6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route
Overview
Tour Summary
Itinerary
Inclusions
Accommodation
Tour map
FAQ
Overview
Rongai Route is one of the lesser-known and quieter routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the only route that approaches the mountain from the north, and is considered to be one of the easier routes, with a gradual ascent and a gentle gradient. The Rongai Route typically takes around six to seven days to complete, giving climbers ample time to acclimatize to the altitude and increase their chances of summiting successfully.
The Rongai Route is a great option for those who are looking for a quieter and less crowded climb, as well as those who are looking for a longer and more gradual ascent. The route also offers stunning views of the mountain and the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular choice for photographers. However, climbers should still be aware of the potential dangers of climbing at high altitude, such as altitude sickness, and should take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Proper preparation, including appropriate clothing, equipment, and physical fitness, is also essential for a successful climb.
Tour Summary
Start: Arusha, Tanzania – End: Arusha, Tanzania
Destinations: Mount Kilimanjaro
Activity: Hiking
Physical level: Medium
Max group size: Any size
Itinerary
Day 1 Kilimanjaro Airport – Moshi
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will be met by ours driver who will transfer you to Moshi for accommodation at Keys Hotel / Alteza Hotel on full board basis. While you’re at the hotel our mountain climb professional guide will hold a briefing meeting to orients you to what you should anticipate during your summiting tour to Mt. Kilimanjaro (The roof of Africa).
Day 2 Moshi – Nalemoru Gate (1,990 m) – Simba Camp (2,625 m)
After breakfast our driver guide will drive you from the hotel to Nalemoru gate which is at the altitude of 1990m above the sea level. This gate is at North – western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Nalemoru Rongai gate is almost 175km from Moshi and it takes an average of 3 to 4 hours road driving. At the gate your professional guide will lead you the registration process which might take between 5 to 10 minutes depending on your number of climbers in a group. After all logistics and compliances are complete your adventure begins. Along the trekking path you might have an opportunity to see different wild animals’ e.g black and white colobus monkeys can often be seen. This day you will ascend for an approximate 3 to 4 hours before you, reach at Simba Camp. You will then take a rest here waiting for you evening hot meal, and later spend a night at the same camp.
Day 3 Simba Camp (2,625 m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m)
Wake up very early in the morning for cup of coffee with snacks or complete breakfast. After warming the stomach you start your ascent heading to Kikelewa Camp (3630m above the sea level). Today’s trek passes through the heather and moorland zones and the views of Mawenzi and the vast Kenyan steppes are nothing short of grand. Later in the afternoon you will break for lunch at the Second Cave (3,450 m). After lunch you will cross the undulating terrain to Kikelewa Camp. When you arrive at this beautiful camp, your mission of a day will be complete. You will spend a night here while enjoying a stunning view of the mountain. Hot evening meals and early morning breakfast will be served by your mountain crew.
Day 4 Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m)
This day you will ascend from Kikelewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn hut, It’s a day that requires more body fitness because the climbers may start experiencing difficulty in breathing due to increased altitude from day two. The typical senecien vegetation will soon disappear and the scenery will become more barren with the occasional rock formations as you keep ascending to Mawenzi Hut. In good weather you can enjoy the breath-taking views of the Kibo and Mawenzi summits as well as Kenya’s savannah grasslands. After passing a few more rock formations, you will arrive at the Mawenzi Hut. For many mountain climbers, it is the most atmospheric camp on the mountain. Dinner and overnight will be spent here while enjoying the wonderful view of Kibo and Mawenzi.
Day 5 Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m)
On a relatively easy path, today’s leg takes you over the Kibo Saddle. A lack of vegetation is characteristic for the landscape here as only a few types of grass and other plant species can survive in this dry area and thin air. Just before today’s destination is reached, one last rock passage has to be conquered. Finally you will arrive at the Kibo Hut, where you can relax and mentally prepare yourself for tomorrow’s summit stage. Early evening meal and early sleeping are crucial on this day because of the summiting day. Climbing crews are aware of this and so they will always endure everything is well organized.
Day 6 Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m)
This is a summiting day, the day you had dreamed for so long. While guided by the headlight, the trekking will begin at the midnight (around 00:00 h). After a 5 to 7 hours walking on frozen volcanic ash, you will reach at the Gillman’s Point (5,715 m) on the crater’s edge. While you’re at Gillman point you will be enjoying a stunning view of kibo and Mawenzi. From this point you will trek for another 1 to 2 hours to reach Uhuru Peak (5895m) and finally stand on “Africa’s Roof”. While you are at the roof of Africa you will have a moment to take pictures, and even short video under the assistance of your professional guide and other mountain crews. After all the events there, you will descend through the same route to Kibo Hut where you will be welcomed by smiling faces of your crews, serving you with warm / hot lunch. After a short break of lunch, the descent continues to the Horombo Hut. Here you will have enough time to relax, celebrate and memorize the life dream achievement to the Roof of Africa. Dinner and overnight will be at this wonderful hut.
Day 7 Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Moshi
This is the last day in the bush of Mount Kilimanjaro. You will wake up very early in the morning for a cup of coffee with snacks or breakfast. Then trekking (Descending) for approximately 5 to 6 hours before you reaches at Marangu gate at the early afternoon. At the gate you will have a short moment to celebrate and congratulating each other, shaking hands, receiving your certificates of achievements or Merit before you say goodbye to your mountain crews.
After all these our driver will be standby to transfer you back to Keys Hotel / Alteza Moshi Hotel. Here you can take a warm, relaxing, hot shower and celebrating your achievement with a full memory of Uhuru Peak. Accommodation will be on full board basis.
Day 8 Moshi – Kilimanjaro Airport
On Day 8, after breakfast, lightly town tour to gift shops, later get hot lunch, then you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Airport to catch up your departure flight. If you would like to extend your stay in Tanzania, you have the option to arrange a 2-3 days wildlife safari or relax at the Beach of Indian Ocean.
Inclusions
Price Includes
- Kilimanjaro trekking according to the itinerary
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Mountain crew (cook & porters)
- Overnight stays in hotels and mountain tents
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc.)
- Portable toilet and toilet tent
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Drinking water
- All national park fees
- All mentioned transfers
Price Excludes
- Sleeping bag
- Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
This is the end of your Itinerary. I believe you will leave Tanzania with a full memory of unforgettable Kilimanjaro (the roof of Africa) Summiting.
Accommodation
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens in case of emergency on the mountain?
In the event of an emergency during the Kilimanjaro climb, the mountain rescue services in Tanzania are not comparable to those found in the European Alps. If you cannot walk, you will either be carried or transported on a wheeled stretcher, which is an unpleasant experience. It is important to only push yourself as far as your body allows to prevent emergencies. Helicopters are not often deployed due to altitude limitations. It is recommended to have adequate health insurance coverage for medical expenses, including rescue and repatriation costs.
Is tipping required for the mountain crew?
Tipping the mountain crew is a common practice, and gratuities are a large portion of the crew’s income, so they are highly appreciated. Recommended tipping amounts per group, not per person, are provided by the tour provider.
How can I cope with altitude sickness during the climb?
Almost everyone climbing Kilimanjaro will be affected by altitude sickness in some way. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and nausea. It is essential to replace lost body fluids by drinking enough water and taking magnesium to prevent muscle cramps. Mild symptoms allow continuing the hike, but severe altitude sickness is a serious matter and can be life-threatening. It is vital to bear in mind that a medical descent may be required.
What meals will be provided during the climb?
Meals are included in the itinerary. For breakfast, there is a choice of fruit, scrambled eggs, porridge, toast, jam, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Lunch is provided in a lunch box containing sandwiches, boiled eggs, chicken, etc. Dinner consists of soup and bread followed by meat or poultry with starch (i.e., chips, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice) and vegetables, topped off with dessert in the form of fresh fruit, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, and milk. Special dietary requirements or food allergies can be catered with advanced notification.
How big is the group?
This is a private tour, and there won’t be any other climbers joining the group. The group will only consist of the people who chose to travel together and their mountain crew.
Is there an age limitation for this climb?
Yes, there is an age limitation for this climb. Climbers must be at least 18 years old to participate. This is to ensure that climbers have the necessary physical and mental maturity to undertake the climb safely and responsibly.
Can I bring my own climbing gear?
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own climbing gear. However, it must meet our safety requirements and pass a safety inspection before use. If you are unsure whether your gear meets our safety standards, we recommend renting equipment from our facility.
Do I need prior climbing experience?
Prior climbing experience is not required, but it is recommended. Our climb is designed to be accessible to climbers of all skill levels, but it can be physically demanding. We recommend that you are in good physical shape and have some familiarity with climbing techniques.
Is there a weight limit for climbers?
Yes, there is a weight limit for climbers. Climbers must weigh between 100 and 250 pounds to participate. This is to ensure that our safety equipment can support your weight and that you can physically handle the demands of the climb.
What happens in case of inclement weather?
In the event of inclement weather, we may need to postpone or cancel the climb for safety reasons. We will do our best to notify you as soon as possible if this occurs and work with you to reschedule your climb for a later date.