Starting close to the burnt oranges and golds of the Kenyan border at the famed Mount Kilimanjaro, the Rongai route takes adventurers from its northeastern face to climb above the vast Amboseli plains, dotted with dry wood forests and free-ranging elephants. Approaching the crisp white summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to the west of the Mawenzi Peak, you will feel a sense of accomplishment upon completing this spectacular feat.
Our specialized vehicles will deposit climbers at the Rongai Gate, after which you will begin your experience ascending along the edge of the crater via Gillman’s Point to Uhuru Peak. Once you reach the highest point of the crater, and feeling as though on the edge of the world, you will be led through your descent via the picturesque Marangu route. This is a more bustling part of the journey, where you’ll be treated to sleeping in the comfort of park huts, as opposed to tents.
With good acclimatization, beautiful views, and rave reviews, we highly recommend the 7-day option for the Rongai route, so you can take your time to drink in the sights of Africa.
When you choose the Rongai Route for your Kilimanjaro climb, you can pick a 6-day or 7-day journey. The best choice for you depends on your trekking experience, how well you handle high altitudes, and whether you prefer a quieter, drier climb.
This is a faster option that’s best for people who have recent and significant experience at high altitudes (ideally above 13,100 feet). The shorter schedule means longer hiking days and less time for your body to adjust to the altitude. While you still get to see the unique northern scenery, this pace requires excellent physical fitness and a proven ability to handle altitude.
This is the recommended option for most climbers. It’s a great choice even if you’re an experienced trekker with limited high-altitude exposure or a fit beginner.
The extra day is crucial for your body to adjust to the altitude, which significantly increases your chances of reaching the summit. This itinerary allows for a more relaxed and comfortable pace. A major benefit of the 7-day climb is an acclimatization day at Mawenzi Tarn Hut. This day allows for rest and short walks to help your body prepare for higher elevations.
This is our most popular Rongai option and consistently has a high summit success rate.
The Rongai Route starts at the Rongai/Nale Moru Gate and takes you through the unique northern landscapes of the mountain.
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The Rongai Route on Kilimanjaro is known for its high summit success rate, primarily due to its superior acclimatization profile. Offering 6 and 7-day itineraries, the 7-day option is highly recommended for its better altitude adjustment, which typically leads to success rates of 80-85% or more.
The route is characterized by a gradual, less strenuous ascent from the north and fewer crowds in its initial stages, providing a more peaceful experience. Its unique, drier northern landscape is particularly appealing during the rainy season. The Rongai Route’s design is focused on a well-paced climb to maximize the chances of a successful and enjoyable summit.
Touch down at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your driver will be waiting to greet you. Let your driver whisk you away to your chosen hotel in the bright and bustling city of Arusha –the gateway to Tanzania.
Arusha is the beating heart of the wild – the last port of civilization before heading out into dense jungles and rich savannah plains. The markets of Arusha burst with color, and throng with locals picking up their weekly wares. The numerous cafes sell dark and deliriously good coffee from the plantations, and close by the infamous National Park lures visitors in to explore her evocative Maasai culture and exotic flora and fauna.
In the evening, you will enjoy a quick briefing, which will be conducted by a professional Bush 2 City Mountain Guide about your trek, and to ensure you are ready for climbing.
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a morning transfer from your hotel to Rongai Gate. After park registration and a hot lunch, you’ll meet your climbing team. Then, you’ll start your 5-hour trek through the lush rainforest, enjoying the diverse plant and animal life, before reaching Simba Campsite for the night.
Distance: 7km
Estimated hiking time: 3-4 hours
Elevation gain; 307m
Vegetation zone: Montane Forest
After a delicious breakfast, you’ll trek towards the striking Kibo peak, heading directly to Kikelelwa Camp, bypassing Second Cave. The trail offers a gentle uphill climb through the moorland and heather landscapes, known for their earthy brown tones. A hot lunch will be served upon your arrival at Kikelelwa, where your tents will be set up. The remainder of the day is for rest and preparation for the next stage of your journey.
Distance: 13km
Estimated hiking time: 8-9 hours
Elevation gain: 929m
Vegetation zone: Transition from Montane Forest to Moorland
Following breakfast, your journey continues to Mawenzi Tarn Hut, traversing a low desert landscape. A hot lunch will be served upon your arrival at the hut. The afternoon offers options for short acclimatization excursions, or you may choose to relax at the campsite.
Distance: 3km
Estimated hiking time 2-3 hours
Elevation gain; 715m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Leaving Mawenzi Tarn Hut, the trail gradually becomes steeper and rockier. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you’ll enjoy a warm and appetizing meal. The evening will be dedicated to relaxation and an early bedtime, ensuring you’re well-rested for the demanding midnight trek to the summit.
Distance: 8km
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain; 388m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Just after midnight, you’ll begin the challenging final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the “Roof of Africa.” This strenuous 5-hour climb to Gillman’s Point is difficult, even though it’s considered the easiest route. From Gillman’s, it’s another two hours to reach your ultimate goal, Uhuru Peak. After celebrating your achievement and capturing memories, you’ll begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest. Later in the afternoon, you’ll continue your descent to Horombo Huts, where you can relax and enjoy your final night on the mountain.
Distance: 21km
Estimated hiking time 10-12 hours
Elevation gain; 1192m
Elevation loss; 2175m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
After your final breakfast on Kilimanjaro, you’ll begin your last trek, descending through the misty rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, our vehicles will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel.
Distance: 19km
Estimated hiking time 6-8 hours
Elevation loss; –1841m
Vegetation zone: Transition from Moorland to rainforest
After getting some rest and refreshments at the hotel, your driver guide will take you to the airport, ready for your flight back home.
NOTE: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of your evening flight there is a procedural option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee
Touch down at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your driver will be waiting to greet you. Let your driver whisk you away to your chosen hotel in the bright and bustling city of Arusha –the gateway to Tanzania.
Arusha is the beating heart of the wild – the last port of civilization before heading out into dense jungles and rich savannah plains. The markets of Arusha burst with color, and throng with locals picking up their weekly wares. The numerous cafes sell dark and deliriously good coffee from the plantations, and close by the infamous National Park lures visitors in to explore her evocative Maasai culture and exotic flora and fauna.
In the evening, you will enjoy a quick briefing, which will be conducted by a professional Bush 2 City Mountain Guide about your trek, and to ensure you are ready for climbing.
Your Kilimanjaro adventure begins with a morning transfer from your hotel to Rongai Gate. After park registration and a hot lunch, you’ll meet your climbing team. Then, you’ll start your 5-hour trek through the lush rainforest, enjoying the diverse plant and animal life, before reaching Simba Campsite for the night.
Distance: 7km
Estimated hiking time: 3-4 hours
Elevation gain; 307m
Vegetation zone: Montane Forest
After a tasty breakfast, you’ll head towards the impressive Kibo peak, making your way to Second Cave. The path is a gentle uphill climb through the moorland and heather zones, characterized by their brownish hues. A hot lunch will be served at Second Caves Camp, where your tents will also be set up. You’ll have the option to take a short hike towards Third Cave to help you get used to the altitude, or you can simply relax at the camp.
Distance: 8km
Estimated hiking time: 3-4 hours
Elevation gain; 779m
Vegetation zone: Moorland
After breakfast, your trek continues towards Kibo, traversing exposed moorland and heather landscapes until you reach Kikelewa Caves Camp, where a hot lunch will be served.
Distance: 5km
Estimated hiking time: 3 hours
Elevation gain; 150m
Vegetation zone: Transition from moorland to Alpine desert
Following breakfast, your journey continues to Mawenzi Tarn Hut, traversing a low desert landscape. A hot lunch will be served upon your arrival at the hut. The afternoon offers options for short acclimatization excursions, or you may choose to relax at the campsite.
Distance: 3km
Estimated hiking time 2-3 hours
Elevation gain; 715m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Leaving Mawenzi Tarn Hut, the trail gradually becomes steeper and rockier. Upon reaching Kibo Hut, you’ll enjoy a warm and appetizing meal. The evening will be dedicated to relaxation and an early bedtime, ensuring you’re well-rested for the demanding midnight trek to the summit.
Distance: 8km
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Elevation gain; 388m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
Just after midnight, you’ll begin the challenging final ascent to Uhuru Peak, the “Roof of Africa.” This strenuous 5-hour climb to Gillman’s Point is difficult, even though it’s considered the easiest route. From Gillman’s, it’s another two hours to reach your ultimate goal, Uhuru Peak. After celebrating your achievement and capturing memories, you’ll begin your descent back to Kibo Hut for a brief rest. Later in the afternoon, you’ll continue your descent to Horombo Huts, where you can relax and enjoy your final night on the mountain.
Distance: 21km
Estimated hiking time: 10-12 hours
Elevation gain; 1192m
Elevation loss; 2175m
Vegetation zone: Alpine desert
After your final breakfast on Kilimanjaro, you’ll begin your last trek, descending through the misty rainforest back to Marangu Gate. Upon arrival, our vehicles will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel.
Distance: 19km
Estimated hiking time: 6-8 hours
Elevation loss; –1841m
Vegetation zone: Transition from Moorland to rain forest
After getting some rest and refreshments at the hotel, your driver guide will take you to the airport, ready for your flight back home.
NOTE: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of your evening flight there is a procedural option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee
Our classic climbing package is the ideal choice for most adventurers, blending great comfort with the highest safety standards to create an unforgettable experience.
Everything you need for a successful trek is included: experienced mountain crews, high-quality group equipment, and nutritionist-designed meals.
Your safety is our top priority. All our guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and every expedition includes oxygen cylinders, complete medical kits, and mandatory medical check-ups twice a day. For your peace of mind, a GPS device tracks your party’s progress in real-time, allowing you to share a link with family and friends.
Before and after your climb, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel with caring staff, reliable Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and hot water.
Price per person
Price per person
To ensure a smooth start and end to your climb, our package provides dedicated transfers specifically for your journey to and from the park gate. For your arrival and departure at the airport, we offer a separate, optional transfer service that can be arranged at your convenience. Just let us know your flight details if you’d like us to organize this for you.
Your pre and post-climb accommodation is included in your package. We’ve arranged comfortable stays for you before and after your climb to ensure you’re well-rested and ready for your adventure.
For your convenience and comfort on the mountain, we provide all necessary camping equipment for the trip, including tents, cooking gear, and dining essentials. Please note that you will need to bring your own sleeping bag.
Rest assured, all your meals throughout the entire climbing trip will be freshly prepared by our team. We’ve got your culinary needs covered from start to finish!
You’ll be in excellent hands with our experienced team on the mountain. Our well-trained and WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certified guides will lead the way, ensuring your safety and success. Our hardworking porters will manage all your gear, and our dedicated cook will prepare delicious meals, making your entire trip enjoyable and seamless.
For your safety on the mountain, an emergency oxygen tank is included and will be carried by the crew throughout your climb.
Your safety is our priority. We include daily medical check-ups by our WFR-certified guides, and our crew will carry a fully loaded medical kit to address any health concerns that may arise during the trek.
For your peace of mind, we provide 24/7 support via satellite phone throughout your entire trip, ensuring constant communication and emergency access no matter where you are on the mountain.
To ensure a completely hassle-free experience, all necessary park entrance fees, conservation fees, rescue fees, and government taxes are fully included in your package price. This means you won’t encounter any hidden costs for accessing the national park or climbing Kilimanjaro itself, allowing you to focus purely on your adventure.
You’ll have the full backing of our dedicated support team throughout your entire journey. From your initial inquiry until you safely return home, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Don’t worry about your extra luggage while you’re on the mountain. We provide a safe and secure storage room for any bags you don’t need to take on your climb. You can leave your belongings with us with complete peace of mind, and they’ll be ready for you upon your return
We’re passionate about protecting Mount Kilimanjaro’s natural splendor. Our “Leave No Trace” approach goes beyond words: we take proactive steps by deploying our dedicated teams during the off-peak season to remove any litter from the mountain. Our company fully funds these vital clean-up initiatives, ensuring every adventure with us contributes to a truly responsible and sustainable environment.
By booking directly with us, you directly fuel positive change. Your adventure provides stable employment for guides, porters, and cooks from nearby villages. We also commit to sourcing our supplies locally, ensuring your trip’s economic benefits flow right into the hands of area businesses and families, cultivating true prosperity within the region.
To ensure your comfort and maintain excellent hygiene during your Mount Kilimanjaro expedition, portable toilets are thoughtfully included in your package. Our aim is to provide a clean and convenient experience at all times.
We understand the importance of privacy and freedom while on the mountain. By providing dedicated portable toilets, we avoid reliance on public facilities. This not only gives you more personal space but also addresses the challenge of maintaining hygiene in public toilets, which can often be heavily used and difficult for park authorities to keep 100% clean at all times.
Please note that international flights are not included in the package price. You will need to arrange your own flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which serves as your entry and exit point for this trip.
Please note that tips for your climbing crew are not included in the package price. Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by our hardworking team for their excellent service. We encourage you to read more about our suggested tipping structure on our website for detailed guidance.
Please be aware that visa fees are not included in your package. You will be responsible for obtaining the necessary visa for entry into Tanzania.
Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the visa application process, we highly recommend you read our detailed article on visa application procedures available on our website. It provides step-by-step guidance to assist you.
Please note that personal gear rentals (e.g., specialized clothing, trekking poles, etc.) are not included in your package. While you’ll need to bring your own personal climbing and trekking equipment, it’s worth noting that there are reliable rental shops here in Tanzania.
This means you don’t necessarily have to buy all the equipment, especially if you don’t anticipate needing it for future treks. Instead of carrying a heavy load of gear from home, you can opt to bring essential items and rent the rest upon your arrival, making your travel much lighter and more convenient.
Please note that our package pricing is based on shared accommodation (double occupancy). If you are a solo traveler and prefer a private room, a single supplement will apply and will be an additional charge to your package.
Please be advised that travel insurance is not included in your package. It is mandatory for all clients to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, evacuation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Please note that lunch and dinner at your hotel before and after your climb are not included in your package. Only breakfast is provided at the hotel. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your own dining options for lunch and dinner during these times.
Elevate your climb with our premium package, designed for ultimate comfort and safety.
On the mountain, you’ll enjoy spacious walk-in tents with cots, an enhanced meal plan, a private portable toilet, and a satellite phone for staying in touch.
Your safety is our priority. All guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and we carry oxygen, medical kits, and conduct twice-daily medical checks.
The journey starts and ends with a stay at a Luxury hotel in Arusha, including breakfast and dinner.
Price per person
Price per person
This premium expedition package includes two nights at the luxurious Mount Meru Game Lodge in Arusha—one night before and one night after your climb. The lodge’s exceptional service and serene setting provide a comfortable and relaxing start and end to your adventure.
On the mountain, you’ll stay in spacious, custom-designed, four-season walk-in tents. By default, you’ll share a room at the lodge and a tent with your travel companion; single occupancy is available upon request for an additional fee.
To ensure your comfort and maintain excellent hygiene during your Mount Kilimanjaro expedition, portable toilets are thoughtfully included in your package. Our aim is to provide a clean and convenient experience at all times.
We understand the importance of privacy and freedom while on the mountain. By providing dedicated portable toilets, we avoid reliance on public facilities. This not only gives you more personal space but also addresses the challenge of maintaining hygiene in public toilets, which can often be heavily used and difficult for park authorities to keep 100% clean at all times.
At Bush 2 City, we provide a safe and comfortable camping experience on your Kilimanjaro adventure. Here’s what you can expect:
Our Tents and Sleeping Gear
We use durable tents designed to keep you warm and dry. Each tent has a separate area to store your boots and gear. Tents are spacious enough for two people and their bags, even though they’re made for three. You’ll share a tent with your travel partner, or with another hiker of the same sex if you’re traveling alone. If you’d like your own tent, you can request one for an additional fee.
For extra comfort, we offer a larger walk-in tent with enough space for a camping cot, also for an additional fee. All of our trips include a thick, 3-inch sleeping mat to ensure a good night’s rest.
Dining and Socializing
Enjoy meals in our strong, wind- and rain-proof dining tents. We provide camping tables with reusable cutlery and crockery, served and cleaned by our kitchen crew. We never use plastic disposable tableware.
We also provide comfortable, foldable chairs with back and arm support, so you can relax and socialize with your fellow hikers.
Camp Amenities and Management
Our camps include a hand-washing stand with hot water. Your camp managers arrive early to set up camp in the best spot and inspect all equipment to ensure a smooth trip. They also carry a repair kit for any quick fixes, though this is rarely needed.
Rest assured, all your meals throughout the entire climbing trip will be freshly prepared by our team. We’ve got your culinary needs covered from start to finish!
You’ll be in excellent hands with our experienced team on the mountain. Our well-trained and WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certified guides will lead the way, ensuring your safety and success. Our hardworking porters will manage all your gear, and our dedicated cook will prepare delicious meals, making your entire trip enjoyable and seamless.
For your safety on the mountain, an emergency oxygen tank is included and will be carried by the crew throughout your climb.
Your safety is our priority. We include daily medical check-ups by our WFR-certified guides, and our crew will carry a fully loaded medical kit to address any health concerns that may arise during the trek.
For your peace of mind, we provide 24/7 support via satellite phone throughout your entire trip, ensuring constant communication and emergency access no matter where you are on the mountain.
To ensure a completely hassle-free experience, all necessary park entrance fees, conservation fees, rescue fees, and government taxes are fully included in your package price. This means you won’t encounter any hidden costs for accessing the national park or climbing Kilimanjaro itself, allowing you to focus purely on your adventure.
You’ll have the full backing of our dedicated support team throughout your entire journey. From your initial inquiry until you safely return home, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
Don’t worry about your extra luggage while you’re on the mountain. We provide a safe and secure storage room for any bags you don’t need to take on your climb. You can leave your belongings with us with complete peace of mind, and they’ll be ready for you upon your return
We’re passionate about protecting Mount Kilimanjaro’s natural splendor. Our “Leave No Trace” approach goes beyond words: we take proactive steps by deploying our dedicated teams during the off-peak season to remove any litter from the mountain. Our company fully funds these vital clean-up initiatives, ensuring every adventure with us contributes to a truly responsible and sustainable environment.
By booking directly with us, you directly fuel positive change. Your adventure provides stable employment for guides, porters, and cooks from nearby villages. We also commit to sourcing our supplies locally, ensuring your trip’s economic benefits flow right into the hands of area businesses and families, cultivating true prosperity within the region.
Please note that international flights are not included in the package price. You will need to arrange your own flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which serves as your entry and exit point for this trip.
Please note that tips for your climbing crew are not included in the package price. Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by our hardworking team for their excellent service. We encourage you to read more about our suggested tipping structure on our website for detailed guidance.
Please be aware that visa fees are not included in your package. You will be responsible for obtaining the necessary visa for entry into Tanzania.
Should you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the visa application process, we highly recommend you read our detailed article on visa application procedures available on our website. It provides step-by-step guidance to assist you.
Please note that personal gear rentals (e.g., specialized clothing, trekking poles, etc.) are not included in your package. While you’ll need to bring your own personal climbing and trekking equipment, it’s worth noting that there are reliable rental shops here in Tanzania.
This means you don’t necessarily have to buy all the equipment, especially if you don’t anticipate needing it for future treks. Instead of carrying a heavy load of gear from home, you can opt to bring essential items and rent the rest upon your arrival, making your travel much lighter and more convenient.
Please note that our package pricing is based on shared accommodation (double occupancy). If you are a solo traveler and prefer a private room, a single supplement will apply and will be an additional charge to your package.
Please be advised that travel insurance is not included in your package. It is mandatory for all clients to arrange their own comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, evacuation, and other unforeseen circumstances.
The Rongai route offers a distinctive and appealing alternative for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, particularly for those who prioritize a less crowded experience. As the only route that approaches the mountain from the north, it provides a unique perspective and several key advantages.
The Rongai route is available as a six- or seven-day trek. The seven-day option is highly recommended as it provides a better acclimatization profile, which significantly increases the likelihood of a successful summit. The route is known for its steady, non-technical climb, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The northern approach also means the trail is generally drier, a significant benefit during the rainy seasons when other routes can be muddy and slick.
Following your Kilimanjaro climb, you have the opportunity to extend your adventure by adding a safari or a relaxing beach vacation. This allows you to experience the diverse beauty of Tanzania in a single, comprehensive trip. We can customize an itinerary that seamlessly transitions from the high-altitude challenge of the mountain to the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti or the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
Tell us your ideas, and we’ll craft a personalized travel itinerary within 3 hours.
Ready to book your trip? Just tell us your dates, interests, and budget, and we’ll send a custom, no-obligation itinerary straight to your inbox.
