Rongai Route
From Rongai Gate (north) · 7 days
Moderate Acclimatisation 3/5
The only route that approaches from the north, close to the Kenyan border. It is drier and quieter than the southern routes, which makes it a good pick in the shoulder months, and the gradient is gentler. The trade-off is a long transfer to the trailhead and a steeper, rockier summit push from Kibo Hut.
- Gate
- Rongai Gate (north)
- Duration
- 7 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Acclimatisation
- 3 / 5
- Best season
- Jun-Oct and Dec-Feb
Packing list
12 items the route demands
- Four-season sleeping bag rated to -15C
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Base layer, fleece and insulated jacket
- Waterproof shell jacket and over-trousers
- Thermal leggings for the summit night
- Trekking boots plus camp shoes
- Warm hat, balaclava and insulated gloves
- Sun hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
- Head torch with spare batteries
- Three litres of water capacity
- Water purification tablets
- Trekking poles, day pack and personal first-aid kit
Permit notes
Park fees are payable per day and must be arranged through a licensed operator before arrival; there is no ticket office at the remote northern gate for walk-ins. Carry your passport and permit for ranger checks. Budget separately for crew tips.