Kilimanjaro - Rongai Route
8 Days Starting and ending in Marangu
Visiting: Tanzania
Tour Overview
The sight of the permanent snow capped peak of Mt Kilimanjaro (5895m), fondly known as Kili, provides a constant source of inspiration when viewed from the vast plains. It is also a natural focus for any fit trekker keen to summit the highest peak in Africa. While the ascent does not require any technical climbing, the trails are demanding and a sound level of fitness and an ability to acclimatise are essential prerequisites before attempting the summit. The Rongai Route begins in attractive farmland and delightful forest, with the opportunity for viewing black and white colobus monkey, and passes through several different climate zones, adding considerably to the interest of the trek while at the same time ensuring maximum acclimatisation. This route retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching it from the north. From the alluring summit of Uhuru Peak (5895m), we will have amazing 360 degree views of the surrounding plains.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Marangu
If you choose to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) early today we recommend a private transfer to Marangu where the rest of the day is at leisure. We stay at the Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort, which is beautifully located on the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro and is a perfect place to prepare for your adventure. If you are already in Arusha or fly in the afternoon, there is a complimentary group transfer to Marangu, departing Moivaro Lodge between 14:00 - 15:00hrs. The transfer picks up from other selected hotels in and around Arusha and also from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) at approx 15:00-15:30hrs before arriving at our hotel in Marangu. Please advise if you wish to use this service - it must be pre-booked. Exact pick up times cannot be guaranteed as it depends on the number of stops en route. Your patience is required with this. You will meet your guide in Marangu this evening for a trip briefing at approx 18:00hrs.
Day 2 : Commence Climb (2600M, 3-4 Hrs)
After completing the necessary registration formalities at Marangu National Park gate, we transfer by Landrover to Rongai. The climb begins from the attractive wooden village of Nale Moru (1950m) on a small path that winds through 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 our first camp is at the edge of the moorland zone (2600m) with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.
Day 3 : Kikelewa Caves (3600M, 4-5 Hrs)
The morning walk is a steady ascent up to the 'Second Cave' (3450m) 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. Our campsite is in a sheltered valley with giant senecios near Kikelewa Caves
Day 4 : Mawenzi Tarn (4330M, 3-4 Hrs)
A short but steep climb up grassy slopes 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 (4330m), 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 acclimatisation.
Day 5 : Walk To Kibo (4700M, 5-6 Hrs)
We cross the lunar desert of the 'Saddle' between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite at (4700m) situated 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.
Day 6 : Summit (5895M) And Descend To Horombo Hut 11-15Hrs
We will start the final, and by far the steepest and most demanding, part of the climb by torchlight around 1am. We walk very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gilman's Point (5685m). We will rest here 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 (5895m); passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo (4700m) is surprisingly fast and, after some refreshment, we continue the descent to reach our final campsite at Horombo (3720m). Today's trekking involves from 11 to 15 hours walking which is made to feel more strenuous by the effects of altitude and extreme cold. This section of the trek is one of the steepest and most demanding and should not be taken lightly. It is a great idea to have your own head torch so that your hands are free for balance. Most people are surprised by the extreme cold and the best advice is to follow the clothing list and pack your warm clothes.
Day 7 : Descend To Marangu (Approx 5-6 Hours)
A steady descent takes us down through moorland to Mandara Hut (2700m); we then continue descending through lovely lush forest on a steady path to the National Park gate at Marangu (1830 m). Overnight at hotel in Marangu.
Day 8 : In Marangu, Trip Concludes
Arrangements will end after breakfast in Marangu. There is a free group transfer from Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort in Marangu back to Arusha, departing 9.00am. The transfer drops off at Kilimanjaro International Airport, selected hotels in and around Arusha town and finally at Ilboru Safari Lodge. If you wish to depart later or spend additional nights in Marangu, a private transfer to Arusha can be arranged (extra cost applies).
What's Included
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Accommodation
5 nights camping -
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
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2 nights in 3 star hotel in Marangu on a twinshare basis
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5 nights fully supported camping on a twinshare tent basis
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Group camping equipment including tent (sleeping bag and mat not included - can be hired locally)
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Experienced local mountain guides, cook and camp crew
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Park entrance fees valued at US$826
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Emergency oxygen
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Christmas and New Year supplement (please ask our staff for details of this small peak season surcharge)
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International flights
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Arrival or departure airport transfers if not taking the complimentary transfer to/from the airport
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing, a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc. Porters carry all group gear and your trek pack/kit bag.
Grading
As with all our Moderate to Challenging programs, we expect clients to be regular outdoors people, enjoying aerobic sport around three or four times a week over some period of time. Preferably this has been a long term interest but if not, you have set a program of fitness preparation with at least three months lead in time to your trip. The fitter you are for your trip, the more of a holiday it will be. Activities as close to the actual activity on your trip are the best training; in this instance hill walking, with and without a daypack. This builds leg strength, aerobic capacity and confidence in your ability to walk comfortably with a pack for extended periods. At the same time, you are also comfortable with the layers you like to wear and footwear.
Whilst this ascent of Kilimanjaro is not a technical climb, it is nevertheless a short and steep trek at altitude, and for many people it will be the hardest physical walk of their life. In order to get the most out of the trip, people should join in Marangu with a maximum state of fitness. There is not time to ‘get fit on the trek’ as with some of our other longer trek programs in other parts of the world. Talk to us if you are unsure about your suitability for the Rongai route; we would be happy to discuss your level of experience and fitness.
Check out our Q&As
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.