8-Day Rongai Route Group Tour 2025–2026 | Climb Kilimanjaro from the North

The 8-Day Rongai Route group tour is one of the best ways to climb Kilimanjaro in 2025–2026. Starting from the remote northern slopes near the Kenyan border, this route provides a quieter and more wilderness-rich approach compared to the popular southern trails. Its gradual ascent profile combined with two extra acclimatization days makes it one of the safest and most successful routes to Uhuru Peak.

Trekkers on the Rongai Route enjoy changing landscapes, from farmland and pine forests, through heather and moorland, across high alpine deserts, and finally to the icy summit. Along the way, you’ll experience the dramatic beauty of Mawenzi Peak, the isolation of wide-open northern trails, and the shared excitement of climbing with a group of like-minded adventurers.

With expert guides, professional crew support, and carefully designed acclimatization, Macpace Tours & Safaris ensures your climb is both enjoyable and rewarding. The 8-Day Rongai Route is ideal for those who want to maximize their summit success while experiencing Kilimanjaro’s northern wilderness in a supportive group setting.

Detailed 8-Day Rongai Route Itinerary – Kilimanjaro Climb (2025–2026)

The Rongai Route is the only approach to Kilimanjaro from the northern side near the Kenyan border. Known for its quiet trails, gradual altitude profile, and diverse landscapes, it is considered one of the best routes for acclimatization and summit success. The 8-day itinerary allows for an even slower pace, giving climbers extra time to adapt to the altitude, a perfect choice for trekkers seeking both safety and scenery.

Day 0: Arrival in Moshi (900m–1,000m)

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in Moshi. After check-in, meet your professional guides for a comprehensive briefing, equipment check, and final climb preparations. Overnight stay in Moshi.

Day 1: Rongai Gate (1,950m) – Simba Camp (2,600m)

After breakfast, drive to Kilimanjaro’s remote Rongai Gate on the northern slopes. Begin your trek through farmland, pine forest, and rainforest with chances to see colobus monkeys and diverse birdlife. Arrive at Simba Camp, located on the edge of the moorland zone with beautiful mountain views.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~8 km

Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave (3,450m)

The trail climbs steadily through open moorland, offering wide views of Kibo’s glaciers and the rugged spires of Mawenzi Peak. Camp at Second Cave, a scenic spot with a clear night sky ideal for stargazing.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~9 km

Day 3: Second Cave – Kikelewa Camp (3,600m)

Continue across rolling grassy slopes and into the alpine desert zone. Vegetation becomes sparse, but giant lobelias and groundsels mark the dramatic change in landscape. Arrive at Kikelewa Camp, a small but scenic campsite nestled in a sheltered valley.

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

Day 4: Kikelewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330m)

A shorter but steeper climb takes you up to Mawenzi Tarn Hut, dramatically situated beneath the jagged cliffs of Mawenzi Peak. This is one of the most picturesque camps on Kilimanjaro, sitting beside a small alpine tarn (lake).

• Hiking time: 4–5 hours

• Distance: ~7 km

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)

Today is dedicated to altitude acclimatization. Join your guide for a short hike to higher elevations around the ridges of Mawenzi, before returning to camp for rest. This extra day significantly increases your chance of a safe and successful summit. Enjoy panoramic views across the Saddle towards Kibo Peak, and take time to relax or photograph the dramatic scenery.

Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn – Kibo Hut (4,700m)

Cross the high-altitude alpine desert known as the Saddle, a wide expanse between Mawenzi and Kibo. The stark, moon-like environment contrasts with earlier lush forests. Arrive at Kibo Hut, where you’ll rest, have an early dinner, and prepare for the midnight summit push.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~9 km

Day 7: Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak (5,895m) – Horombo Hut (3,720m)

Your summit attempt begins around midnight with headlamps lighting the trail. The steep climb leads to Gilman’s Point (5,681m) on the crater rim. From here, continue along the snow-dusted ridge to Uhuru Peak (5,895m), the highest point in Africa. Witness an unforgettable sunrise from the Roof of Africa, celebrate your achievement, and take photos before descending. Return to Kibo Hut for a short rest, then continue to Horombo Hut for overnight recovery.

• Hiking time: 12–14 hours

• Distance: ~21 km

Day 8: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate (1,860m) – Return to Moshi

Descend steadily through the moorland and rainforest zones, alive with bird calls and occasional sightings of monkeys. Arrive at Marangu Gate, where successful climbers receive their Kilimanjaro summit certificates. Your driver will then transfer you back to Moshi for a hot shower, dinner, and well-deserved relaxation.

• Hiking time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~18 km

✨ What the 8-Day Rongai Route offer?

• The most gradual and success-friendly climb of Rongai Route

• Quiet trails with a wilderness feel, far less crowded than southern routes

• Stunning acclimatization camp at Mawenzi Tarn Hut

• Gentle approach from the north with descent via the scenic Marangu side

Inclusions

✔ Professional guides, porters & cook
✔ All park entry fees, camping fees & rescue fees
✔ Meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✔ Drinking water & hot drinks on the mountain
✔ Two nights hotel accommodation in Moshi (before & after climb)
✔ Airport transfers (pick-up & drop-off)
✔ Group camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining tent & chairs)
✔ Emergency oxygen cylinder & first aid kit

Exclusions

✘ International airfare & Tanzania entry visa
✘ Personal travel insurance (required)
✘ Personal trekking gear (boots, sleeping bag, etc.)
✘ Tips for mountain crew
✘ Additional hotel nights or personal expenses

Why Choose the 8-Day Rongai Route Group Climb in 2025–2026?

The 8-Day Rongai Route is the safest and most rewarding way to climb Kilimanjaro via the northern approach. With two acclimatization days and a gradual ascent profile, it significantly increases your chance of reaching Uhuru Peak while keeping the journey enjoyable.

By booking with Macpace Tours & Safaris, you’ll not only enjoy affordable group rates but also climb with professional guides, a supportive team, and international trekkers who share your adventure spirit. From your first step in the forest to the triumphant sunrise at the summit, every moment will be unforgettable.

👉 Reserve your place now on the 8-Day Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Group Tour 2025–2026 and make your dream of climbing Africa’s highest peak a reality!