilimanjaro Climbing Tour starts before you even set foot on the trail. Our staff will be waiting for you when you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. We will then transfer you to your hotel in Moshi.
You will meet with your main guide later that day. This briefing is crucial. This briefing is crucial. We will review your gear, walk through the route, and ensure you are fully prepared.We’ll take care of renting or changing any equipment you need immediately.
Once everything is set up, you can rest. The next morning, your Rongai Route Trek officially begins.
Day 1: Into Kilimanjaro’s Quiet Forest
Early in the morning, you drive to the Rongai Gate, sitting near the Kenyan border. Unlike other Kilimanjaro trails, this one begins in dry forest, with fewer people and a stronger sense of wilderness.
The trail starts gently. You hear birds calling in the trees and might even spot black-and-white colobus monkeys swinging above. As the hours pass, the rainforest opens into heather and moorland. The views stretch far across the Kenyan plains.
- Short 2-3 hour drive to Rongai Gate.
- Gentle trek through forest and heather zones.
- Possible monkey and bird sightings.
- Overnight at Simba Camp (2,600 meters).
By evening, you will rest at Simba Camp, already feeling the fresh mountain air.
Day 2: Walking into the Moorland
As you leave the forest behind, the wide, open landscape of the moorland takes over. The trail rises slowly, letting you adjust to the higher Kilimanjaro Altitude. Today, you’ll see Mawenzi Peak in the distance, its sharp spires pointing toward the sky.
You stop for lunch near Second Cave — a natural resting point on the trail — before continuing across the open moorland toward your next campsite.
- Walk across open moorland with clear mountain views.
- Picnic lunch near Second Cave.
- Gradual climb to Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters).
- Stunning sunset views under Mawenzi Peak.
At Kikelewa Camp, you feel even closer to the mountain’s heart. The peace here is worth visiting.
Day 3: The Steep Push to Mawenzi Tarn
This morning, the climb grows steeper as you head towards one of the most beautiful Kilimanjaro Camps. The path winds upward, but with each step, the views become more dramatic.
Suddenly, the ground flattens, and you arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, sitting beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. The reflection of the mountain in the tarn (small lake) adds to the beauty.
- Steeper climb to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 meters).
- Surrounded by dramatic volcanic scenery.
- Afternoon rest for better acclimatisation.
- One of the most scenic camps on Kilimanjaro.
By afternoon, you’ll settle in and let your body adjust to the thinner air. Hydration becomes even more important here.
Day 4: A Day to Acclimatize
Altitude is often what makes Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing so challenging. To help your body adapt, you stay a second night at Mawenzi Tarn.
This is not a full rest day. Instead, you take short acclimatisation hikes up the nearby ridges. These walks are slow, steady, and important for your summit success. The rule here is simple: climb high, sleep low.
- Light hikes around Mawenzi ridges for altitude adjustment.
- Learn how your body responds to the higher elevation.
- Warm meals and plenty of fluids to help your system adjust.
- Relax and enjoy the views of both Mawenzi and Kibo.
This acclimatization day is one reason why many see the Rongai Route as one of the safest Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes for summit success.
Day 5: Crossing the Saddle to Kibo Huts
Today, you cross the wide, empty landscape known as The Saddle, a barren stretch between Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks. It feels like walking on another planet. The wind can blow strongly here, and the silence is deep.
As you approach Kibo Huts , the summit cone of Kilimanjaro looms above you. The excitement grows. Tonight, you sleep early, because summit day starts long before sunrise.
- Cross the Saddle’s wide alpine desert.
- Arrive at Kibo Huts (4,700 meters).
- Early dinner followed by full summit briefing.
- Sleep early in preparation for summit night.
The energy at camp is quiet but electric as everyone prepares for the big climb ahead.
Day 6: The Summit Push to Uhuru Peak
Around midnight, you wake, dress warmly, and step into the darkness. Headlamps light the steep trail ahead as you begin your final climb to the top of Africa.
The route is tough. The air is thin. The climb is slow. But as dawn breaks, you reach Gilman’s Point and then Stella Point, both high spots along the crater rim.
Finally, after hours of determination, you will arrive at Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) — the roof of Africa. You take photos, breathe the thin air, and celebrate the achievement.
- Midnight start toward the summit.
- Reach Gilman’s Point and Stella Point.
- Sunrise at Uhuru Peak.
- Celebrate your successful climb of Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route.
- Long descent back to Kibo Huts and then Horombo Huts for the night.
This is the hardest but most emotional day of the entire 7 Days Rongai Route journey.
Day 7: The Final Descent
Your last day on Kilimanjaro is much easier. The trail now drops quickly through moorland and then back into the rainforest. The thick air feels wonderful again, and soon the songs of birds welcome you as you descend.
- Trek down to Marangu Gate.
- Check out and receive your climbing certificate.
- Private transfer back to your hotel.
Your adventure on Kilimanjaro’s quieter northern side has come to a successful end.
Why Many Climbers Choose the Rongai Route
Among all Kilimanjaro Climbing Packages, the Rongai Route remains a favourite for several reasons:
- Less crowded than the busy southern routes.
- Drier weather on the northern side.
- Gentle, steady ascent that improves acclimatization.
- Unique scenery with views of both Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks.
- Higher success rate due to better acclimatization days.
For many, it offers a more personal and peaceful Kilimanjaro Climbing Experience.
Your Quiet Path to Kilimanjaro’s Summit!
You’ve already seen what each day on the Rongai Route looks like, from the tranquil forest start to the summit push under the stars. This detailed look should help you understand what it’s like to climb Kilimanjaro with African Scenic Safaris.
Every step on this path is meticulously planned, not only to bring you to the summit but also to ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience at your own pace. So, this time when you’re climbing Kilimanjaro with African Scenic Safaris, remember, you’re entrusting a team to handle every detail while you enjoy the journey.
Let’s start your climb with one day at a time, to Africa’s highest peak.
