kilimanjaro Rongai route

TREKKING

Tour Overview

ABOUT THE TREK

Embark on an unforgettable journey to conquer Africa’s highest peak with the 7-day Rongai Route. This less-traveled path on Mount Kilimanjaro offers breathtaking vistas and a gradual ascent from the northeastern side. The adventure begins at Rongai Gate, leading trekkers through diverse landscapes of lush farmlands, forests, and moorlands, providing opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. With ample time for acclimatization, the route winds through beautiful valleys, culminating at Kibo Hut, the base for the summit attempt. Scaling the challenging peak under the cover of night unveils a breathtaking sunrise at Uhuru Peak, 5,895 meters above sea level. Descending via Horombo Hut, the triumphant trek ends with memories of extraordinary accomplishment and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

SAFARI ITINERARY

Elevation at the start: Rongai Gate (1,950 meters/6,398 feet)

Elevation at the end: First Cave Camp (2,650 meters/8,694 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-6 hours

The trek begins at the Rongai Gate on the northeastern side of Kilimanjaro. The trail passes through farmland and forest areas, offering some unique views of the mountain. You'll spend the night at First Cave Camp.

Elevation at the end: Kikelewa Camp (3,600 meters/11,811 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 6-8 hours

The day's trek takes you through moorland landscapes with the possibility of spotting wildlife like monkeys. Kikelewa Camp will be your destination for the second night.

Elevation at the end: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,330 meters/14,206 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-6 hours

You'll hike across a ridge, enjoying stunning views of Mawenzi Peak. Mawenzi Tarn Camp is situated in a picturesque valley near a small lake, providing a scenic camping spot.

Similar to the previous route, this day is for acclimatization. You'll take a short hike to a higher elevation and then descend back to Mawenzi Tarn Camp to rest.

Elevation at the end: Kibo Hut (4,703 meters/15,430 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 5-7 hours

The trail becomes steeper as you head towards Kibo Hut, which is located close to the base of the Kibo summit cone. This is where you'll rest and prepare for the summit attempt.

Elevation at the summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet)

Elevation at the end: Horombo Hut (3,720 meters/12,205 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 10-14 hours

The summit attempt begins in the early hours of the morning. You'll hike through the night, reaching the summit at Uhuru Peak, witnessing the sunrise over the African plains. After reaching the summit, you'll descend back to Horombo Hut to spend the night.

Elevation at the end: Marangu Gate (1,860 meters/6,102 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 5-7 hours

On the final day, you'll trek back down to Marangu Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates and conclude your Kilimanjaro adventure.

Elevation at the end: Mweka Gate (1,640 meters/5,380 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 3-4 hours

On the final day, you'll descend through the rainforest from Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate. At the gate, you'll receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to Kilimanjaro.

SAFARI PRICING

  1. Park fees: This includes the entrance fees to Kilimanjaro National Park, camping or hut fees, and conservation fees.
  2. Professional guides and porters: The package typically includes experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the mountain and its routes. Porters are also provided to carry the bulk of your gear and camping equipment.
  3. Meals: Most packages include all meals during the climb, from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to snacks. The food is often prepared by the trekking company and is designed to provide the necessary energy for the ascent.
  4. Camping equipment or huts: Depending on the route you choose, the package may include camping equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats. For the Marangu Route, accommodation is in huts with basic amenities.
  5. Safety equipment: Safety gear such as first aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and communication equipment may be included for emergencies.
  6. Transfers: Some packages include airport transfers and transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro starting point (e.g., Machame Gate or Marangu Gate).
  1. International flights: The package usually does not include international airfare to Tanzania.

  2. Visa fees: You’ll need to obtain a Tanzanian visa, and this cost is typically not included in the package.

  3. Personal gear: Climbers are responsible for bringing their personal gear, such as clothing, hiking boots, daypacks, and other essentials.

  4. Travel insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. This is usually not included in the package.

  5. Tips: While not mandatory, it’s customary to tip the guides, porters, and other staff for their hard work and support.

  6. Additional accommodation: Accommodation before and after the climb is often not included in the package. You’ll need to arrange and pay for these separately.

  7. Personal expenses: Any expenses for souvenirs, extra snacks or drinks, and other personal items are not included.

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We Create Unforgettable Adventures

WHY SURPRISE ADVENTURES?

Tailor-made

Our goal is crafting bespoke, elevated safaris by meticulously curating each booking with care.

Life-changing experience

Beyond summiting, it's a transformative journey, fostering self-reflection, and changing lives positively.

Your Healthy & Safety

Daily health checks by Wilderness First Responder-trained guides are conducted on the mountain.

In-house top-shelf gear

Our in-house rental store offers personally vetted and sourced high-quality mountain gear for your convenience.

The Ultimate Guide To Climbing Kilimanjaro

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