Approaching Kilimanjaro from the north, near the Kenyan border, the Rongai Route offers a quiet, scenic, and gradual climb, perfect for trekkers seeking a less crowded, more remote experience. This route passes through pristine wilderness, with clear views of the mountain’s north face and unique dry landscapes not seen on other routes.
Because it starts on the drier northern slopes, Rongai is an excellent choice during the rainy season. The trail merges with the Marangu Route near Kibo Hut, providing comfortable descent options. Its steady gradient and gentle acclimatization profile make it one of the most reliable routes for summit success while offering solitude, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking panoramas.
Experience Kilimanjaro from the remote northern wilderness.
Gentle, steady ascent: ideal for first-time climbers.
Cross diverse landscapes: pine forest, moorland, alpine desert, and glaciers.
Less crowded than southern routes, offering quiet and solitude.
Summit Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) via a scenic and gradual approach.
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet your Unpredictable Safaris representative. Transfer to Moshi for a pre-climb briefing, gear check, and dinner. Meet your mountain crew and rest well before the trek begins.
After breakfast, drive from Moshi to Rongai Gate (1,950m), on Kilimanjaro’s northern side near the Kenya border. Register with park authorities and begin trekking through pine forests and farmlands, with a chance to see colobus monkeys and mountain birds. The trail is gentle and scenic, gradually climbing to First Cave Camp (2,600m).
Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Continue your ascent, passing Second Cave (3,450m) with incredible views of Kibo Peak. The terrain opens up into moorland, dotted with heathers and volcanic rock formations. Stop for lunch along the way before reaching Kikelewa Cave Camp, set in a sheltered valley near a small stream.
Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
A short but steep climb brings you to Mawenzi Tarn, one of the most scenic camps on Kilimanjaro. Nestled beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi Peak, this alpine zone offers spectacular views and excellent opportunities for acclimatization. Spend the afternoon exploring or resting.
Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
Trek across the high-altitude saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks — a vast, lunar-like desert offering stunning, open views. The air is thinner here, so move slowly and hydrate frequently. Arrive at Kibo Hut by afternoon, rest, and prepare for the midnight summit push.
Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
Start your summit climb around midnight, ascending slowly under the stars to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. Continue to Uhuru Peak, Africa’s highest point, in time for sunrise over the glaciers. Celebrate your success with breathtaking views, then descend carefully to Kibo Hut for a meal before continuing down to Horombo Hut.
Trekking Time: 12–14 hours
Descend through moorland and rainforest to Marangu Gate (1,980 m), where you’ll receive your summit certificate. Celebrate with your team, then transfer back to Moshi for a warm shower, a well-deserved meal, and an overnight rest.
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home or onward safari. Take home lasting memories of your northern Kilimanjaro adventure.
Our trekking packages offer exceptional value, covering everything from expert guides and nutritious meals to high-quality camping gear, ensuring a safe and memorable summit experience.
Give us a call or send an online enquiry. Have your Tanzanian dream list ready so we can begin planning your Unpredictable safari.
A travel specialist will collaborate with you to design your unique Unpredictable safari adventure and craft your personalized itinerary.
Review and confirm your safari plan. Prepare your travel essentials and get ready for your journey. We can’t wait to welcome you to Tanzania soon.
