Destination

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Duration
9 Days 8 Nights
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Tour Type
Adventure Tour
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Group Size
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Tour Guide
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route (7 Days) The Rongai
Mt. kilimanjaro Climbing

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route (7 Days)

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route (7 Days)

The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north, close to the Kenyan border. Though gaining popularity amongst climbers, Rongai has low traffic. It is the preferred route for those looking for an alternative to the crowded 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).

Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or from a Nairobi shuttle transfer, there will be transferred to your hotel in Moshi for your overnight.

Mount Kilimanjaro is an iconic and majestic stratovolcano situated in northeastern Tanzania, East Africa. It is renowned for being the tallest freestanding mountain in the world and the highest peak on the African continent. Here’s a description of its physical characteristics and features:

  1. Elevation: The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak, stands at an impressive elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. This towering height makes it a prominent landmark on the African landscape.
  2. Geology and Formation: Kilimanjaro is a dormant stratovolcano formed by the accumulation of layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic materials over millions of years. Its distinct conical shape is a result of multiple eruptions and subsequent erosion.
  3. Glaciers and Snow: Despite its location near the equator, Kilimanjaro’s high altitude has allowed it to support several glaciers and a permanent ice cap. However, due to climate change, these ice formations have been receding in recent decades.
  4. Ecological Zones: The mountain’s slopes are characterized by distinct ecological zones as you ascend, each with its own unique flora and fauna. These zones include the cultivated foothills, rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and the arctic summit.
  5. Biodiversity: Kilimanjaro is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species adapted to its varying altitudes. The lower slopes feature lush rainforests with colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and a variety of bird species. As you climb higher, you’ll encounter unique high-altitude plants like giant groundsel and lobelias.
  6. Climbing Routes: The mountain offers several different climbing routes, each providing a distinct experience in terms of scenery, difficulty, and acclimatization. These routes vary in length and can take anywhere from 5 to 9 days to complete, depending on the chosen path.
  7. Cultural Significance: Kilimanjaro holds cultural significance for the local Chagga people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The mountain plays a role in their myths, rituals, and agricultural practices.
  8. Tourism: Kilimanjaro attracts climbers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts from around the world who seek to conquer its summit. The challenge of reaching Uhuru Peak and the breathtaking panoramic views from the top are major draws.
  9. Conservation: The mountain and its surrounding area are protected as Kilimanjaro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Efforts are made to preserve its natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
  10. Changing Landscape: Climate change has had a noticeable impact on Kilimanjaro, causing the reduction of its glaciers and altering its ecosystems. Scientists and conservationists are studying these changes and their implications for the mountain’s future.

Mount Kilimanjaro stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of the natural world, attracting adventurers and explorers while highlighting the need for responsible environmental stewardship.

The best months for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Normally April and May are the months with long rains and should be avoided.
November is usually short rains but it is not often rains all day.
The best time for climbing mount Kilimanjaro is January to February and September.
July to August can be colder and November to December can be wetter.
January to March is the warmest months, almost clear of clouds each evening and morning.
The success rates with our guides are outstanding compared to the overall success rates for all climbers who attempt to reach the top.

Destination Day 1 : Mombasa – Tsavo EastDay 2 : Tsavo East – Amboseli

Day 3 : Amboseli – Nairobi

Depature Yes Required
Departure Time
Return Time
Included
  • Nights accommodation in Moshi
  • Quality, waterproof, four-season private mountain sleeping tents:
  • Professional, experienced, mountain guides:
  • All Park fees
  • Rescue fees
  • All meals while on the Mountain
  • Arrival and Departure transfers
  • Guides, Porters, cook salaries and park fees
  • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food:
  • Clean, purified drinking water:
  • Crisis management and safety procedures:
  • Fair and ethical treatment of porters:
  • Supplement summit Emergency Oxygen:
  • Pulse Oximeters:
  • Walking Poles:
Excluded
  • Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival
  • Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)
  • Meals not listed above
  • Optional Tours (short safari after your climb etc)
  • Tips and any items of personal nature.

 

Details

We will gather in the evening at 5:30 pm for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.
After an early breakfast in Arusha, you will drive to the Rongai (Nalemoru) Gate near the Kenya border. We begin our climb on this unspoilt wilderness route. The walk then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin out and the first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2600 m.) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains. The first day is only a half-day walk. Nalemoru Gate to Rongai Camp (2,600 m): 3-4 hours walking
The morning walk is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave, (3,450m) with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern ice fields on the crater rim. After hot lunch we have a free time to rest at the camp or in the afternoon we can explore the surrounding area for acclimatisation walk to Third Cave. Rongai Camp to Second Cave (3,450 m): 3-4 hours walking.
Gradual rise through beautiful open moorland towards jagged pinnacles of Mawenzi to Kikelewa Camp (3679m) we reach in late afternoon at Kikelewa Caves for dinner and overnight at the camp. Second Cave to Kikelewa Cave (3.600 m): 3-4 hours walking.
A Short but steep ascent to Mawenzi Tarn (4330m). Leave the vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn. The afternoon is free to help your acclimatization. Kikelelwa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m):3-4 hours walking.
Today we cross the lunar desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and KiboHut (4700m), at the bottom of the Kibo Crater wall by early afternoon. There is no running water at Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent relaxing in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. Mawenzi Turn to Kibo Hut (4,700m); 5-6 hours walking.
Wake up before midnight in the cover of darkness. We begin a steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to rim of the main crater, Gillman’s 5,685 m. We will rest there for few minutes to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling good can continue slowly to make the three hour round trip from here along the crater rim to Uhuru peak 5,895 m. which is the highest point in Africa. After a few minutes to appreciate your accomplishment we descend to Kiko Hut is amazingly fast, and we stop at Kibo Hut for some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach Horrombo Hut. Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut (3100 m): 13-15 hours walking.
Today we will descend past Mandara hut to Marangu Gate, successful climbers will receive their summit certificates. From here you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort for dinner and overnight. Horombo hut to Marangu Gate. (6-7 hours walking).
Depart from Marangu gate to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or other destinations in Tanzania or Kenya.

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