7 Days Rongai Route
7 days—Mount Kilimanjaro
From
$1740 USD
pp
Safari summary
Less crowded because of its remote location the route offers trekkers a unique wilderness experience where it is possible to see large wildlife like antelope, elephant and buffalo. As there is typically less moisture on this side of the mountain you are less likely to encounter rain and have more unclouded views of the peak. While it is flatter, it does not give the climb high sleep low option and therefore recommended to select more days for acclimatization.
The Rongai route is one of the easier routes up Kilimanjaro. Rongai is the only route to approach Kilimanjaro from the north and the descent is via the Marangu Route.Summit night from Kibo Hut is steep and follows the same path taken by the Marangu route which passes Gilman’s Point to Uhuru Peak.
There are several variations; the one described is a longer route taking in Mawenzi Tarn.
Duration: 5 or 6 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Very good
Traffic: Low
About this tour
Tour type | Custom, tailor-made, private | |
Main focus | Hiking | trekking | |
Activity level | Strenuous activity | |
Best months | All months | |
Countries | ||
Parks |
Fine details
Safari highlights
- Hiking | trekking
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- Meals
- Park fees
- Private vehicle and driver
What’s not included?
- Alcoholic beverages
- Internal flights
- International flights
- Laundry
- Tips and gratuities
- Visas
Itinerary
DAY 1: NALE MURU GATE–SIMBA CAMP:
Departing from Moshi a 4-5 hour drive will take you through the coffee plantations and Village of Nale Muru to the Kilimanjaro National Park Gate. We will patiently wait for our permits to be issued while watching the hustle and bustle of operations as many crews prepare for the journey ahead Enjoy the beautiful wooded scenery, and windy trails while your guide tells you about the local flora and fauna and natural wildlife you are likely to see.
SIMBA CAMP
DAY 2: SIMBA CAMP–SECOND CAVE CAM
Elevation: 2635m/8645ft to 3487m/11440ft Altitude gained: 852m After a good night sleep and a hearty breakfast we continue along moorland terrain on a consistent ascending path. You will catch some terrific views of Kibo and get your first glimpse of the ice fields on the Eastern crater rim. The small shrubs of the moorland became thinner as you approve the Second Cave. Temperatures begin to drop.
SECOND CAVE CAMP
DAY 3: SECOND CAVE CAMP–KIKELEWA
Elevation: 3487m/11,440ft to 3675m/12057ft Altitude gained: 188m After breakfast and packing, you continue your stead ascent across the Moorland towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. This relatively short hiking day brings you closer to the Easter ice fields, continually drawing your attention to their beauty. Pay attention to your body and keep your guide informed of any signs of altitude sickness.
KIKELEWA CAMP
Day 4 : Kikelewa Camp-Mawenzi Camp
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb views. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatisation. If you are spending an extra day on the mountain, you will camp for two nights here. You can hike up and around Mawenzi for your acclimatisation hike.
MAWENZI TARN
DAY 5: MAWENZI TARN–KIBO HUT: 8.9
Elevation: 4302m/14,114ft to 4714m/15,466ft Altitude gained: 412m Cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent on Summit Night
KIBO HUT
DAY 6: KIBO HUTS – SUMMIT: 4KM
We continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers trying to stay warm and focused of the amazing sense of accomplishment that lies ahead. With a switchback motion in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. You will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise during your short rest here. Faster hikers may view the sunrise from the summit. From here on your remaining 1 hour ascent to Uhuru Peak.
HOROMBO HUTS
DAY 7: HOROMBO HUTS–MARANGU GATE
After breakfast and a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation and team bonding with your crew it’s time to say goodbye. We continue the descent down stopping at the Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here. You return back to the Marangu Park Gate and receive your summit certificates. From the gate, a vehicle will meet you to drive you back to your hotel in Arusha. Enjoy a long over due hot shower, dinner and celebrations!
Lush Garden Hotel
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