The 7-Day Rongai Route offers one of the quietest and most scenic approaches to Mount Kilimanjaro, coming from the north near the Kenyan border. With sparse crowds, expansive views, and varied landscapes, this route is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil climb. Unlike the southern routes, Rongai passes through remote wilderness areas, offering the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas as you ascend toward the peak.
This 7-day version provides the added benefit of a crucial acclimatization day, significantly improving summit success rates. The extra day allows the body to adjust gradually to higher altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and making the trek more comfortable. The route ascends through moorlands and alpine desert to the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo, then summits via Gilman’s Point before reaching Uhuru Peak. Descent is via the lush Marangu Route, offering a circular traverse of the mountain.
With its unique blend of remoteness, diverse ecosystems, and excellent acclimatization opportunities, the Rongai Route is a top choice for trekkers seeking a quieter and rewarding path to the Roof of Africa. The combination of gentle gradients, scenic campsites, and dramatic summit views makes it suitable for both first-time and seasoned climbers.
Can start any day
7 Days
Challenging
Private Tour
Customizable
Itinerary
Toyota Hiace
Minivans / Bus
Breakfast, Lunch
& Dinner
Kilimanjaro Int.
Airport
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our friendly team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi, the gateway to Kilimanjaro. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a detailed climb briefing and gear check. Use this time to rest, hydrate, and prepare for your adventure. Overnight stay in Moshi.
Tulivu has always been in our hearts, even though opening a boutique hotel wasn’t something we initially envisioned. Our passion for hosting family and friends, creating unforgettable experiences, and sharing fine dining brought us so much joy over the years. Eventually, we realized this warmth and hospitality could be shared with others. That’s when the idea for Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat and Campsite was born.
Altitude: 1,950m to 2,600m
Distance: 8 km | Time: 4–5 hours
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Rongai Gate on the northeastern slopes of Kilimanjaro, near the Kenyan border. The trek begins through a cultivated area and then enters a forested zone home to wildlife like colobus monkeys. The path is gentle, winding steadily through woodland to Simba Camp, located at the edge of the moorland zone. You’ll enjoy the quiet of the northern side and get your first glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak. Dinner and overnight at Simba Camp under a clear, starry sky.
Altitude: 2,600m to 3,450m
Distance: 9 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Today’s trail gradually ascends through open moorland with expansive views of Kibo and the eastern ice fields. The vegetation changes to heather and volcanic rock as the air grows cooler and thinner. By early afternoon, you’ll reach Second Cave Camp, a scenic site nestled near a lava tube. After lunch, rest and enjoy a short acclimatization walk around the camp area. This slow, steady pace supports your adjustment to altitude. Dinner is served early, and you’ll settle in for a restful night.
Altitude: 3,450m to 3,630m
Distance: 6 km | Time: 3–4 hours
You’ll trek southeast toward Mawenzi Peak, gaining gradual elevation through alpine terrain and increasingly rugged scenery. The short distance and manageable incline make this a relatively easy acclimatization day. The trail crosses moorland slopes with sparse vegetation and passes giant groundsels and lobelias. You’ll reach Kikelewa Camp, tucked into a sheltered valley, by early afternoon. The camp offers scenic views of the surrounding peaks and dramatic skies. Take time to rest, explore, or journal before dinner and a well-earned sleep.
Altitude: 3,630m to 4,330m
Distance: 7 km | Time: 4–5 hours
Today’s hike is steeper and leads into high alpine desert. The trail ascends rugged slopes toward the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak. As you climb, the landscape opens up dramatically with panoramic views of the mountain and plains below. You’ll arrive at Mawenzi Tarn Camp in the early afternoon, a breathtaking site nestled beneath towering cliffs and beside a glacial tarn. After lunch, an acclimatization hike is optional but recommended. This is one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic and serene campsites.
Altitude: 4,330m
Distance: 2–4 km (optional hike) | Time: 2–3 hours
This extra day is crucial for acclimatization and greatly improves your chances of a successful summit. After breakfast, you’ll embark on a short hike to higher altitudes, then return to Mawenzi Tarn for lunch and rest. This hike follows the principle of “climb high, sleep low,” which helps your body adapt to the altitude. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, gear prep, and soaking in the spectacular views. Enjoy a hearty dinner and an early night before the push to base camp.
Altitude: 4,330m to 4,700m
Distance: 8 km | Time: 5–6 hours
Today, you’ll cross the vast, barren Saddle—a high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo. The trek is gradual but long, and you’ll feel the elevation. You’ll arrive at Kibo Hut, base camp for the summit attempt, by mid-afternoon. After lunch and rest, your guide will review the summit strategy. Eat an early dinner and go to bed early—you’ll wake around midnight to begin your ascent to Uhuru Peak. Rest well and mentally prepare for your biggest challenge tomorrow.
Altitude: 4,700m to 5,895m (Uhuru Peak), then down to 3,720m
Distance: 22 km | Time: 12–14 hours
Your summit push begins just after midnight. Slowly ascend switchbacks in the cold darkness, reaching Gilman’s Point (5,681m) around sunrise. The final stretch along the crater rim leads to Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa. Celebrate, take photos, and soak in the moment. Begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for rest and lunch, then continue down to Horombo Hut for a much-deserved sleep. This is the most physically demanding but rewarding day of your trek.
Tulivu has always been in our hearts, even though opening a boutique hotel wasn’t something we initially envisioned. Our passion for hosting family and friends, creating unforgettable experiences, and sharing fine dining brought us so much joy over the years. Eventually, we realized this warmth and hospitality could be shared with others. That’s when the idea for Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat and Campsite was born.
Private Toilet – $150 per trip
Enjoy added privacy and comfort with a personal portable toilet for your group.
Private Tent – $5 per day
Perfect for solo climbers or those who prefer not to share sleeping space.
Kailas X3 III Alpine Tent with Vestibule – $10 per day
A high-performance alpine tent offering extra space and weather protection. (Click here for specifications)
Thicker Sleeping Mattress – $10 per mattress
Upgrade to a thicker foam mattress for improved sleep and insulation.
Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pad – $15 per pad
A premium self-inflating pad for maximum comfort and warmth on the mountain.
