8 Days Rongai Route
The Rongai route, renowned for its stunning vistas, guides trekkers to Kibo through the less-traveled, arid northeastern region of Kilimanjaro. Originating near the Kenyan border, this path presents awe-inspiring panoramas of the African savannah and the rugged Mawenzi. Upon passing Mawenzi Tarn Camp, hikers encounter Kilimanjaro National Park’s solitary mountain lake. The trail meanders through well-established terrain, spanning fir forests, rainforests, and alpine deserts. Despite its overall ease, certain rockier segments in the summit area may present more challenge. The descent mirrors the Marangu route, navigating lush green rainforests on meticulously maintained paths. Accommodation throughout the climb necessitates overnight stays in mountain tents.
Start: Arusha, Tanzania
End: Arusha, Tanzania
Destinations: Mount Kilimanjaro
Theme: Hiking
Age Requirement: 10 Years minimum
Physical level: Medium
Max group size: Any size
| Destination |
Longai Gate, Simba Gate, Kikelewa Cave, Mawenzi, Kibo Hut, Uhuru Peak & Marangu Gate
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| Included |
- 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
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| Excluded |
- Sleeping bag
- Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
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Details
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, our designated transfer driver will warmly welcome you and provide transportation to a Hotel and Spa in Arusha. The day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Whether you prefer a relaxing day by the lodge pool or to venture out and explore the town of Arusha, the choice is entirely yours. Later in the afternoon, our dedicated team will brief you on the details and expectations of your upcoming trek, ensuring you're well-prepared and informed.
Following breakfast, a scenic 3 to 4-hour drive around the northwest side of Mount Kilimanjaro will bring you to the Nalemoru Gate. After completing the registration process and organizing the distribution of your luggage among the porters, your trek commences. The trail leads through mountain farmers' fields and pine forests before entering the sparser mountain forest zone, often hosting sights of black and white colobus monkeys. Following an approximate 3 to 4-hour hike, you'll reach the Simba Camp where you'll spend the night. Your day includes Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
During today's trek, you will traverse through the heather and moorland zones, offering spectacular vistas of Mawenzi and the expansive Kenyan steppes. After lunch at the Second Cave (3,450 m), you'll navigate the undulating terrain towards Kikelewa Camp. This camp offers stunning views and a tranquil ambiance, providing a perfect space to relax after a challenging day's climb. The day's meals include Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
The distinctive senecien vegetation will gradually diminish, giving way to a more barren landscape adorned with occasional rock formations. In favorable weather, you'll behold breathtaking views of the Kibo and Mawenzi summits, along with Kenya's expansive savannah grasslands. As you pass more rock formations, your trek will lead you to the Mawenzi Hut, often considered the most atmospheric camp on the mountain. Meals provided for the day include Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Today’s journey traverses a relatively easy path across the Kibo Saddle. The landscape here is characterized by a lack of vegetation, with only a few resilient grass and plant species that can thrive in this arid environment and thin air. Prior to reaching today’s destination, there is a final rocky passage to conquer. Eventually, you'll arrive at the Kibo Hut, providing an opportunity to relax and mentally prepare for tomorrow’s summit stage. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner will be provided.
The climb begins around 00:00 h and entails a 5 to 7-hour walk on frozen volcanic ash until you reach Gillman’s Point (5,715 m) at the crater’s edge. Afterward, another 1 to 2-hour trek will lead you to Uhuru Peak, the summit and the highest point in Africa. The descent on the now thawed lava ash follows almost the same route, and you'll arrive at the Kibo Hut by late morning. A warm meal will be served, and after a well-deserved break, the descent continues to the Horombo Hut. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner will be provided.
After a 5 to 6-hour trek, you'll have managed the easy descent and will arrive back at the Marangu Gate by early afternoon. Bid farewell to your mountain crew, and a short transfer will bring you back to the Tulia Boutique Hotel and Spa. There, you can enjoy a warm and relaxing shower and celebrate your achievement. Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner will be provided.
On this day, the AfroKlan Expeditions Team will arrange a private transfer for your departure to either Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport. This is for your flight back home or if you're flying to Zanzibar Island.
