Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Rongai route is a mysterious experience. Nevertheless, Rongai is on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. These are the basically Northern slopes and the found five miles outside of town. Through Rongai, The tour starts from the Park passing through a pine forest and a stretch of the mountainous rainforest up to the heather and moorlands. From here It is about a 4-5 hour walk to Simba Camp which lies approximately 2625m but it is always advised to go very slowly. The forest is filled with bird life and colobus and possibly other monkey species may be seen.
Tour Details
Day 1: Arrival
On arrival, you will meet our charming staff with a signboard written in your name.
After meeting and greetings, you will be picked up from Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) and transferred to Arusha overnight.
Our Kilimanjaro mountain guide will meet you for a briefing about the climb and then check your gears to make sure you’re okay to climb
Accommodation: Serengeti Villa or Africana Grand Hotel. (Bed and breakfast)
Distance: Kilimanjaro airport to Arusha: 50 Km (1-hour drive
Arusha airport to Arusha city: 5 km (25 minutes drive)
Day 2: From Rongai – to Simba Camp
The tour departs after breakfast and then heads to Rongai on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro lies on the Northern slopes and five miles outside of town.
Moreover, We climb from the Park entrance passing through a pine forest and a short stretch of the mountainous rainforest up to the heather and moorlands. Basically, it is about a 4-5 hour walk to Simba Camp which lies about 2625m but is always advised to go very slowly. The forest is filled with bird life and colobus and other monkey species may be seen.
Day 3: Simba Camp to Kikelewa Moorland
Furthermore, The trekking continues through the forest, probably encountering the moorlands just below a large lava, majestically overhang known as Second Cave.
We will enjoy lunch, then traverse the open moorlands toward the mind-blowing peak of Mawenzi, which is the second major peak at Mount Kilimanjaro.
We will have our second overnight at Kikelewa Camp which lies at 3630 m, shortly before approaching the saddle that adjoins Mawenzi to Kibo and Uhuru peaks. This trek takes 5-6 hours. All meals included.
Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn Hut
After an early rise, the climbing proceeds through an increasingly barren landscape that gives a mysterious look with occasional rock formations.
Basically, If the weather stays in our favour, breathtaking views towards Kibo and Mawenzi can be unavoidable, as well as towards the Kenyan grasslands.
Arriving at Mawenzi Tarn Hut at 4310 m in the afternoon is always fantastic because you will have some hours of rest and relaxation, this part of the climb is the nicest one for many climbers. All meals included.
Day 5: From Mawenzi Tarn Hut – Kibo Hut
Furthermore, The climbing proceeds on a relatively easy path stretching to Kibo Saddle, in dry and relatively thin air and a barren landscape.
Here only a few species of grass survive. On top of it, Mountain vistas are brilliant as you appear onto the saddle between ice-covered Kibo and Mawenzi Peaks. Basically, The view of the mountain alone from here is worth the time and effort used to trek.
You will reach the camp by lunchtime and enjoy your afternoon rest while preparing for the summit attempt the next day.
Day 6: From Kibo Hut – Uhuru Peak – Horombo Hut
This is a day that used to be hard during the climb because the summit attempt starts around midnight. After an incredible hike of 5-7 hours on frozen volcanic ash you reach the point of Gilman’s and usually see a stupendous sunrise as you stand above the clouds.
It takes a 1 – 2 hour walk to Uhuru Peak on top of Mount Kilimanjaro (5895 m) the highest part in Africa.
After arriving a quick photo session is inevitable and then the trek descends down to Kibo Hut.
Enjoy a warm dish and a wholesome break. After that, the tour will descend to Horombo Hut at 3720 m. All meals included.
Day 7: From Horombo Hut –to Park Gate
Descend to Mandara Hut, for about 3 or 4 hours and the last leg of 2 hours to Marangu Gate.
After saying goodbye to your guide and porters, then we drive you back to Moshi or Arusha. Accommodation is not offered at the end of the tour)
PRICE: 2600$ PER PERSON
INCLUDED
Tent for camping
Mattress
All meals during the climbing
Pickup from the airport on arrival
Transportation from the hotel to the mountain gate
Transportation back to Arusha after climbing
Service of professional mountain guide
Potters Salaries
Service of professional mountain Cook.
Hotel accommodations on arrival day at Serengeti Villa or Africana Grand hotel.
Park fees
Mineral water
EXCLUDED
Items of a personal nature
Tips (20$ per person per day)
International airfares.
Any required visas.
Travel insurance.