ITENERARY:
To the north, the lower levels of Kilimanjaro are surrounded by a dense blanket of rusty gold, the Kenyan savannah. The spectacular landscapes of the Masaai are home to elephants, antelopes and shimmering black buffalo silhouettes, while colorful swarms of East Africa's unique birdlife rise into the blue sky. The Rongai Route is the quiet tour to the summit and travels through many different climates. The magical rainforest is the beating heart of the mountain. Let yourself be inspired by changing landscapes and legendary views. During the rainy season, due to the minimal precipitation that the north receives, this route is the optimal route and allows for pleasant, drier conditions.
1st day: Kilimanjaro airport to Moshi
We pick you up from the airport. From there you will be taken to the hotel for your Kilimanjaro orientation. Your guide will provide you with final information and will check your trekking equipment.
Day 2: Rongai Gate / Nalemoru (1950m) to Simba Camp (2650m) (First Cave Camp)
Altitude gain: 700m
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 6.5km
In the morning we will drive you from your hotel to Marangu Gate. After parking, continue your journey to Nalemoru Gate. The drive to the gate is peppered with amazing landscapes and small villages. Upon arrival, you will be served an appetizingly warm lunch. From here you continue your journey on foot. The trail amidst the golden corn fields leads you to the entrance of the mystical rainforest. Fallen leaves will crackle under your feet as you gaze at the emerald-green canopy. The knotted tree branches serve the blue monkeys as a trapeze for their daredevil jumps. An orchestra of birdsong floats in the air. You can meet the striking black and white colobus monkey and the adorable baby-bush. After a 3-4 hour hike you will arrive at the Simba Camp (2650m),
Day 3: Simba Camp (2650m) to Second Caves Camp (3150m)
Height gain: 500m
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 4km
After a delicious breakfast, head towards the looming Kibo Peak. You walk through the gently brown moorland and through the heather vegetation zone. The dry plains are dotted with gray desert plants and the heather is surrounded by whimsical, giant trees. A warm lunch is served at the second Caves Camp (3150m / 3-4 hours). You have the opportunity to take a short hike for acclimatization towards the Third Cave. With good luck, you will see the jagged crown of the Mawenzi peak on the trip. The encounter with animals, such as buffalo or jackals is conceivable. But do not worry your guide is always with you!
Day 4: Second Cave Camp (3150m) to Kikelewa Caves (3600m)
Height gain: 450m
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 5km
Your walk to Kibo Peak will continue after breakfast. You walk through an exposed area of moor and heather until you reach the Kikelewa Caves Camp. Wrapped in mist, Kibo Peak presents itself to you. In this setting, enjoy your lunch and set up the camp.
Day 5: Kikelewa Caves (3600m) to Mawenzi Tarn (4330m)
Altitude gain: 370m
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Distance: 6km
Your destination for the day is Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,330m). Only the singing of the birds pervades the silence, while the clouds slowly glide like airy pillows through the sky. The arid fauna and flora of the moor is temporarily broken as you travel through an area of the wilderness. Upon reaching the Mawenzi Tarn Hut, you can expect the pleasant flavors of a delicious hot lunch. We recommend short trips for acclimatization.
Day 6: Mawenzi Tarn Hut to Kibo Hut (4700m)
Altitude gain: 370m
Hiking time: 4-5 hours
Distance: 9km
The trail gradually develops into a steep-stony path the further you move away from the Mawenzi Tarn Hut. You hike along "The Saddle", a lava stone ridge in the middle of Mawenzi and Kibo Peak.The flat landscape offers breathtaking views of the high peaks of Kilimanjaro.A mouth-watering, warm meal is served on arrival at Kibo Hut (4703m). Let the day fade away and go to bed at times to be well rested for the midnight climb to the summit.
Day 7: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Horombo Hut (3700m)
Altitude gain: 1195m Altitude
loss: 2195m
Hiking time: 6-8 hours (ascent, 5-6 hours (descent)
Distance: 5km (ascent), 15km (descent)
Around midnight you set off on the most demanding day of the entire hike. Until Sue reaches the Hans Meyer Cave, the path is steep and one-lane. The rocky path is lined with wildflowers and leads you to Gillman's Point (5685m). This is the hardest part of the entire hike. Gillman's Point means that the last two hours of ascent to Uhuru Peak (5895m) have begun. With the arrival of the roof of Africa the sun announces a new day and washes the ice fields of the surrounding glaciers in golden splendor. You will admire this unique view over the clouds before descending to the Kibo Hut, where you have earned a break. The Horombo huts are our last destination for the day and here you will fall into a well deserved sleep.
Day 8: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1800m) to Moshi
Height loss: 1900m
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 20km
After enjoying an appetizing breakfast, hike past the Mandara Hut through the beautiful rainforest to the Marangu Gate. Your crew will solemnly hand over your certificate for the completion of the 9-day Rongai Route. Upon arrival in Moshi you will find a warm shower and fresh clothes as well as one or two Kilimanjaro beers to celebrate your successful Kilimanjaro ascent.
Day 9: Moshi to Kilimanjaro airport
A driver will take you to Kilimanjaro airport. Now it's time to say goodbye to Tanzania and its friendly inhabitants. If you have also decided to go on a safari , then start your second adventure, which we are happy to plan.
Our Package Includes
- Transport from/to park gate & airport transfer
- Pre & post climb accommodation (B&B) in Moshi
- Park, rescue and hut accommodation fees
- Professional English speaking guide(s); porters & cook
- 6 breakfasts; 5 lunches; 4 dinners
- Water; tea and coffee with meals
Not Included
- Flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa and passport fees
- Increases in park fees where applicable
- Personal equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Gratuities / tips for guide(s), porters & cook
- Soda and Alcoholic beverages
Price of total tour package including a double room USD 2300 PP
Price of total tour package including a single room USD 2300 PP
Trusted Partner