Rongai Route
Trekking distance is 79km
Great for: avoiding crowds, gradual trail profile, high summit success rate, drier weather
Cons: less scenic, drier landscapes
Since this route starts on the Northern side of the mountain is seen as an easy route to the summit, due to its gradual ascent profile. This area is also better during the rain season, so you avoid the muddy trails through the rainforest.
The trek to the summit is done at night – starting at midnight from either Kibo Hut or School Hut which is positioned a bit higher up the mountain.
Day 1: Nale Muru – Simba Camp
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: 2834m
Day 2: Simba Camp – Second Cave
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Overnight Altitude: 3444m
Day 3: Second Cave – Third Cave
Hiking: 3-4 hours
Overnight Altitude: 3600m
Day 4: Third Cave – Mawenzi Tarn Hut
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: 4315m
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Hut – Kibo Huts
Hiking: 6-8 hours
Overnight Altitude: 4703m
Day 6: Kibo Huts – Gilman’s Point – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Huts
Hiking: 4-5 hours
Overnight Altitude: 3734m
Day 7: Horombo Huts – Marangu Gate – Arusha
Hiking: 5-7 hours
Overnight Altitude: 561m