7 DAYS RONGAI


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THE OVERVIEW

The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, this route still experiences low crowds. Rongai has a more steady slope than the mountain’s other routes. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the popular 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). Rongai is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience.

 

Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up for this by passing through true wilderness areas for nearly the entire way. Descend is made via the Marangu route.

Wildmasters travel offers Rongai as a six and seven day group climb or private climb. The six day variation does not have an acclimatization day on day four at Mawenzi Tarn.

A glimpse of Machame route in photos

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THE ITINERARY

A NOTE ON THE FLEXIBILITY OF THIS ITINERARY

  • Please note that our itineraries are flexible and we customize them according to your needs. 
  • Airport pick up and drop off are optional, meaning if you are already in Moshi or Arusha or you can arrange your own airport transfers, we can take them out of the price for this tour.
  • Pre and post trek accommodations are optional.

Day 1

From Moshi Town to Marangu Gatedrive  for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Climbing Gate . The path winds through peasants fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey towards Rongai Cave.

Rongai Gate to Rongai Cave   -Elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles            -Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

Day 2

This morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave,We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.Rongai Cave to to Second Cave    -Elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles                   -Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath

Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave     -Elevation: 11,300 ft to 11,811 ft
Distance: 6 km/4 miles                  -Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Heath

Day 3

This day the hike  is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the sharp spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.

Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn    -Elevation: 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft
Distance: 5 km/3 miles                    -Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 4

This is an added day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi the popular peaks of Kilimanjaro mountain. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp.

Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge      -Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft -14,400 ft
Distance: 2 km/1 mile                          -Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Mawenzi Ridge to Mawenzi Tarn      -Elevation (ft): 14,400 ft -14,160 ft
Distance: 2 km/1 mile                          -Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 5

We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.

Marwenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut     -Elevation (ft): 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft
Distance: 8 km/5 miles             -Hiking Time: 5-6 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert

Day 6

Very early in the morning (around midnight), our guide will lead the push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa.

After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

 

Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak       -Elevation (ft): 15,430 ft to 19,341 ft

 Distance: 6 km/4 miles        -Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Habitat: Arctic

Uhuru Peak to Horombo Hut   -Elevation (ft): 19,341 ft to 12,250 ft
Distance: 16 km/10 miles         -Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
Habitat: Heath

Day 7

On our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rainforest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we will be awarded our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi/Arusha.

Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate   -Elevation (ft): 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft
Distance: 20 km/12 miles              -Hiking Time: 5-7 hours
Habitat: Rain Forest

There will be the end of our treck.


PRICING

PRICING

 Contact us directly so that our travel consultants can provide you with the best quote.

Below are our standard price includes and excludes. These may change depending on how you want to customize your tour.

Tour price Includes:

  • Government taxes
  • Bottled drinking water.
  • English speaking guide
  • Full board accommodation
  • All park fees and emergency evacuation insurance
  • 4×4 jeep with pop-up roof for 360 degrees game viewing

Tour price excludes:

  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Airport transfers
  • Pre/post accommodation
  • Items of personal nature (e.g. cameras, visa, and travel insurance)

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