African Trails Limited :: Kilimanjaro

Other Routes:
Marangu / Machame / Rongai / Shira /Umbwe /Lemosho

Kilimanjaro: Rongai

Price:

$1200/person ( Minimum 4 People )
Group prices depend on the number of people (pax)
+ $200 transportation fee

Extra day on the mountain: $120/person

Low Season: $50 off April 1 - June 15 and November

Duration:

6 days hiking

The Rongai Route is easier and more scenic than the Marangu or Machame routes, and the success rate is very high. All climbers sleep in tents (tents are included) and meals are served in a dinner tent or on a blanket outside.

The route starts on the north side of the mountain just south of the Kenyan border, and is one of the least travelled routes. The descent is down the Marangu Route on the south side of the mountain, so climbers see the mountain from many view points.

MOSHI

Book into the Impala Hotel in Moshi for overnight.

DAY 1 -- To Rongai Cave

1950m to 2600m
6400ft to 8500ft
About 4 hours

After completing the necessary registration formalities at Marangu National Park gate, transfer by Land Rover to Rongai (about 1.5 hours). The climb begins from the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru (1,950 m.) on a small path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2,600 m.) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.

DAY 2 -- To Kikelewa (Second) Cave

2600m to 3600m
8500ft to 11,800ft
About 7 hours

The morning walk is a steady ascent up to the 'Second Cave' (3,450 m.) with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim. After lunch, leave the main trail and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. The campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios near Kikelewa Caves (3.600 m.)

DAY 3 -- To Mawenzi Tarn

3600m to 4330m
11,800ft to 14,200ft
About 4 hours

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn (4,330 m.), spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization.

DAY 4 -- To School Camp

4330m to 4750m
14,200ft to 15,600ft
About 5 hours

Cross the lunar desert of the 'Saddle' between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach School campsite (4,750 m.) at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night!

DAY 5 -- To Summit and Horombo Hut

4750m to 5895m
(and down to 3720m)
15,600ft to 19,300ft
(and down to 12,200ft)
About 11 hours

Begin the final, and by far the steepest and most demanding, part of the climb by torchlight around 1 a.m. Proceed very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman's Point (5,685 m.) Rest there for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (5,896 m.), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo (4,700 m.) is surprisingly fast and, after some refreshment, continue the descent to reach the final campsite at Horombo (3,720 m.).

DAY 6 -- To Moshi

Elevation (m): 3720m to 1700m

Elevation (ft): 12,200ft to 5500ft

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

After breakfast, A steady descent takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut (2,700m.), the first stopping place at the Marangu route. Continue descending through lovely lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1,830 m.). At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy).

A vehicle will meet you at Marangu village to drive you back to the Springlands Hotel in Moshi. Don't forget to tip your guides and porters. It is time for celebration!

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