The Rongai Route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border. Known for its gentle gradient, dry climate, and remote wilderness, it is perfect for trekkers seeking solitude and stunning scenery. Unlike the southern routes, Rongai offers a less crowded experience and is considered one of the easiest routes technically, though the altitude still presents challenges.
This route can be done in 6 days, but we recommend 7 days for better acclimatization and a higher summit success rate.
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha. In the evening, meet your mountain guide for a comprehensive pre-climb briefing, including gear checks and safety procedures. Overnight in a comfortable lodge.
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Moshi
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Hotel in Moshi
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Moshi
After breakfast, drive to Rongai Gate near the Kenyan border for registration and final preparations. The trek begins through lush pine forest and rural farmland before entering the heath zone. The path is gentle and scenic, with chances of spotting Colobus monkeys and forest wildlife. After 3 to 4 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Simba Camp, located near the edge of the moorland zone with views of Kenya’s plains below.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 3–4 hours | Distance: 8 km
Today’s trek is a steady ascent through open moorland, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s Kibo Peak. Vegetation becomes sparse as you move higher. After about 6 hours, arrive at Second Cave Camp, which provides amazing views of Mawenzi Peak, Kilimanjaro’s rugged sister summit. Lunch will be served along the way or upon arrival.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 5–6 hours | Distance: 9 km
Leaving Second Cave behind, the trail continues through a mixture of moorland and semi-desert. The trek is relatively short but involves gradual altitude gain. After 3 to 4 hours of hiking, arrive at Kikelewa Camp, set in a stunning valley surrounded by giant senecio plants. The afternoon can be spent relaxing and enjoying the magnificent views of Mawenzi and the surrounding landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 3–4 hours
Today’s hike is one of the most beautiful on the Rongai Route. The trail climbs steadily through alpine desert towards Mawenzi Tarn Hut, located at the base of Mawenzi Peak, one of the most dramatic volcanic cones on Kilimanjaro. The campsite here is spectacular, with a clear tarn (mountain lake) and a backdrop of rugged peaks. This day helps with acclimatization and offers a short afternoon hike if desired.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 4–5 hours
After breakfast, trek across the saddle, a vast high-altitude desert between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The terrain is barren but striking, giving a sense of the mountain’s immense scale. The hike is long but gentle, taking 5 to 6 hours to reach Kibo Hut, your base for the summit attempt. After an early dinner, rest and prepare for the midnight summit push.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Summit day begins before midnight. Equipped with headlamps and layers of warm gear, you start the steep ascent up the Kibo Crater rim towards Gilman’s Point (5,685m). This is the toughest part of the climb, but your reward is incredible: a sunrise above the African plains from the Roof of Africa. From Gilman’s Point, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa. After celebrating and taking photos, descend back to Kibo Hut for a short break, then continue down to Horombo Hut for overnight rest. This is a long, demanding day, covering up to 12–14 hours of trekking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Trek Time: 12–14 hours
Enjoy breakfast before making the final descent through moorland and lush rainforest to Marangu Gate, where you will receive your summit certificate. Our vehicle will transfer you back to Moshi for a relaxing evening and celebration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Trek Time: 5–6 hours
$ 000/
The Machame Route is one of the most popular Kilimanjaro routes, offering beautiful views and a good balance of challenge and acclimatization. It’s known for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, culminating in the stunning summit of Uhuru Peak.
$000
The Marangu Route is the shortest and most straightforward route, making it a popular choice for first-time climbers. This is the only route that offers hut accommodations, meaning you don’t have to sleep in tents — perfect for those looking for a more comfortable trek.
$000
The Lemosho Route is a more remote and scenic route, perfect for trekkers who enjoy a quieter experience with stunning views. It’s a longer route, which means better acclimatization and a higher success rate. With fewer climbers and more natural beauty, it’s a truly unforgettable experience.
There are several routes, each with different characteristics. The Machame Route is the most popular and scenic, while the Marangu Route is the easiest and only one with hut accommodation. For a quieter climb, consider the Rongai Route. For experienced trekkers, Umbwe Route offers a more challenging ascent
There are several routes, each with different characteristics. The Machame Route is the most popular and scenic, while the Marangu Route is the easiest and only one with hut accommodation. For a quieter climb, consider the Rongai Route. For experienced trekkers, Umbwe Route offers a more challenging ascent
The typical duration is 5 to 9 days, depending on the route. The longer the climb, the better the chances of acclimatization and a successful summit.
Climbing Kilimanjaro requires physical stamina and mental preparation. While it’s not a technical climb, it can be challenging due to the high altitude. We recommend a moderate level of fitness and commitment. The difficulty varies depending on the route and how well you acclimatize.
No, you do not need technical climbing skills. However, the trek requires good physical fitness and the ability to handle altitude. If you’re a beginner, routes like Marangu or Rongai may be more suitable.
Depending on the route, you will either camp in tents or stay in mountain huts. The Marangu Route offers huts, while other routes like Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai require camping with tents.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains in the world.
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains in the world.
Essential items include:
Warm clothes (even in the tropics, temperatures can drop below freezing)
Waterproof gear (jackets, pants)
Climbing boots
Sleeping bags
Sunscreen
Headlamp/flashlight
Daypack
Personal items like toiletries and medication
We will provide a detailed gear list to help you pack efficiently.
The summit success rate ranges from 60% to 90%, depending on the route, acclimatization, and physical preparedness. Routes like Lemosho and Machame tend to have higher success rates due to better acclimatization schedules.
We provide transfers from Moshi or Arusha to the starting gate of the trek. Our team will ensure smooth transport from your hotel to the departure point.
Lujoma Expeditions is a locally owned Tanzanian tour company specializing in custom safaris, cultural experiences, mountain treks, and beach holidays across East Africa.
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