KILIMANJARO

A TREK TO THE ROOF OF AFRICA VIA THE QUIET AND BEAUTIFUL RONGAI ROUTE

Trip Overview

Kilimanjaro is the jewel of East Africa, and this 7 day ascent via the beautiful Rongai Route is far quieter than the standard trails. There is a high chance of seeing wildlife, and the ascent is also relatively gradual, making it a perfect choice. It also enjoys some of the most striking views of the jagged Mawenzi Peak, as well as benefitting from a less trodden approach to the summit crater.

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Accommodation & Service

Pre & Post climb accommodation :

We work with a number of beautiful lodges and hotels around Kilimanjaro to make sure that the experience is a high standard throughout.

On the mountain we offer three levels of service: Lightline, Highline and Skyline. We can say with confidence that our Lightline offering is better equipped than 90% of other expeditions on the mountain. Our Highline climb includes several refinements to enhance the comfort, and our Skyline spec is the only service of it’s kind. Safety remains the key focus regardless of specification chosen.

Lightline:

A high quality 3 person mountain tent is provided for 2, with a foam pad to sleep on. Dining tent with lightweight table and stalls, toilet tent, and transfers in private buses.

Highline:

A large mess tent is provided for dining, with high-backed chairs. A larger sleeping tent with a 3 inch foam mattress, pillow and -18 Celcius rated sleeping bag with liner. There is a private portable toilet. 3 course evening meals and fresh pressed coffee available. Transfers in private 4x4 safari vehicles.

Skyline:

With our Skyline specification the team will be sure to be staying in the best accommodation on the mountain. You will be sleeping in a large standing height tent, with full size sleeping cot, 3 inch foam mattress, pillow and -18 celsius sleeping bag for the best nights sleep. Private toilet and shower tents will also be provided.

A large mess tent is provided for dining and socialising which has comfortable backed chairs and large tables for enjoying the 3 course meals in comfort. Tea & Pressed coffee available. Transfers in private 4x4 safari vehicles.

We offer every route on Kilimanjaro, including the Machame, Rongai, Lemosho and technical Western breach. Please contact us for details.

The Itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVE

Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your lodge. Full climbs briefing and kit check with your Head Guide and Climbs Manager. Overnight lodge

DAY 2: KILIMANJARO - RONGAI

In the morning you drive around Kilimanjaro to the Eastern side to Nale Moru to register at the Park Gate. Hiking is through farm and pine plantations and then through afromontane forest. Overnight Simba Camp

DAY 3: KILIMANJARO – CAVES CAMP

Ascent to Second Cave (3450m) with spectacular views of the Eastern ice fields. After lunch, you’ll leave the main trail and head towards Mawenzi. Kikelewa caves campsite is in a sheltered valley. Overnight Kikelewa Caves Camp

DAY 4: KILIMANJARO - MAWENZI

Hike up close to Mawenzi Lake which is a phenomenon located at 4,330m beneath Mawenzi mountain! In the afternoon you head out for an acclimatisation walk with your guide. Overnight Mawenzi Tarn Camp

DAY 5: KILIMANJARO – MAWENZI

Today is an acclimatisation and rest day. Your guide will take you on a hike for around 4 hours. Overnight Mawenzi Tarn

DAY 6: KILIMANJARO - KIBO

Today you cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo in the alpine desert zone. The camp is situated at 4,700 meters, which is perfect acclimatization for summit day. In the afternoon it is time to prepare for the night ascent and then an early dinner and to bed for a few hours. Overnight Kibo Camp

DAY 7: KILIMANJARO – SUMMIT - HOROMBO

An early start is required to arrive in time for a dawn on the Roof of Africa! You ascend Kibo volcano via Gilman's point (5,685m), which takes around 6 to 7 hours. It is then a further 1.5 to 2 hours to the summit, where we will stop for photos, celebrations and to take in the incredible views from the Roof of Africa! We'll then descend to Kibo for refreshments and then continue down to Horombo Camp. It is a big day, typically up to 16-18hrs. Overnight Horombo Camp

DAY 8: KILIMANJARO – PARK GATES

The final section descends to Marangu hut via Mandara hut to Marangu Gate where you are picked up for the transfer back to Arusha for a well deserved shower and drink! Celebratory dinner and summit certificates presented. Overnight Lodge

DAY 9: DEPART

You are transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.

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Included:

Trained Kilimanjaro Guides

All relevant Park fees & rescue fees

Emergency medical evacuation to KCMC/ Arusha

Supplemental oxygen & pulse oximeters

All accommodation and meals as described in final itinerary

Transfers as described in final itinerary

Drinks on the hike (potable water, tea, coffee & hot chocolate)

Excluded:

International flights

Entry visas

Items of a personal nature

Alterations to this itinerary

Airport departure taxes (unless stated)

Laundry

Beverages in hotels (except those in your personal safari vehicle)

Hospital bills and international evacuation in the event of an emergency

Tips

More Information

Season

Kilimanjaro can be climbed year round. The best times to travel are the summer season (June - early October), as these months often enjoy long dry spells and milder temperatures. December and January can also see stable weather and cooler temperatures.

Difficulty Level

Most days trekking on Kilimanjaro are 4-6hrs of undulating, uneven terrain. There are no technical sections on this route, so it is achievable for someone with good basic fitness and determination. Summit day is tough, sometimes involving up to 16hrs from leaving the tent to reaching the lower camp for the night.