The broad summit of Kibo rising above golden grassland

Kilimanjaro route

Rongai Route

  • Rongai Gate (Nale Moru)
  • Mountain tents

The only route from the north, near the Kenyan border — drier, quieter and with a gentle gradient.

Rongai approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. The landscape is wilder and drier than on the southern routes, and the trail usually sees fewer climbers.

It is commonly climbed over six or seven days and descends via the Marangu route, giving you views of both sides of the mountain.

Route highlights

  • Quiet northern wilderness
  • Often drier during the rainy seasons
  • Views towards Kenya's plains
  • Descent through a different side of the mountain

Preparing for this route

A good option for steady walkers who prefer a gentler gradient. The summit night is still long and cold.

Itineraries are a starting point. Final routing, accommodation and pricing are confirmed in your personalised proposal.

Compare other routes

Machame Route

  • Machame Gate
  • Mountain tents

Kilimanjaro's most popular route: varied scenery, the famous Barranco Wall and a good ‘climb high, sleep low’ acclimatisation profile.

View route: Machame Route

Lemosho Route

  • Londorossi Gate (Lemosho trailhead)
  • Mountain tents

A scenic, quieter approach from the west, crossing the entire Shira Plateau — often chosen for its excellent acclimatisation.

View route: Lemosho Route

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