Daily Tour
6 people
English
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). This route gives you a wilderness feeling as it passes through bare wilderness view for days before joining the Marangu route at Kibo camp. This route descends down the Marangu route. Rongai is a moderately easy route and is highly recommended, especially for those with less backpacking experience. Here is an itinerary starting from Moshi town and back.
After an early breakfast in Moshi hotel, drive for about 2½ hours to the Rongai Gate near the Kenya border. After registering at the gate and having your lunch begin your hike through rain forests where you may spot wildlife.
Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Hiking time 3 hours.
Altitude gain from Moshi town; 1,650m.
Hike through Kilimanjaro's alpine vegetation. The Rongai route is relatively short and less steep and shorter hiking hours between camps. Hiking time 2 hours.
Dinner and overnight at the Camp.
Altitude gain; 1,000m.
This more leisurely acclimatization day starts with a morning hike followed by a lot of rest in the afternoon and evening. The hike is relatively short. The campsite offers stunning views of Kibo cone peak.
Hiking time 3 hours.
Altitude gain; 200m.
After breakfast, start hiking along the alpine desert arriving to Kibo Camp in 3 to 4 hours. Kibo Camp is situated directly below the Kibo cone and offers uninterrupted views of your final destination.
Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Altitude gain; 950m.
Wake up at 2300 hours, have some tea and gearing up to begin this final ascent to highest point in African continent. Hike by the light of your flashlight for the next 7-8 hours. The ascent to the crater rim is the most challenging part of the entire trek as it is steeper until you reach Gilman's Point.
The hike from Gilman's to the Summit is a gradual climb and not very difficult taking about 1½ hours. The altitude and exhaustion however makes the hike appear longer and tiring. Upon reaching Uhuru peak (5,895m/19,340ft) you are now at top of the World's highest free standing mountain. Take photos before beginning the descent back to Kibo hut then to Horombo Huts.
Hiking time from ascent to Uhuru peak 8 hours.
Uhuru peak descent to Kibo Hut 4 hours and from Kibo to Horombo takes 4 hours.
Altitude gain; 1,145m, altitude drop; 2,175m.
After breakfast, complete your trek with a descent to Marangu Gate taking about 6-7 hours. This last hike on Kilimanjaro is a beautiful one, passing through Kilimanjaro's cloud forest. Watch your step during the descent as the trail can be slippery. While on check out of the park, you will be rewarded with a certificate of achievement. Our vehicles will be waiting there to take you back to Hotel in Moshi for Hot shower and a well earned sleep.
Altitude drop; 2,270m.
END OF THE TRIP.
