Kilimanjaro route guide
A quieter northern approach with views towards Kenya.
The route
Rongai begins near the Kenyan border on Kilimanjaro’s drier northern side. The trail is quieter than the popular southern routes and approaches Mawenzi before joining the Marangu summit path. Descent is via Marangu, so you see two sides of the mountain.
Edward’s adviceA strong choice for quieter trails and drier conditions. Seven days improves acclimatisation.
Day by day
After the transfer and park formalities, walk gently through the northern forest. For day 1 of the 7-day Rongai Route, the park formalities and team briefing are completed before the walking starts. Edward introduces the terrain ahead on Hotel pickup to Rongai Gate to Simba Camp and uses the opening kilometres to find a comfortable group pace.
A steady moorland climb offers views over the Kenyan plains. The terrain on day 2 of the 7-day Rongai Route determines where the group pauses and how Edward divides the walking time. On arrival after Simba Camp to Second Cave, the crew serves a warm meal while the guide reviews that day’s altitude response and the next morning’s plan.
Continue towards Mawenzi through an increasingly wild, open landscape. The terrain on day 3 of the 7-day Rongai Route determines where the group pauses and how Edward divides the walking time. On arrival after Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp, the crew serves a warm meal while the guide reviews that day’s altitude response and the next morning’s plan.
Climb to the tarn and take an optional acclimatisation walk in the afternoon. The terrain on day 4 of the 7-day Rongai Route determines where the group pauses and how Edward divides the walking time. On arrival after Kikelewa to Mawenzi Tarn, the crew serves a warm meal while the guide reviews that day’s altitude response and the next morning’s plan.
Cross the high Saddle and prepare equipment for the summit attempt. The terrain on day 5 of the 7-day Rongai Route determines where the group pauses and how Edward divides the walking time. On arrival after Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut, the crew serves a warm meal while the guide reviews that day’s altitude response and the next morning’s plan.
Summit via Gilman’s Point, celebrate at Uhuru Peak and descend to Horombo. Before day 6 of the 7-day Rongai Route begins, Edward checks the clothing, water and headlamps needed for the night ascent. The rhythm and rest stops on this Rongai Route summit stage are adjusted to the group rather than fixed to a race against the clock.
Complete the final forest descent and return to your hotel. For day 7 of the 7-day Rongai Route, the park formalities and team briefing are completed before the walking starts. Edward introduces the terrain ahead on Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate and uses the opening kilometres to find a comfortable group pace.
Walking times are estimates. Weather, trail conditions and the group’s safe pace can change the daily schedule.
Final route prices
Every listed amount is a final price per person in your selected currency for the stated route duration and group size. The inclusions and exclusions are listed directly below the table.
What’s included
What’s not included
Airport transfers
Pickup$50 per car
Drop-off$50 per car
Pickup$25 per car
Drop-off$25 per car
Rental equipment
Sleeping bag$35
Sleeping mattress$10
Duffle bag$30
Small backpack$25
Walking poles · pair$10
Warm hat$5
Sun hat$5
Sunglasses$10
Down jacket$20
Summit trousers$20
Hiking boots$30
Gloves · pair$5
Gaiters · pair$10
Trekking trousers$15
Rain jacket$10
Rain trousers$15
Poncho$25
Sweater$10
Leggings$10
Long-sleeve top$10
Ready when you are
Share your preferred dates, group size and itinerary length. Edward will prepare a clear personal quote.
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