The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. 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, for those who would like a more remote hike, and for those who are climbing during the rainy season (the north side receives less precipitation).
The minimum number of days required for this route is six days, and seven days are recommended.
DAY 1: Nale Moru Village – First Cave
After breakfast, at 9am, meet the climbing team (guides, porters) and transfer to Marangu Gate (120km) reaching an altitude of 1600masl. After permit formalities, transfer (approximately 2 hours) to the Rongai trailhead. Meet your guide and porters before you begin your hike from the Nale Moru village. The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then climbs gently through a forest. The trail is not at all steep, but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country. The first night’s camp is at First Cave, at about 2,600 metres. There is a toilet and a wooden table with benches, but no hut. Water can be found just down the trail below First Cave.
DAY 2: First Cave – Second Cave – Kikelwa Cave
The trail continues up towards Kibo, passing Second Cave (3450m) en-route, and reaching Kikelwa Cave at about 3600 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain! Water is in the obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find some. Overnight at 3rd Cave camp (Kikelwa Caves).
DAY 3: Kikelwa Caves – Mawenzi
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area.
DAY 4: Mawenzi – Kibo
Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo Camp.
DAY 5: Kibo – Hans Meyer Cave – Gillman’s point – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
You will rise around 23h30, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. This is where the going really gets tough. The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), also a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s point (5 681m), which is located on the crater rim. This section is very steep with a lot of stone scree, requiring a great physical and mental effort. This is probably the most demanding section of the entire route. Do the Kili shuffle and move slowly. From Gillman’s Point you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Total exhilaration and satisfaction – you made it. Weather conditions on the summit will determine how long you can spend, taking photographs, before the 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut. After a short rest you gather all your gear for the ascent and head down to Horombo hut (3 hours) where you will overnight. The return to Horombo hut will seem surprisingly fast compared to the ascent. The total time spent walking on this day is around 14 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day. Later in the evening you enjoy your last dinner (with soft drinks and beer for sale at the camp office) on the mountain and well-earned sleep, filled with memories and stirring emotions.
DAY 6: Horombo Hut – Marangu Gate
After breakfast, at 7am, with box lunch, take a walk down to Marangu gate.
1. This tour starts and ends in Kilimanjaro.
2. Fly to/from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO - Check price) near Moshi.
3. A transfer from and back to the airport (or hotel) can be arranged for an extra cost.
4. Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost.
Porterage
Rescue fee
Park fees
(For non-residents)
All activities
(Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation
(Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation
(Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Meals
Drinks
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