Phone: +255784661147 Email: info@africagreatwalks.com
RONGAI ROUTE (6 DAYS 5 NIGHTS TREK)
The Rongai route is easy and gradual hiking for the beginning of the ascent but hiking days get longer. It is the only route that approaches the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Easy and gradual trekking for the beginning of the ascent but climbing hours are longer. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, Rongai has low traffic. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the crowded Marangu route and for those who would like a more remote hike. The route joins the Marangu route at Kibo Hut for the summit ascent and descent and the minimum number of days required for this route is six days, but mostly seven days are recommended. The scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes it by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining the Marangu route at Kibo camp. This route descends the Marangu route and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.
ARRIVAL DAY
You will be greeted on arrival by our friendly AFRICA GREATWALKS team who will transfer you to your hotel in either Moshi or Arusha. After meals or refreshments, mountain climbing briefing and climbing equipment inspection. Overnight at your Hotel on a bed and breakfast basis.
Detailed Trekking Itinerary :
DAY 1: RONGAI GATE TO THE FIRST CAVE
Drive from Arusha to Marangu Gate for the necessary registration formalities and then transferred to Rongai, which should take about 1.5 hours. The climb starts at the village of Nale Moru (1,950 m.) through fields of maize and potatoes before entering the pine forest. The climb is consistently and gently through an attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. Reaching the first Campsite, at the edge of the moorland zone (2,600m.), gives you extensive views over the Kenyan plains. (7km, 3 – 4 hrs Trekking).
DAY 2: FIRST CAVE TO THE KIKELETWA CAVES
After breakfast, start with steady walk ascent up to the ‘Second Cave’ (3,450 m.). Start seeing Kibo Peak and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim. Leave the main trail and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path toward the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley near Kikelewa Caves (3.600 m.) (15km, 5 -7 hrs of trekking).
DAY 3: MAWENZI TARN CAMP
Trailing start with a short but steep climb up grassy slopes, which are rewarded with superb circular views and a tangible sense of wilderness, before reaching Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m.), for Camping. Spend the rest of the day resting or exploring the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization (10km, 5-7 hrs. of trekking).
DAY 4: KIBO CAMPSITE/ SCHOOL CAMPSITE
Early morning proceeds with trekking crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach School Campsite at the foot of the Kibo crater wall. (8km, 6 – 7 hrs of trekking). Spend remainder of the day resting and preparation for the final ascent.
DAY 5: TREK TO UHURU PEAK 5895M TO HOROMBO
The last day will be a really early beginning for the summit, normally 01:00 am, trailing through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point, take a rest for a short while before continuing to the Uhuru Peak (which might take 3 hours) After relaxing, watching the sunrise and taking memorable pictures, start descending to the Horombo Hut and spend overnight there.
DAY 6: HOROMBO TO THE MOSHI
After breakfast descend to Marangu Gate, meet the driver, and return to the Hotel for lunch and a day at leisure and an evening transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport
OR Overnight and Extension for Wildlife Tours and Safari or Zanzibar Beach Holidays
- Pick up at International Airport and transfer to the Hotel;
- Professional mountain crew. Each participant will be provided with a porter (who can carry up to 15 kg of personal baggage);
- Fair wages for the mountain crew as approved by the Kilimanjaro National Park Authority (KINAPA), Kilimanjaro Association of Tour Operators (KIATO)
- Kilimanjaro National Park permits.
- Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees
- Camping/hut fees
- 3 meals daily while on the mountain. The menu includes different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian options are available upon request
- Modern tents
- First aid kit
- Warm and comfortable sleeping pads (2 inches thick)
- Portable flush toilets can be provided for free upon clients request
- Group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery and cutlery)
- Accommodation after the climb
- International certificates for a successful ascent
- Return transfer to Kilimanjaro airport.
- Flights tickets
- Visa fee
- Personal gear rental
- Items of a personal nature
- Laundry services
- Tips for the mountain
The perfect way to end your trekking and hiking in Tanzania is by making an add on tour program to Wildlife National Parks for animal viewing in their natural habitat, Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trails and cultural visits cannot be missed while visiting our Country. We can arrange transport and accommodation for a broad range of lodges, villas and hotels in the best resorts.
RATES: Budget, Semi-Luxury (Midrange), Luxury and VIP.