
The Rongai route on Kilimanjaro – a detailed day-by-day description
The Rongai route is the only route that ascends the northern slope of Kilimanjaro. It's a quieter route, and offers some amazing views. We discuss the pros and cons of the Rongai to help you decide if it's the right Kilimanjaro route for you.

by Paul Kelly
9 min read
Overview:
- Rongai route at a glance
- Detailed route description
- What is the scenery like on the Rongai?
- How hard is the Rongai route?
- How busy is the Rongai route?
- What does the Rongai route cost?
- Keen to explore more of Tanzania?
Rongai route at a glance


Detailed route description

Day 1: Rongai Gate to Simba Camp
Elevation: 1,950 m to 2,830 m Distance: 8 km / 5 miles Hiking time: 4 hours Habitat: Forest

Day 2: Simba Camp to Second Cave
Elevation: 2,830 m to 3,450 m Distance: 6 km / 4 miles Hiking time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Moorland

Day 3: Second Cave to Kikelelwa Cave
Elevation: 3,450 m to 3,600 Distance: 6 km / 4 miles Hiking time: 3-4 hours Habitat: Moorland

Day 4: Kikelelwa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn Hut
Elevation: 3,600 m to 4,315 m Distance: 4 km / 2 miles Hiking time: 4 hours Habitat: Moorland and alpine desert

Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut
Elevation: 4,315 m to 4,703 m Distance: 8 km / 5 miles Hiking time: 5-6 hours Habitat: Alpine desert

Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Part 1 | Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak
Elevation: 4,703 m to 5,895 m Distance: 6 km / 4 miles Hiking time: 7-8 hours Habitat: Arctic

Part 2 | Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut
Elevation: 5,895 m to 3,720 m Distance: 12 km / 7 miles Hiking time: 7-8 hours Habitat: Arctic, alpine desert and moorland

Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Elevation: 3,720 m to 1,843 m Distance: 10 km / 6 miles Hiking time: 5-7 hours Habitat: Moorland and rainforest


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What is the scenery like on the Rongai?

How hard is the Rongai route?

How busy is the Rongai route?

What does the Rongai route cost?

Keen to explore more of Tanzania?
