Rongai starts on the remote northern side of the mountain, in the rain-shadow, which makes it the most reliable route to attempt during the long or short rains and one of the least crowded at any time. The gradient is kinder than the southern routes, the wilderness feel is strong, and there is a real chance of seeing colobus monkeys and even elephant sign in the lower forest.
Its one weakness is acclimatisation: the northern approach climbs fairly directly, so the seven-day version — with an extra night near Mawenzi Tarn to acclimatise — is strongly preferred over the six-day. Summit night is from Kibo Hut, and the descent is down the Marangu route on the other side of the mountain.
Drive to the Nalemuru (Rongai) gate on the northern side of Kilimanjaro and trek through farmland and pine forest to Simba Camp (about 2,650 m).
A steady climb through moorland with open views to Kibo, to Second Cave (about 3,450 m).
Leave the main trail and traverse toward the jagged Mawenzi peak, camping at Kikelelwa (about 3,600 m).
A short but steep day up to Mawenzi Tarn (about 4,300 m), in a cirque beneath Mawenzi's spires. Afternoon acclimatisation walk.
Cross the lunar "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo to Kibo Hut (about 4,700 m). Early dinner and rest before the summit.
Around midnight, climb to Gilman's Point (5,681 m) and on to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) for sunrise. Descend to Kibo, then continue down to Horombo Hut (3,720 m).
The final descent through moorland and forest to the Marangu gate, where you collect your summit certificate.
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