Rongai Ascent: Kilimanjaro Northbound (7 Days)

9 days 8 nights
Tanzania
Photo Daniel M.
Daniel M.
Tour Provider
View Daniel’s tours
Difficulty
Moderate
Comfort
Basic
Group size
2-15 tourists,
over 15 y.o.

Escape the crowds on the Rongai Route, the only trail that approaches Kilimanjaro from the remote northern side. Entirely within Tanzania, this route lies near the Kenyan border and is known for its peaceful wilderness and rare chances to see wildlife like elephants, antelope, and buffalo. The northeast slopes receive little rainfall, giving trekkers better odds of clear views throughout the climb. With a gentler gradient, Rongai is less physically demanding early on, but its limited "climb high, sleep low" profile means 7- or 8-day treks are ideal for proper acclimatization. The final ascent from Kibo Hut joins the legendary Marangu path past Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak, then descends via the scenic Marangu Route.

from
$2,120
per tourist for 9 days
Departing from
Kilimanjaro Region, Kilimanjaro International Airport
Available dates
Only in the Hiking Trekking Club
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Photo Daniel M.
Daniel M. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English
Daniel (Managing Director) worked as a tour guide and founded the company in 2016. We are locally owned and based in Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda. We also operate our own fleet of vehicles and employ our own drivers and guides.

Tour highlights

Scenic Northern Ascent with Fewer Crowds
Experience Kilimanjaro’s only northern approach, offering a peaceful, less-traveled path through untouched wilderness and stunning landscapes.
Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
Spot unique wildlife such as colobus monkeys, antelope, elephants, and buffalo in their natural habitat—something rare on other Kilimanjaro routes.
Drier Climate and Clearer Views
The northeastern slopes receive less rain, giving you a better chance of clear skies, epic mountain views, and a more comfortable trek overall.

Route details

Day 1
Arrival in Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Moshi. Settle in and enjoy the comfort of cozy rooms, hot showers, a swimming pool, and Wi-Fi. In the evening, attend a pre-climb briefing with our experienced mountain team to go over gear checks and final preparations.

Day 2
Rongai Gate to Rongai Caves Camp
Day 3
Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave
Day 4
Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 5
Acclimatization at Mawenzi Ridge
Day 6
Mawenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut
Day 7
Summit Day: Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Day 8
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Day 9
Departure
Difficulty
Moderate
Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity
Tour provider's comments

Moderate fitness with previous trekking experience ideal

Accommodation

Comfort
Basic
Hotel
2 nights
Tent
6 nights
2 nights
3* Hotel

Bed and Breakfast

6 nights
Tent/Hut

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place
Kilimanjaro Region, Kilimanjaro International Airport
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Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
  • the forecasts for this season
  • the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included
  • Two way private airport transfers;
  • All park fees collected by the National Park;
  • Hotel ccommodations one night before and one night after the expedition;
  • Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro;
  • All meals on the hike;
  • All group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery and cutlery);
  • Oxygen cylinders and oximeters;
  • Complete Expedition medical kits;
  • Professional guides licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park;
  • Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.);
  • Government taxes;
  • Crew salaries;
  • Medical evacuations with AMREF Flying doctors;
  • Purified water while on the mountain;
  • Portable tented private flush toilet.
Extras
  • Personal Climbing gears;
  • Tanzania Visa on arrival;
  • Mountaineering Insurance;
  • Tips and Gratuities;
  • Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.).
Group size
2-15 tourists, over 15 y.o.
Duration
9 days
8 nights

It's important to know

Personal equipment you need for the tour

Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat, cold weather jacket, gloves, pants, and spare clothing.

Are there charging stations on Mount Kilimanjaro?
Do we tip the hiking crew?
What will I eat - I am a vegetarian?
How long is the hike?
What kind of experience do I need?
How high is Kilimanjaro?
What travel documents do I need?
Do you arrange airport pick up and drop off?
Will I see wildlife?
How many hours will I trek each day?
Do you affer crater camp option on Kilimanjaro climbs?
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
Cancellation of booking

Dates and Prices

  • Any dates on request during the season
    1 Jan – 31 Dec
    Request to book

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