6 Days Trekking Rongai Route

From

$1690.00

Duration

6 days

Route Summary

The Rongai Route is famed for its picturesque views surpassing those of the Marangu Route and its moderate difficulty compared to the Machame Route, boasting a notably high success rate. Unlike the Marangu Route, where accommodation is provided in huts, the Rongai offers tented lodging (inclusive of tents) with porters setting up your shelter. Meals are typically served in a dedicated dining tent or al fresco on a spread-out blanket. This route commences on the northern slopes of the mountain, just below the Kenyan border, and is among the less frequented paths to the summit.

Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arusha | Moshi - Rongai Gate to Simba Camp

Following an early breakfast, embark on a journey to the Rongai Gate situated near the border with Kenya. Upon arrival, complete the registration process at the gate and commence your ascent towards Uhuru Peak, the pinnacle of Africa. Traverse through forests on the initial day, where opportunities to encounter wildlife abound. Pause for lunch along the trail before progressing to the first campsite. The Rongai Route takes the less forested northern approach up the mountain.

Known for its remoteness, the Rongai Route is favoured for its sparse crowds, albeit due to the lengthy drive to the gate. With its path winding through the forest zone, the Rongai trail offers the finest chances of wildlife sightings. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the campsite.

Overnight: Simba Camp

Meals: Lunch & Dinner included

Day 2: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Camp

During the two-day hike through Kilimanjaro's moorland via the Rongai route, hikers encounter a relatively short and steep path, reducing the overall hiking time while ascending the majestic Kilimanjaro. Along this route, one can behold the awe-inspiring sight of Mawenzi Peak ahead and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Tanzanian plains.

Overnight: Kikelewa Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 3: Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Following an early breakfast, embark on your trek towards Mawenzi Tarn Camp, nestled at the base of Mawenzi Volcano, Kilimanjaro's second summit. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and a two-hour respite. Then, engage in an acclimatization hike towards Mawenzi Volcano, ascending 200 meters in altitude. Afterward, descend back to Mawenzi Tarn Camp for dinner in the evening.

Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Camp

Today will be dedicated to trekking towards Kibo Summit Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,700 meters. The terrain will undergo a notable transformation, transitioning into a rocky semi-desert landscape. The trek itself is not overly challenging; it's crucial to maintain a suitable pace to conserve energy for the final ascent to Kilimanjaro's summit. Upon reaching the camp, it's advisable to prioritize rest, minimize strenuous activity, and stay hydrated, as the night ahead will entail the ascent to Uhuru Peak, towering at 5,895 meters.

Overnight: Kibo Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 5: Trekking to Uhuru Peak and Descend to Horombo Camp

You will leave School Hut Camp, situated at an elevation of 4,715 m, during the night. The journey to Uhuru Peak, standing at 5,895 m, exerts more pressure on your cardiovascular system than your muscles due to the high altitude, despite the climb being moderately graded. Each pair of climbers will be accompanied by a guide who will continuously assess their fitness during this leg of the ascent. Upon reaching the summit, climbers may opt to take a stroll on the nearest glacier. The descent to Horombo Camp, at 3,720 m, will include a 2-hour break at Kibo Camp. It is crucial to remember that 9 out of 10 climbing accidents occur during the descent, so be mindful of your footing!

Overnight: Horombo Camp

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Day 7: Descend to Marangu Gate - Moshi | Arusha

Today, you'll journey down from the dry alpine desert, passing through the well-known moorland and entering the forest. The path will present a stark contrast to your initial day's experience, as you'll now traverse a rainforest terrain. Be ready for potential wet and muddy conditions on the final stretch of the trail. Keep a lookout for monkeys among the trees. Upon receiving your summit certificate at Marangu Gate, your driver will be ready to take you back to your hotel for a celebratory return.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included

Included

Airport pick-up and dropoff
Mountain sleeping tent
Mess tents with tables and chairs
Certified, experienced, English-speaking mountain guides:
Climbing permits
All hot Meals are prepared by our cook
Guides, Porters, and Cook Salaries
Enough porters to carry your luggage
Safety Equipment
Emergency Oxygen
Mineral water
Emergency rescue fees
Personal Summit Certificate

Excluded

Insurance
International | Local flights
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Personal items (Souvenirs, Toiletries)
Travel Insurance | Visa
Alcoholic drinks
Laundry services
Tipping on Kilimanjaro from the trekking group (not per climber): Guides: $20/day/guide, Cook: $15/day, Porter: $10/day/porter NB: Our Guides, cooks, and Porters are always satisfied with the Thanksgiving (tip) you have and not beyond your ability.