The “desert route“ has its own very special charm
The Rongai route leads across the rarely used, rain-poor northeast flank of Kilimanjaro. The route starts near the Kenyan border, and offers great views of the Kenyan savannah and rugged Mawenzi. The trail leads first through fir forest and lighter rainforest, whilst at the Mawenzi Tarn Camp you will pass the only mountain lake on Kilimanjaro. The mountain massif is exceeded during this tour, and the descent is via the Marangu route. Due to the drier climate, the route is also suitable for ascents during the rainy season. The route is relatively easy, but some rock passages in the summit area require a certain degree of surefootedness.
We recommend the Rongai route as a 7 day tour. For very fit mountain hikers, the 6 day tour is also suitable. The second day of the 6 day tour walks directly from the Simba Camp to the Kikelewa Camp, as the
intermediate stage over the Second Cave Camp is omitted.
Highlights:
- Exceeding the Kilimanjaro
- Ascent via the Rongai route, descent via the Marangu route
- Very varied route from the dry north to the lush south
- Great views in the savannah and on the Mawenzi, on the route is the only mountain lake at Kilimanjaro
- Total distance of about 70 km
Single accommodation is not possible on this tour, as the overnight stays take place in mountain huts with multiple occupancy.
Kilimanjaro Trekking via Rongai Route 6 / 7 days
Day 1
Transfer from the hotel to Nalemoru Gate (1990m) – Simba Camp (2625m)
After breakfast and a general briefing for your upcoming ascent (including equipment check), we will drive around Kilimanjaro on its east side. After a 3 to 4 hour ride, which passes some small villages, we reach the park entrance. Once the formalities are completed and your luggage is distributed to the carriers, the tour can … Continue reading Transfer from the hotel to Nalemoru Gate (1990m) – Simba Camp (2625m)
Day 2
Simba Camp (2625m) – Second Cave Camp (3450m)
Today’s section of the route leads through both heath and moorland landscapes. In good weather you have a great view of the savannah. At noon you will reach Second Cave Camp where you will spend the night. After lunch, you can take a short hike towards the Third Cave – this supports your acclimatisation. Breakfast; … Continue reading Simba Camp (2625m) – Second Cave Camp (3450m)
Day 3
Second Cave Camp (3450m) – Kikelewa Camp (3650m)
Today we continue upwards through heath and moorland to Kikelewa Camp. The camp is located in a protected sink surrounded by senecio. You will arrive around noon and have plenty of time to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the views. Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Day 4
Kikelewa Camp (3650m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330m)
Today’s stage continues through heath and moorland landscape, the senecio typical for the Kilimanjaro are your companion. The landscape soon becomes more barren and we move towards the Mawenzi. After crossing some rocky sections, the way leads over a moraine ridge to today‘s destination – the Mawenzi Tarn Hut. The camp is protected by the … Continue reading Kikelewa Camp (3650m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330m)
Day 5
Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330m) – Kibo Hut (4700m)
After breakfast the trail leads steady uphill. Once you have reached the mountain ridge, you will have a clear view of the Kibo saddle and your day’s destination. The trail continues over the saddle which connects the Mawenzi to the main summit of Kibo. Here the landscape changes into an alpine desert, only a few … Continue reading Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4330m) – Kibo Hut (4700m)
Day 6
Kibo Hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo Hut (3700m)
At around 11pm it will be time to leave your sleeping bag, and after warming up with a cup of tea or coffee, you will start your ascent of the summit at around midnight. At an even tempo, using the light of your headlamp, the trail leads upwards. After about two hours you will reach the … Continue reading Kibo Hut (4700m) – Uhuru Peak (5895m) – Horombo Hut (3700m)
Departure:
Please arrive by 9:15 AM for a prompt departure at 9:30 AM.
Departure Time:
Approximately 9:30 PM.
Dress Code:
Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and warm jacket.
Included:
- Airport pick up and drop off
- All entrance park fees
- Camping equipment
- Full board accommodation whilst on safari
- Mountain crew (cook & porters)
- Overnight stays in tents
- Professional guide
Not Included:
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Meals not listed above
- Optional tours
- Personal Expenses
- Safari jeep with pop up roof for game viewing
- Sleeping bag
- Tips and any items of personal nature
- Travel insurance