The Rongai Route starts near the Kenyan border and ascends the northern slopes, passing Mawenzi Tarn before the summit from Kibo Hut. Descent is via the Marangu Route.
Max altitude5,895 m
Total distance73 km
Scenery
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
1,950 m → 2,625 m 8 km Pine forest / farmland
Gentle walk through forest to the first camp.
Day 2
Simba Camp to Second Cave
2,625 m → 3,450 m 6 km Moorland
Steady climb with views of Kibo.
Day 3
Second Cave to Kikelewa Camp
3,450 m → 3,600 m 6 km Moorland
Traverse towards Mawenzi.
Day 4
Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn
3,600 m → 4,330 m 6 km Alpine desert
Short steep climb to the tarn beneath Mawenzi.
Day 5
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
4,330 m → 4,700 m 9 km Alpine desert
Cross the Saddle to Kibo Hut.
Day 6
Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak, descend to Horombo Hut
4,700 m → 3,720 m (high point 5,895 m) 21 km Arctic to moorland
Summit via Gilman's Point and descent.
Day 7
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
3,720 m → 1,860 m 20 km Moorland to rainforest
Descend and transfer to Moshi.
Included
Kilimanjaro National Park fees (conservation, camping, rescue)