The roof of Africa · Tanzania
7 Days Rongai Route
The quiet northern approach: drier, less crowded and a good choice in the rainy months.
Duration: 7 Days · Style: Kilimanjaro Climbs · Best time: All year · good in rains · Route: Rongai Gate → Simba Camp → Kikelewa → Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut → Uhuru
Highlights
- Wilderness feel
- Mawenzi Tarn
- Descent via Marangu
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Rongai Gate → Simba Camp
Pine forest and farmland on the northern slopes.
Day 2: Simba → Kikelewa Camp
Open moorland with views of Mawenzi's jagged peaks.
Day 3: Kikelewa → Mawenzi Tarn
A short, steep climb to a tarn beneath Mawenzi's spires.
Day 4: Acclimatization at Mawenzi Tarn
Hike up the ridge and return.
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn → Kibo Hut
Cross the lunar saddle to Kibo.
Day 6: Uhuru Peak → Horombo
Summit at sunrise, descend to Horombo Hut.
Day 7: Horombo → Marangu Gate
Down through the forest to the gate.