6-days Kilimanjaro trek Rongai is the best choice for trekkers seeking a quieter, scenic, and less crowded climb to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Unlike other Kilimanjaro routes, Rongai approaches the mountain from the northern side, near the Kenyan border, offering drier weather, breathtaking landscapes, and excellent wildlife spotting in the early days of the trek. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure is ideal for those who prefer a gradual ascent with fewer crowds and a higher summit success rate.
Why Choose the 6-days Kilimanjaro trek Rongai?
Less crowded, offering a remote and peaceful trek
Best for climbers who prefer a gradual ascent with fewer steep sections
Drier conditions, making it ideal for trekking during the rainy season
Great for wildlife spotting, especially in the lower rainforest zone
High success rate, with a steady climb allowing for better acclimatization
Detailed 6-days Kilimanjaro trek Rongai Itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Gate (1,950m) to Simba Camp (2,600m) – Rainforest Zone
Your adventure begins with a pickup from Moshi or Arusha, followed by a scenic drive to Rongai Gate, near the Kenyan border. After park registration, the trek begins through the lush rainforest, where you may spot colobus monkeys, antelopes, and elephants. The trail gradually ascends to Simba Camp, offering stunning views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park in the distance.
Hiking distance: 8 km
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: 650m
Day 2: Simba Camp (2,600m) to Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) – Moorland Zone
Leave the rainforest behind and enter the heath and moorland zone, where the landscape opens up to rolling hills, volcanic formations, and towering heathers. The trek offers spectacular views of Mawenzi Peak, one of Kilimanjaro’s dramatic volcanic cones. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp, where you will rest and prepare for the next stage of the climb.
Hiking distance: 9 km
Hiking time: 6-7 hours
Elevation gain: 1,000m
Day 3: Kikelewa Camp (3,600m) to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m) – Acclimatization Day
This is an important acclimatization day, as you climb towards Mawenzi Tarn Camp, located at the base of Mawenzi Peak. The trail becomes steeper and rockier, offering incredible panoramic views of Kibo Peak. Upon arrival at Mawenzi Tarn Camp, enjoy the crystal-clear glacial lake and towering cliffs surrounding the campsite.
Hiking distance: 6 km
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: 715m
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,315m) to Kibo Hut (4,703m) – Alpine Desert Zone
The trek continues across the Saddle, a barren stretch of alpine desert connecting Mawenzi Peak and Kibo Peak. The landscape is harsh but breathtaking, with volcanic ash, rock formations, and distant glacier views. Arrive at Kibo Hut, the final base camp before the summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest in preparation for the midnight climb to the summit.
Hiking distance: 9 km
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: 388m
Day 5: Summit Day – Kibo Hut (4,703m) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
The most challenging and rewarding day begins just after midnight. Trek slowly and steadily through steep switchbacks, navigating the freezing conditions under the light of your headlamp. After reaching Gilman’s Point (5,685m), take in the stunning sunrise over the glaciers, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa.
After celebrating and taking photos at the summit, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short rest before continuing to Horombo Hut (3,720m) for the night.
Hiking distance: 21 km
Hiking time: 12-14 hours
Elevation gain: 1,192m (then descend 2,175m)
Day 6: Horombo Hut (3,720m) to Marangu Gate (1,879m), Return to Moshi/Arusha
The final descent takes you back through the moorland and rainforest zones, where you may spot blue monkeys and exotic bird species. Arriving at Marangu Gate, you will receive your Kilimanjaro summit certificate before driving back to Moshi or Arusha, marking the end of your unforgettable Kilimanjaro adventure.
Hiking distance: 20 km
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation loss: 1,841m
Why Trek Kilimanjaro via the 6-days Kilimanjaro trek Rongai ?
✔ Best for trekkers who prefer a quieter, less crowded route
✔ More gradual ascent, making it ideal for acclimatization
✔ Drier conditions, perfect for climbing during the rainy season
✔ Incredible views of Kenya’s Amboseli National Park
✔ Great chance to spot wildlife in the lower rainforest
✔ High summit success rate, thanks to its steady and gradual climb
This 6-day Rongai Route trek for 2025/2026 is the perfect adventure for those who want a scenic, gradual, and rewarding climb to Uhuru Peak. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-time trekker, this less crowded, well-paced, and breathtaking route offers the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime Kilimanjaro experience.
Package Inclusion & Exclusions
Inclusion, 6-days Kilimanjaro trek Rongai
Guide, Porters
Park Fees, Tax
Gate transfer
Crew wages
Environment fees
camping throughout you climb!
Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners
Drinking water
Cook
Exclusion, 6-days Kilimanjaro trek Rongai
Flights
Tipping the crew
Visas
Flights
Tipping the crew
Visas