6 Days Rongai Route

Starting from the northern side near the Kenyan border, the Rongai Route offers a unique perspective of Kilimanjaro. After registration at Rongai Gate (1,950m), you begin hiking through cultivated farmland and pine forests. The trail is gentle and the northern slopes receive less rainfall, offering drier conditions and often clearer views. You pass through areas where you might spot wildlife including antelope and buffalo. The forest is less dense than on the southern routes, providing more open views. Simba Camp (2,650m), meaning "lion" in Swahili, sits at the edge of the moorland zone.

Leaving the forest behind, you enter the moorland zone with its distinctive heather and volcanic landscape. The trail climbs steadily across open moorland with increasingly expansive views of Kibo Peak and the surrounding plains. The terrain is relatively gentle, allowing good acclimatization. You pass First Cave (an old shelter cave used by early climbers) and continue to Second Cave Camp (3,450m). The camp offers spectacular sunset views and your first real sense of altitude as the air becomes noticeably thinner.

The trail continues upward through increasingly sparse vegetation as you climb into the alpine desert zone. The landscape becomes more barren and rocky, with stunning views across the Kenyan plains to the north. You'll notice the effects of altitude more distinctly today as you gain elevation steadily. The path crosses several ridges with panoramic vistas of both Kibo and Mawenzi peaks. Third Cave Camp (3,800m) sits in a more protected location, offering some shelter from the wind that can pick up in the afternoons at this altitude.

Today you cross the stark lunar landscape of the alpine desert toward the base of the Kibo crater. The vegetation has completely disappeared, leaving only volcanic rock and scree. You pass the junction with the Marangu Route and continue to School Hut (4,750m), also known as Kibo Hut. This is your highest camp before the summit attempt, situated at the base of the summit crater. The afternoon is spent resting, hydrating, and preparing your equipment for the midnight summit push. The views of Mawenzi Peak and the sunset over the clouds are extraordinary.

Begin your summit attempt around midnight, climbing steadily through darkness toward Gilman's Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. The scree path is challenging and each step requires effort in the thin air. Reaching Gilman's Point at sunrise rewards you with spectacular views of the crater, glaciers, and the emerging dawn. From here, continue along the crater rim to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. The sense of achievement is overwhelming as you stand on the Roof of Africa. After photos and celebration, descend back past School Hut and continue to Horombo Hut (3,720m) on the Marangu Route for the night. This extremely long day covers both summit and descent.

The final day is a long but gentle descent through moorland and rainforest back to civilization. You pass Mandara Hut (2,700m) where you stop for lunch, then continue through increasingly lush vegetation. The rainforest comes alive with bird songs and monkey calls - a refreshing change from the barren summit zone. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so watch your footing. At Marangu Gate (1,860m), you sign out and receive your summit certificate. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest and celebration.