6-Days Rongai Route (8-Day Itinerary)

Best Season: January – March, June – October

Max Group Size: 8 People
Elevation Gain: 4,700 – 4,900 m
Book This Itinerary

What to Expect on This 6-Day Rongai Route

The Rongai Route appeals to seasoned climbers seeking a quieter path up Kilimanjaro’s northern flank, where brisk winds and sparse vegetation reveal sweeping views into Kenya. You’ll ascend from the Kenya border side and then descend along the classic Marangu Route, experiencing both faces of the mountain. The standard trek takes six days, but we highly recommend adding a seventh day—usually for an extra acclimatization stop—which greatly improves your summit success and helps ward off altitude sickness.

With Africano Paraiso, you’ll climb with a dedicated team of professional guides, porters, and a gourmet camp cook who provide twice-daily health checks, nourishing meals, and seamless logistics. We also supply a comprehensive pre-climb guide—complete with packing checklists, route details, and training tips—to ensure you’re fully prepared. Fit, healthy adventurers spending 6–7 hours a day on the trail will find the Rongai Route within reach. Ready to summit Africa’s highest peak by this unique northern approach? Let’s make it happen!

Best season to visit: January – March, June – October

Best Seasons to Trek
Jan–Mar

Peak trekking season: clear skies and stable weather.

Apr–Jun

Shoulder season: fewer crowds, occasional showers.

Jul–Sep

Dry season: best views but can be dusty.

Pricing

No pricing available for this trek.

What’s Included
  • Guided trekking with an experienced guide
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • All park fees & permits
  • Camping equipment & porters
What’s Not Included
  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses & tips
Touch down at JRO and begin your Paraiso adventure. Day 1

Touch down at JRO and begin your Paraiso adventure.

When you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your Paraiso guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel, where you can unwind after your journey. Before your climb begins, you’ll join your guide for a detailed briefing—covering essential gear, packing advice, and expert tips to ensure your ascent is as comfortable and successful as possible.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Reach out to our team to pick the ideal mid-range hotel accommodation for your stay. Lodge — 3★ Kilimanjaro/Arusha
Rongai Gate (1,950 m) → First Cave Camp (2,650 m) Day 2

Rongai Gate (1,950 m) → First Cave Camp (2,650 m)

Your journey kicks off when your Paraiso guide collects you from the hotel and whisks you two hours to Rongai Gate. From there, you’ll trek through verdant rainforest alive with birdsong and wildlife sounds. After a leisurely lunch break, continue above the tree line to First Cave Camp on Kilimanjaro’s drier northern flank—where the quieter trail offers prime opportunities for spotting grazing antelope, curious monkeys, and other highland creatures.

Accommodation

First Cave Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
First Cave Camp (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) → Kikelewa Camp (3,660 m / 12,007 ft) Day 3

First Cave Camp (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) → Kikelewa Camp (3,660 m / 12,007 ft)

Today’s trek covers 5–6 hours and begins with a steady ascent where the effects of altitude may start to be felt. As you climb, you’re treated to your first close-up views of the rugged Mawenzi Peak. You’ll pause at the First Cave to explore before continuing to the Second Cave for a scenic lunch break. The afternoon stretch is gentler as you make your way to the camp nestled in a peaceful valley near Kikelewa—offering a serene spot to rest and acclimatize.

Accommodation

Kikelewa Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Kikelewa Camp (3,660 m / 12,007 ft) → Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,305 m / 13,238 ft) Day 4

Kikelewa Camp (3,660 m / 12,007 ft) → Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,305 m / 13,238 ft)

Today you’ll tackle a steeper 4–5-hour trek, rewarded with sweeping panoramas at every turn. Arriving at Mawenzi Tarn Camp—nestled just below the Mawenzi summit—you’ll rest here in the afternoon and evening to allow your body to acclimatize. From this high camp, marvel at commanding views of both Mawenzi and Kibo peaks as the sun sets.

Accommodation

Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,305 m / 13,238 ft) → Kibo Huts Camp (4,720 m / 15,485 ft) Day 5

Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,305 m / 13,238 ft) → Kibo Huts Camp (4,720 m / 15,485 ft)

Day 5 leads you across Kilimanjaro’s otherworldly alpine desert—nicknamed the “lunar landscape”—on a 5–6-hour trek to Kibo Huts Camp (4,720 m), nestled just below the summit. Here, panoramic vistas stretch over the Kenyan plains. After lunch, settle in for an afternoon of rest and mental preparation, readying yourself for tomorrow’s exhilarating push to Uhuru Peak.

Accommodation
Kibo Huts

Kibo Huts

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Kibo Huts (4,720 m) → Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Huts (3,720 m) Day 6

Kibo Huts (4,720 m) → Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Huts (3,720 m)

Set off at midnight for your final summit push to Uhuru Peak—Africa’s highest point! Expect a challenging 12-hour day on trail. Using headlamps, you’ll tackle the steep climb to Gilman’s Point, after which the path to the summit is more straightforward. Watch a breathtaking sunrise from 5,895 m, celebrate your triumph, then descend to Kibo Huts for a hot meal before continuing down to Horombo Huts for your overnight rest.

Accommodation
Horombo Hut

Horombo Hut

Camp — 1★ Kilimanjaro
Horombo Huts (3,720 m / 12,204 ft) → Marangu Gate (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) → Return to Hotel Day 7

Horombo Huts (3,720 m / 12,204 ft) → Marangu Gate (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) → Return to Hotel

On your final morning, you’ll trek 5–6 hours downhill through verdant rainforest to Marangu Gate, the park’s exit. Celebrate with your fellow climbers at the finish line, then relax as your Paraiso driver whisks you back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Reach out to our team to pick the ideal mid-range hotel accommodation for your stay. Lodge — 3★ Kilimanjaro/Arusha
Transfer from your hotel to Airport for your departure flight. Day 8

Transfer from your hotel to Airport for your departure flight.

As your Kilimanjaro adventure comes to a close, savor your final hours in Tanzania before our driver whisks you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home. Craving more? Extend your journey with a thrilling safari or a relaxing beach retreat to keep the memories alive!

Essential Gear for This Trek

🧳 Rent or Buy Your Gear?

If you’ve already climbed peaks above 5,000 meters, you likely have most of the gear needed for Kilimanjaro. But for many of our guests, this is their first big trek — and that’s perfectly okay!

At Africano Paraiso, we recommend renting gear locally if you're not planning future climbs. A full kit can cost over $1,000, while rentals for essentials like sleeping bags, down jackets, and trekking poles are typically just $250–$300.

Planning more hikes? Then investing in your own equipment makes sense. Just remember: a full kit can weigh 15–17 kg. This matters when booking flights to Zanzibar or safari extensions, where luggage limits often cap at 15 kg.

Even experienced hikers often rent heavier gear for convenience. Whether you rent or bring your own, Africano Paraiso ensures you're fully prepared for a smooth and unforgettable Kilimanjaro experience.

Fleece jacket for mid-layer insulation
Fleece jacket for mid-layer insulation

Fleece jackets are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro gear. Whether worn on their own or layered over a trekking shirt, they provide much-needed warmth—especially during chilly evenings at camp. You’ll find yourself using a fleece jacket on most days of your climb, making it a must-have for the trek. For optimal performance, Polartec 200 fleece is highly recommended thanks …

Warm Jacket
Warm Jacket

A warm jacket is essential for your Kilimanjaro climb, especially during cold evenings at camp and the summit push. It’s a key part of your gear that should not be overlooked. Choose a jacket that’s neither too bulky nor too thin, and designed to keep you comfortable in temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). A hooded design is highly recommended …

Membrane Hard Shell Rain Jacket
Membrane Hard Shell Rain Jacket

A hard shell rain jacket is a must-have from day one—especially on routes like the Lemosho 7-day trek, which begins at elevations around 3,500 m (11,500 ft). Always keep it easily accessible in your daypack, as weather can shift quickly on the mountain. Designed to shield you from wind and light rain, this jacket plays a key role in your …

Trekking Pants
Trekking Pants

A reliable pair of trekking pants is typically all you need for a Kilimanjaro expedition. Even if you enjoy hiking in shorts, it's important to bring long trousers for the colder high-altitude sections and the cool evenings at camp.

Membrane pants of rain pants
Membrane pants of rain pants

Membrane pants are a key part of your Kilimanjaro gear, especially during the rainy season. When layered over your trekking pants, they offer reliable protection from wind and rain, helping you stay dry, warm, and comfortable throughout the climb.

Warm Trouser
Warm Trouser

Warm trousers or ski pants are an essential part of your Kilimanjaro gear—especially for summit night, when temperatures drop well below freezing. These pants should be fleece-lined for insulation and have a water-resistant, windproof outer shell to protect you from harsh alpine conditions. Designed for extreme cold, they should keep you comfortable in temperatures below -15°C (5°F). Even before summit …

Daypack
Daypack

Your daypack is your go-to companion during the Kilimanjaro trek, carrying all your daily essentials—like sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, flashlight, water flask, snacks, and any personal gadgets such as a camera or smartphone. Aim to keep your daypack lightweight and compact. Heavier backpacks are better suited for other adventures. Most importantly, ensure it fits comfortably on your back. We strongly …

Duffle bag
Duffle bag

Duffel bags are carried by porters on their heads, so it’s important to choose a soft, flexible model to ensure their comfort. Over the course of the trek, a porter may carry your bag for 40–60 km, and even more on longer routes like the Northern Circuit—making weight and structure crucial. According to Kilimanjaro National Park regulations, your fully loaded …

Dry bag (optional)
Dry bag (optional)

Rain is common on Kilimanjaro, so packing a dry bag is highly recommended. Placing it inside your duffle bag or backpack helps keep your gear dry and ready for use in all conditions. If you bring one, be sure it's large enough to hold your sleeping bag and other essentials.

Water Flask
Water Flask

Certainly! Here's a refined and more engaging version of your passage: --- A water flask is absolutely essential for your Kilimanjaro adventure. Unlike low-quality hydration bladders that can freeze overnight, a sturdy flask keeps your water accessible even in cold conditions. Since you’ll need to drink 3–4 liters of water daily, carrying one or two 1-liter flasks is highly recommended. …

Camel bag / Hydration bladder (Optional)
Camel bag / Hydration bladder (Optional)

A hydration bladder (commonly known as a "camel bag") is strongly recommended for your Kilimanjaro trek. If your daypack is hydration-compatible, using a bladder will make staying hydrated far more convenient during the climb. Be sure to invest in a high-quality model—cheaper versions may fail under extreme conditions. It's especially important to choose one with an insulated drinking tube, as …

Travel bag organizers
Travel bag organizers

Travel organizers are a great addition to your packing system, making it easy to sort your gear inside a duffle bag. They’re especially useful for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from clean items, helping you stay organized throughout your trip.

Hiking Boots
Hiking Boots

Choosing the right hiking boots is crucial for a successful Kilimanjaro trek. Look for medium-weight, waterproof boots with strong ankle support and a secure lacing system. Break them in with at least two hikes before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort. Recommended brands include La Sportiva, Zamberlan, The North Face, Asolo, Salomon, and Scarpa. If you’re not planning to …

Sneakers (Optional)
Sneakers (Optional)

On certain routes, the early days of your Kilimanjaro trek are relatively gentle, allowing you to wear lightweight trekking sneakers instead of boots. Later in the journey, once you arrive at camp, you’ll likely want to give your feet a break from heavy boots. That’s when sneakers become especially useful — perfect for walking around camp, exploring nearby areas, or …

Trekking socks
Trekking socks

Trekking socks are essential for a climb like Kilimanjaro. Avoid cotton socks—they trap moisture and increase the risk of blisters. Instead, opt for wool or wool-blend socks, which offer excellent moisture-wicking and comfort. A reliable brand to consider is Bridgedale, known for performance and durability on high-altitude treks.

Thermal socks (Optional)
Thermal socks (Optional)

Thermal socks aren’t mandatory, but they’re highly recommended—especially for summer climbs when warmth at higher altitudes becomes essential. Look for non-cotton options with flat seams for maximum comfort. Wool socks are an excellent choice, offering warmth, breathability, and moisture control. With many quality brands available, it’s easy to find a pair that suits your needs perfectly.

Gaiters (Optional)
Gaiters (Optional)

Gaiters aren’t mandatory for Kilimanjaro, but they become extremely useful during the rainy season. They help keep mud, snow, and small rocks out of your boots, ensuring greater comfort along the trail. While often underestimated, gaiters go a long way in keeping your trekking pants and boots clean and dry, making gear easier to manage each day. They also provide …

Sun hat
Sun hat

A sun hat is an essential item for your Kilimanjaro packing list. For added protection, choose one with a built-in neck flap. It helps shield your face and neck from sunburn and keeps you cool under strong mountain sun.

Beanie
Beanie

A beanie is an essential item for your Kilimanjaro climb. As you gain altitude, temperatures drop significantly — especially near the summit. A warm, well-fitting beanie will help protect your head and ears from the cold and wind, making a big difference in comfort during early mornings and snowy summit conditions.

Balaclava (Optional)
Balaclava (Optional)

A balaclava is an excellent choice for hikers who are sensitive to cold. A wool or thermal balaclava helps shield your chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead from biting winds—especially during the summit night. While you may not need it often during the trek, it becomes invaluable at high altitudes.

Neck warmer (Optional)
Neck warmer (Optional)

A neck warmer can be a great addition to your gear. It offers extra warmth for your neck and face in cold conditions and also helps protect against dust on windy trails. Many trekkers find it surprisingly useful.

Sun Glasses
Sun Glasses

Sunglasses are essential for your Kilimanjaro climb. At altitudes nearing 6,000 meters, UV radiation is significantly stronger than at sea level, making proper eye protection critical. In addition to direct sunlight, snow near the summit reflects intense glare, increasing the risk of snow blindness—a painful and potentially serious condition that can cause lasting eye damage. To stay protected, always wear …

Headlamp
Headlamp

A headlamp is an essential item for anyone trekking Mount Kilimanjaro. Once the sun sets at camp, visibility drops significantly, making it difficult to move around or even find your tent. Without a headlamp, navigating tent ropes or heading to the bathroom at night can become hazardous. Most importantly, during the summit attempt, climbers typically begin the ascent around midnight …

Trekking Poles
Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are highly recommended for Kilimanjaro—not just for comfort, but for joint support. Daily hikes range from 7–10 km over rugged terrain, often lasting 4–8 hours. This puts significant strain on your knees, especially at high altitude. Poles provide extra balance, reduce impact, and become especially helpful during the summit push when fatigue sets in. By shifting some weight …

Lightweight gloves
Lightweight gloves

Lightweight gloves are essential from Day 2 of your Kilimanjaro trek onward. Most trekkers wear them until reaching the summit camp, where they switch to outer gloves. Choose inner gloves made from quality materials like wool, Polartec, or synthetics for warmth and moisture control. Avoid cotton, as it lacks proper wicking ability and won’t keep your hands dry in mountain …

Mittens
Mittens

You'll need warm, waterproof gloves or mittens for the summit night. Comfort and insulation are key, as you’ll be holding trekking poles for up to eight hours in freezing temperatures. Mittens are often the better choice, offering superior warmth in the -15°C / 5°F summit zone—where keeping your hands protected is absolutely essential.

Sleeping bag
Sleeping bag

No matter the season or route you choose to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, a warm sleeping bag is essential. Even on the Marangu route, where huts are provided, the shelters are not heated, and temperatures drop significantly at night. Staying warm is entirely up to you. When selecting a sleeping bag, pay close attention to its temperature ratings: The comfort level …

Sleeping bag liner (Optional)
Sleeping bag liner (Optional)

A sleeping bag liner adds valuable warmth during the coldest nights of your Kilimanjaro climb, especially near the summit. Mummy-shaped liners are more efficient than rectangular ones, and both fleece and insulated options work well. A quality liner can increase your sleeping bag’s comfort range by 3 to 8°C, making it possible to bring your own bag—even if it doesn’t …

Inflatable pillow (Optional)
Inflatable pillow (Optional)

An inflatable pillow is a great comfort item, especially for those who enjoy reading or relaxing in the tent. That said, if you prefer to pack light, you can always improvise by using your backpack or rolled-up clothes as a makeshift pillow.

Wet wipes (Optional)
Wet wipes (Optional)

Wet wipes are a great alternative for staying fresh on Kilimanjaro, especially if you’re not using a portable shower. Bring two packs—one small pack in your daypack for quick refreshes during the trek, and a larger pack in your duffel bag for evening hygiene at camp.

Camera
Camera

The views from Mount Kilimanjaro are absolutely breathtaking, and capturing them is a highlight for many trekkers. Whether it’s the sunrise over the clouds or the rugged summit landscape, these are moments you’ll want to remember. Bring a smartphone with a power bank or a GoPro with extra batteries to document your journey and preserve the magic of your adventure.

Power Banks
Power Banks

If you're bringing any electronic devices, a power bank is essential. With no power outlets available on Mount Kilimanjaro, it's the only reliable way to keep your smartphone, e-reader, or other gadgets charged during the trek.

E-Book
E-Book

If you enjoy reading before bed, this is a must-pack essential.

Mp3 Player
Mp3 Player

This is the secret to making your Kilimanjaro adventure unforgettable — especially on summit night. Listening to your favorite songs will lift your spirits, boost your energy, and make those magical moments at the Roof of Africa even more special.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. It’s known for being quieter, drier, and less crowded, offering a peaceful wilderness experience and unique views not seen on other trails.

Yes — the 6-day version is well-paced and includes a solid acclimatization strategy. It offers a good balance between gradual elevation gain and total trek time, making it suitable for first-time high-altitude climbers who prefer a quieter, less steep route.

It’s often considered one of the easiest routes in terms of gradient, thanks to its steady ascent and drier trail conditions. While summit night is still challenging, Rongai is a great option for those seeking a gentler climb with fewer crowds.

Rongai is a full camping route. Africano Paraiso provides quality mountain tents, thick sleeping mats, and a dining tent, all set up and packed down daily by our support team. Expect basic conditions, but warm hospitality and hearty meals throughout.

You’ll hike through remote pine forests, open moorlands, and dramatic lava ridges, with chances to spot wildlife like colobus monkeys. The descent via the Marangu Route gives you a taste of contrasting scenery — including rainforest and crater views.

The summit attempt begins around midnight from Kibo Camp. You’ll ascend steadily in the dark, aiming to reach Uhuru Peak by sunrise. It’s the toughest part of the climb — both mentally and physically — but incredibly rewarding.

We provide a fully supported experience, including:
✔️ National park and camping fees
✔️ Certified mountain guides, porters & chef
✔️ Tents, sleeping mats, and all meals
✔️ Pre-climb briefing and transfers
✔️ Daily health checks & emergency support

You’ll also receive a detailed packing list and optional gear rental support.

This route is ideal year-round, especially in the wet seasons, as it lies on Kilimanjaro’s drier northern slope. Best months for trekking are January to March and June to October, but Rongai remains passable even in shoulder months.

Despite being drier, weather can change quickly at altitude. Bring layered thermal clothing, waterproof outerwear, a -15°C sleeping bag, trekking poles, headlamp, and a sturdy daypack. Our team will assist you with gear prep or rentals as needed.

Absolutely. Africano Paraiso can arrange custom add-ons, whether you’re heading out on a Serengeti safari or relaxing in Zanzibar after your summit. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your adventure.

Price

Group Size & Pricing
Climbing Cost Includes
  • All airport & trailhead transfers (Toyota Alphard, Hiace/Coaster)
  • 3★ hotel in Moshi (bed & breakfast; half- & full-board upgrades available)
  • Premium camping equipment: 4-season tents, 3″ mats, tables, chairs, mess tents, hand-washing station
  • All meals on the mountain (custom diet plans at no extra cost)
  • Experienced WFR-certified guides & porter support team
  • Preventive oxygen bottles
  • Real-time GPS tracking link
  • Daily medical check-ups, fully-stocked medical kits & in-company doctor
  • 24/7 satellite-phone emergency support
  • All park fees & Tanzanian taxes (VAT, crew, rescue, conservation fees)
  • Dedicated back-office support team
  • Innovative online Personal Trip Board
  • Free safe-room & luggage storage
  • “Leave No Trace” waste-management team
  • Social-impact contributions to local communities
Climbing Cost Excludes
  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Tips for guides & porters (recommended US $250–350 pp)
  • Tanzania visa fee (approx. US $50; US citizens pay US $100)
  • Personal gear rentals (boots, sleeping bags, poles, etc.)
  • Single-occupancy supplement (hotel & tent)
  • Travel insurance (6 000 m altitude & helicopter evacuation required)
  • Portable toilet rental on mountain
  • Lunch & dinner at hotel before/after climb

Trekking Overview

Your 8-day adventure at a glance

8-Day Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1
    Touch down at JRO and begin your Paraiso adventure.
  • Day 2
    Rongai Gate (1,950 m) → First Cave Camp (2,650 m)
  • Day 3
    First Cave Camp (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) → Kikelewa Camp (3,660 m / 12,007 ft)
  • Day 4
    Kikelewa Camp (3,660 m / 12,007 ft) → Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,305 m / 13,238 ft)
  • Day 5
    Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,305 m / 13,238 ft) → Kibo Huts Camp (4,720 m / 15,485 ft)
  • Day 6
    Kibo Huts (4,720 m) → Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) → Horombo Huts (3,720 m)
  • Day 7
    Horombo Huts (3,720 m / 12,204 ft) → Marangu Gate (1,860 m / 6,102 ft) → Return to Hotel
  • Day 8
    Transfer from your hotel to Airport for your departure flight.

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