Overview
Conquer Kilimanjaro's Untamed Beauty: 6-Day Rongai Route Adventure
Embark on a Serene Summit: The Rongai Route to Kilimanjaro
A Wilderness Adventure
The Rongai Route, a less-traveled path to the summit of Africa's highest peak, offers a unique wilderness experience. Its remote location means fewer crowds, allowing you to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the mountain. As you ascend, keep an eye out for remarkable wildlife such as antelope, elephant, and buffalo, a rare treat for trekkers.
Clear Skies and Steady Ascent
The Rongai Route's northern approach provides a drier climate, reducing the likelihood of rain and offering clearer views of the majestic peak. While the route is generally less steep than others, it doesn't offer the "high sleep, low walk" acclimatization strategy. Therefore, we recommend allocating more days to your itinerary for optimal acclimatization.
A Classic Summit Night
The final push to the summit from Kibo Hut is a challenging but rewarding experience. You'll follow the same path as the Marangu Route, ascending through Gilman's Point to Uhuru Peak.
Route Variations
Several variations of the Rongai Route exist. One popular option includes a longer route that takes you to Mawenzi Tarn, offering stunning views of the mountain's second-highest peak.
Trip Highlights:
Remote and Serene: Fewer crowds and a tranquil atmosphere
Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife
Clear Skies: Reduced rainfall and stunning mountain vistas
Classic Summit Night: A challenging but rewarding final push
Trip Details:
Duration: 5 or 6 days
Difficulty: Medium
Scenery: Very Good
Traffic: Low
Ready to embark on this extraordinary adventure? Let us guide you through the breathtaking landscapes of Kilimanjaro and create unforgettable memories.
What to Expect
Prepare for a thrilling adventure surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rongai Route. The hike will challenge you physically and mentally, offering stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment at every turn. Expect camaraderie, shared stories, and a deep connection with nature. The Rongai route on Mount Kilimanjaro is about 73 kilometers (45 miles) long. The total distance you cover depends on the itinerary you choose, which can be either 6 or 7 days. The Rongai route is considered one of the least crowded routes on Kilimanjaro and is the only route that approaches the summit from the mountain's northern side. The route is typically completed over 6 or 7 days to allow time for acclimatization and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Price Includes
Guided hiking tour led by certified lead guides
Airport Transfers:
Return transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) to accommodation in Moshi;
Return transfer from accommodation in Moshi to the entry gate into Kilimanjaro National Park.
Trip Safety: Helicopter Rescue
A helicopter rescue service will be provided to air transfer you (during daylight hours only) in an emergency from the mountain to hospital in Moshi. Note that this service will only be applicable if you have medical insurance which covers high altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters, and this service is always subject to weather conditions.
Trip Crew:
Professional guides, licensed by Kilimanjaro National Park. All our guides are well-equipped to handle medical emergencies as they have undergone various High-Altitude Medical Emergency Training to save the lives of climbers who fall sick on the mountain.
Dedicated support crew (assistant guides, camp master, porters, cooks, etc.).
Accommodations:
One night at 3* Marididi hotel https://themaridadihotel.com/ before the expedition and one night after; The hotels have everything for your comfortable stay - caring staff, nice rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, restaurant and swimming pool). Some rely on generators.
Tented accommodation on Mount Kilimanjaro (modern, comfortable 4-Season tents, Mountain Hardwear Trango 3/4 or equivalents).
Please Note:
All hotel accommodation is based on a sharing basis (i.e. you will be sharing with your travel companion a twin/double room. If you travel solo on a group expedition, we will room you with a same-sex participant unless you purchase a single supplement. Single occupancy in a hotel is available upon request and extra charges apply and can be purchased through our online store under single supplement.
Meals:
Breakfast in the hotel before and after the trek.
All meals on the trek. Our Kilimanjaro diet includes energy-rich and highly nutritious meals prepared by our professional high-altitude cooks. In our menu you will find different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables; vegetarian/gluten-free/halal options are available at no extra cost. Also options for lactose free are available upon request.
All drinks on the trek (juices, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water). We will stop coffee to reduce blood pressure prior to summit night.
We send a resupply of fresh food from our office to your camp on Day 5.
Entrance Fees:
All park fees collected by the Kilimanjaro National Park (conservation fees, camping fees, crew fees, rescue fees and all other fees collected by the Tanzania National Parks Authority). These are subject to increase on or before July 1st every year and are now required to be paid in TSH/TZH instead of other currencies.
Hiking and safety equipment:
2-inches thick and comfortable sleeping mattresses.
All group equipment (spacious and comfortable dining tent, camping table and chairs, dining sets and cutlery).
Dry bag (to protect your duffel bag).
Portable toilets (one unit can be comfortably shared between up to 6 people). For more than 6, we will provide a 2nd toilet.
Bottled oxygen, blood pressure kit and pulse oximeter.
GPS-tracking service.
Complete medical kits including Diamox and Dexamethasone.
Future offering (Starting January 2025) Satellite Internet for the group setup at campsites.
Awards:
We have very high success rates and your trip includes a Certificate of Achievement if you make it to the summit at Uhuru Peak (19,341 feet). But your trip includes a Certificate of Achievement even if you only reach Stella Point at 18,885 feet.
We will bake a celebratory cake for the group if all make it to the summit together.
We will provide glow sticks on summit night to make the trek more fun!
Price Excludes
Personal gear and equipment
Travel Insurance (now required in Zanzibar for all trips and required for all Kilimanjaro Treks by our company)
Visa costs (only obtain online starting Nov 2024)
Roundtrip airfare/flights
Tips for Guides/Porters
Dinner on the Day before the trip and the final night after the trip at the hotel
Single Supplement/accomodations
Itinerary
Hike Talk Stay Adventures: Conquer Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route!
Day 0-Arrival & transfer to the Maridadi hotel:
https://themaridadihotel.com/
Greet and pickup at Airport & transfer with baggage to hotel in Moshi (included in your trip price)
Dinner you are free choose and is not included
Trip briefing either same day or tomorrow morning
Gear check to ensure you are prepared and safe for the trip
Storing of Valuables in the safe and additional luggage not needed for the Trek locked in the hotel safe
Experience a Serene Ascent & Unforgettable Adventure
Hike Talk Stay Adventures invites you on a life-changing journey - climbing Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route! This less-crowded path offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the mountain's untouched beauty.
Day 1: Nale Muru Gate - Simba Camp (7km / 4.3mi, 3-4 hrs) - Rainforest
Our adventure begins with a scenic drive from Moshi, passing coffee plantations and reaching Nale Muru Gate. After obtaining permits, we embark on our trek along wooded trails, learning about local flora and fauna from your expert guide. Keep your eyes peeled - wildlife sightings are not uncommon! Simba Camp, nestled near a cave at the edge of the moorland, boasts breathtaking views of the Kenyan plains. Relax and enjoy the tranquility of the first night.
Day 2: Simba Camp - Second Cave Camp (5.8km / 3.6mi, 5-6 hrs) - Moorland
Following a hearty breakfast, we ascend steadily through the moorland. Witness captivating views of Kibo and catch a glimpse of the eastern crater rim's ice fields. As the landscape changes and temperatures drop, we arrive at Second Cave Camp, a perfect spot to rest and prepare for higher altitudes.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp - Kikelewa Camp (5.95km / 3.7mi, 2-3 hrs) - Semi-Desert
After a nourishing breakfast, we continue our ascent across the vast moorland, drawing closer to the majestic peaks of Mawenzi. This relatively short trek offers stunning views of the eastern ice fields. Remember to listen to your body and communicate any signs of altitude sickness to your guide.
Day 4: Kikelewa Camp - Mawenzi Tarn (3.75km / 2.3mi, 3-4 hrs) - Semi-Desert
A short but challenging climb awaits, rewarded by unparalleled vistas. Leaving vegetation behind, we reach Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon is free for relaxation or exploration to aid acclimatization. (Optional: For an extra day, enjoy additional acclimatization hikes around Mawenzi.)
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn - Kibo Hut (8.9km / 5.5mi, 4-5 hrs) - Alpine Desert
Today, we traverse the lunar-like "Saddle" between Mawenzi and Kibo, arriving at Kibo Camp at the base of the Kibo crater wall. This rest day is crucial for preparing for the challenging summit push.
Day 6: Summit Day - Kibo Huts - Horombo Huts (15.75km / 9.8mi) - Glaciers, Snow-Capped Summit
Get ready for the most demanding yet rewarding part of the trek! An early pre-dawn start leads us towards the summit along a path between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. As we ascend through scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim, brace yourself for the magnificent sunrise. Faster hikers may even experience this breathtaking spectacle from the summit itself. From Stella Point, expect snow-covered terrain as you conquer the final stretch to Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa!
Celebrate! Take photos, soak in the accomplishment, and savor this incredible moment.
Descend to Horombo Huts: We then begin our descent to Horombo Huts, stopping for lunch and a short rest at Barafu Camp. Gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended for navigating the loose gravel and volcanic ash terrain. Enjoy a well-deserved rest on your last night on the mountain.
Day 7: Horombo Huts - Marangu Gate - Moshi (20km / 12.5mi, 6-7 hrs) - Rainforest
After breakfast, a heartfelt farewell ceremony awaits you with your incredible crew. We descend through the rainforest, stopping at Mandara Huts for lunch. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters who will be leaving here. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, receive your summit certificates. Finally, a welcoming vehicle whisks you back to your Moshi hotel (approximately 45 minutes), where you can indulge in a well-deserved hot shower, a celebratory dinner, and countless memories!
Day 8: Departure - Farewell, Kilimanjaro!
Whether you go on a safari with us, or fly to Zanzibar or any other destination, our vehicle will be ready for your airport transfer at a time of your choosing.
Ready to embark on this life-changing adventure? Contact Hike Talk Stay Adventures today and let's turn your Kilimanjaro summit dream into reality!
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