6 – 7 days
Rongai Route
The driest side of the mountain and the quietest trail.
Duration
6 – 7 days
Difficulty
Moderate, gentle gradients
Scenery
Wilderness feel, with views into Kenya and toward Mawenzi
Sleeping
Camping
Approach
North
Route Overview
Rongai approaches from the north, in the rain shadow of the mountain. It is the best option during the wetter months and sees far fewer climbers.
Gradients are gentle, though the northern side offers less of the dramatic glacier scenery found on the west and south.
Best For
- Wet-season climbs
- Climbers who value solitude
- Those who prefer steady gradients
Day by Day
Day 1
Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp.
Day 2
To Second Cave Camp with views toward Mawenzi.
Day 3
To Kikelewa Camp across open moorland.
Day 4
Steep climb to Mawenzi Tarn with an acclimatisation walk.
Day 5
Across the saddle to Kibo Hut.
Day 6
Summit night to Uhuru Peak, then descend to Horombo.
Day 7
Descend to Marangu Gate.
What to Pack
- • Four-season sleeping bag
- • Warm layers for cold northern nights
- • Waterproofs
- • Trekking poles
- • Headtorch
Frequently Asked Questions
It sits in the mountain's rain shadow, which makes it the most reliable choice in April, May and November.
The gradients are gentler than Machame but the summit approach from Kibo is a long, steady climb.
Climb the Rongai Route
Tell us when you'd like to climb and how much walking you've done recently. If a different route suits you better, we'll say so.