8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027. The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, Rongai has low traffic. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the crowded Marangu route, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season
The minimum number of days required for this route is 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027, and seven days are recommended. Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu route at Kibo camp. This route descends down the Marangu route. Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.
Day by Day 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027 Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha to Rongai Gate (2,020m) to Simba Camp (2,625m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Elevation Gain: +605m
Time: 4-6 hours
Route: After a scenic drive to the Rongai Gate for registration, begin your trek through farmlands and pine forest.
Highlights: Beautiful wilderness and the possibility of wildlife sightings.
Accommodation: Simba Camp (tents).
Meals: Lunch, dinner.
Day 2: Simba Camp (2,625m) to Second Cave (3,450m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Elevation Gain: +825m
Time: 5-7 hours
Route: The trail ascends gradually through heather and moorland, offering impressive views of Kibo Peak.
Highlights: Expansive views and a quiet environment.
Accommodation: Second Cave (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 3: Second Cave (3,450m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,630m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Elevation Gain: +180m
Time: 3-4 hours
Route: A shorter trek with gradual elevation gain, surrounded by stunning moorland landscapes.
Highlights: Close views of Mawenzi Peak and surrounding terrain.
Accommodation: Kikelewa Camp (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp (3,630m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles)
Elevation Gain: +685m
Time: 4-5 hours
Route: The trail becomes steeper as you climb towards Mawenzi Tarn, set beneath the rugged peaks of Mawenzi.
Highlights: Dramatic alpine views and a serene campsite by a glacial tarn.
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Activities:
Optional acclimatization hikes to higher altitudes around Mawenzi Peak, followed by rest at the camp.
Relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Highlights: Increased acclimatization to enhance your chances of reaching the summit.
Accommodation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m) to Kibo Hut (4,720m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
Elevation Gain: +405m
Time: 5-6 hours
Route: Trek across the “Saddle,” a barren, moon-like desert that links Mawenzi and Kibo Peaks.
Highlights: The stark beauty of the alpine desert and the anticipation of the summit climb.
Accommodation: Kibo Hut (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 7: Kibo Hut (4,720m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,175m/-2,175m
Time: 12-16 hours
Route:
Summit Attempt: Begin at midnight for the final ascent to Gilman’s Point (5,685m) and then Uhuru Peak, the roof of Africa.
Descend to Kibo Hut for a brief rest before continuing to Horombo Hut.
Highlights: Reaching the summit at sunrise with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and the African plains.
Accommodation: Horombo Hut (tents).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 8: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,860m), 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
Distance: 20 km (12.4 miles)
Elevation Loss: -1,860m
Time: 5-7 hours
Route: A long but enjoyable descent through lush rainforest to Marangu Gate.
Highlights: Collect your summit certificate and celebrate your incredible achievement.
Transfer: Return to Moshi or Arusha.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch.
Why Choose the 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027?
Extra Acclimatization Day: Increases summit success rates and reduces altitude sickness risk.
Quiet Experience: One of Kilimanjaro’s least crowded routes, offering solitude and unique views.
Diverse Landscapes: Enjoy transitions from farmland and rainforest to alpine desert and glacier fields.
Best Times to Climb Kilimanjaro
January to mid-March: Cooler with possible snow at higher altitudes.
June to October: Dry season with clear skies and milder conditions.
Includes: 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking Wilderness First Responder & CPR certified Guide
- Proper Ration of Mountain crew (Cook & Porters)
- Pre and Post accommodations (2 nights Bed and Breakfast)
- Airport Transfers
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water and Full Board Meals
- All National Park & Hut Fees, Crew Permits and VAT
- Fair and Sustainable Salary Crew Wages
- Gate Transfers
- Complimentary Oxygen Cylinder
- Quality Imported Equipments
Excludes: 8-days Rongai route 2025/ 2026/2027
- Flights
- Visa fees
- Travel or Medical Insurance is required and you should ask for Recommendation
- Gamow Bag
- Medication
- Tips for porters and mountain crew (20% Industry Standard Recommended)
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Energy food & beverages, alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal hire gear such as trekking poles, sleeping bags, etc.
- Additional lodge nights if early descent from the mountain $150 per room