RONGAI ROUTE 6 DAYS
Kilimanjaro Destinations leads treks up the unique Rongai Route known to be more scenic than the Marangu Route, easier than the Machame Route. Unlike the Marangu Route where you sleep in huts, on the Rongai you sleep in tents (tents are included), and the porters will pitch your tent for you. Meals are served in a dinner tent or on a blanket outside. The Rongai starts on the north side of the mountain just south of the Kenyan border, and is one of the least traveled routes. The Rongai joins the Marangu for the summit climb, then you descend the Marangu Route on the mountain's southeast side, so you see Kilimanjaro from many view points.
ITINERARY
Arrival in Tanzania – drive to Moshi.
You will be met on time of your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport by our transferring driver who will you will welcome and escort you to the waiting vehicle then drive to The Hotel in Moshi for the rest of the day your trek will start the next day morning. The rest of the day will be spent at the pool relaxing at the hotel or explore the town of Moshi. Your mountain guide will meet you in the evening for briefing on the next morning trek.
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 1
Climbing to Kilimanjaro through Forest.
After completing the necessary registration formalities at Marangu National Park gate, we transfer by Land rover to Rongai. The climb begins from Nale Moru (1,950 m) on a small 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, including the beautiful Kilimanjaro Colobus monkey. These monkeys are black with a long ‘cape’ of white hair and a flowing white tail. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp, Simba Camp; is at the edge of the moorland zone (2,600 m) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.
[3-4 hours walking].
Day 2
Climbing to Kilimanjaro through Ice Field.
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, we leave the main trail and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Kikelewa campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant senesces near Kikelewa Caves (3,600 m)
[6-7 hours walking].
Day 3
Climbing to Kilimanjaro through Wilderness.
A short but steep climb is rewarded by superb all round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. We leave 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.
[3-4 hours walking].
Day 4
Climbing to Kilimanjaro across the lunar Desert.
We cross the lunar desert of the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite (4,700 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!
[5-6 hours walking].
Day 5
Climbing to Kilimanjaro Gillman’s Point.
We will start the final, and by far the steepest and most demanding, part of the climb by torchlight around 1 a.m. We plod 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) We will 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, we continue the descent to reach Horombo Camp (3,720 m).
[11-15 hours walking].
Day 6
Wake, as usual, pack, and descend through the moorland to the Mandara Huts. Have lunch there then continue your triumphant recessional down through lush forest to the park gate, which you should reach around 2 or 3 PM. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here.
A vehicle will take you back to the Hotel or similar hotel in Moshi, where it is definitely time for celebration!
Depart for the airport or other destinations in Tanzania or Kenya. A trip to the beaches at Zanzibar is a good way to recuperate. We can arrange many reasonably priced trips and safaris around Moshi and the Kilimanjaro region Accommodation: Hotel.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
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Two nights accommodation at the Hotel in Moshi double (before and after the climb)
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First night includes breakfastLast night includes dinner & breakfast
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Qualified guides with mountain crew
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National park fees
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Hut/camping fees and tents
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Tents foam sleeping pads, Cooking equipment, and ( Cutlery / Crockery) eating utensils.
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Rescue fees (required by the National Park)
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Pulse oximeters
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First aid kit
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Guides, porters, cook, waiter salaries
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Boiled water on the mountain
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Airport transfers (JRO - Kilimanjaro International Airports)
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All meals on the mountain (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
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Guides, porters, waiter, cook accommodation and entry fees on the mountain.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
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Guides, Porters, Cook & Waiters tips
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Meals and drinks not specified
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Mountain equipment (eg sleeping bags)
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Gear for your climb, Some equipment is available for rent.
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Car Supplement USD$145 per car for clients who go through Lemosho/Rongai/Shira Routes
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Items of personal nature ( expenses)
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Additional nights beyond the two standard hotel nights included
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Extra activities (waterfall tour, cultural village visit).
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Visa fees & travel insurance.
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Flight tickets