Rongai Gate — Simba Camp
- Elevation
- ~6,397 ft / 1,950 m → ~8,999 ft / 2,743 m
- Distance
- 8 km
- Hiking time
- 3–4 hours
Pine forest and open slopes on the north side.
High alpine terrain · Northern approach
Overview
The Rongai Route approaches the mountain from the northern side near the Kenyan border and is one of the quieter routes.
Highlights
- Less crowded trail
- Unique northern approach
- Beautiful wilderness scenery
- Good chance to see wildlife
Day-by-day itinerary
Quieter northern start near the Kenyan border; often drier underfoot. Descent typically uses the Marangu route to maximize safety and variety.
Simba — Kikelelwa Camp
- Elevation
- ~8,999 ft / 2,743 m → ~12,057 ft / 3,675 m
- Distance
- 10 km
- Hiking time
- 5–6 hours
Gain height toward Mawenzi views.
Kikelelwa — Mawenzi Tarn Camp
- Elevation
- ~12,057 ft / 3,675 m → ~14,137 ft / 4,310 m
- Distance
- 6 km
- Hiking time
- 4 hours
Short day below dramatic Mawenzi spires.
Mawenzi Tarn — Kibo Huts
- Elevation
- ~14,137 ft / 4,310 m → ~15,419 ft / 4,700 m
- Distance
- 8 km
- Hiking time
- 5–6 hours
Cross the “saddle” toward the summit cone.
Kibo — Uhuru Peak — Horombo Huts
- Elevation
- 19,341 ft / 5,895 m; sleep ~12,205 ft / 3,720 m
- Distance
- ~20+ km
- Hiking time
- 12–15 hours
Summit bid, then long descent to Horombo on the Marangu side.
Horombo — Mandara Huts
- Elevation
- 12,205 ft / 3,720 m → 8,858 ft / 2,700 m
- Distance
- 12 km
- Hiking time
- 4–5 hours
Continue down through moorland.
Mandara — Marangu Gate
- Elevation
- 8,858 ft / 2,700 m → 6,102 ft / 1,860 m
- Distance
- 8 km
- Hiking time
- 3–4 hours
Exit through the forest to the vehicle road.