8 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route

This used to be the route used by the Outward Bound Mountain School at Oloitokitok in Kenya. The border is open during daylight hours but all park fees and arrangements must be made (via an agent) at the Marangu Gate before starting on the route. It is possible to arrange transport from Marangu to Naremoru / Rongai. Only a limited number of groups are allowed on the route at any time and it may not be used in descent. There are several big caves along the route, these are used by porters and tents should be carried. The “Outward Bound School” Hut is privately owned, no water or firewood in the vicinity. Allow 8 days for the traverse.

Day 1: NAIROBI – ARUSHA

On arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, met and assisted. Transfer to a hotel for an overnight. Dinner and Overnight.

Day 2: RONGAI GATE – 1ST CAVES CAMP

Register at the Marangu park gate with a transfer (approximately 2 ½ hours) to the Rongai trailhead. Meet your guide and porters before you begin your hike from the Nale Moru village. The small winding path crosses maize fields before entering pine forest, and then climbs gently through a forest. The trail is not at all steep, but is rather a gentle hike through beautiful country. The first night’s camp is at First Cave, at about 2,600 metres.

Day 3: 1ST CAVE – KIKELEWA CAVE 

The trail continues up towards Kibo, passing Second Cave (3450m) en-route, and reaching Kikelwa Cave at about 3600 metres. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain! Water is in the obvious stream below the cave, although you might have to wander downhill a way to find some. Overnight at 3rd Cave camp (Kikelewa Caves).

Day 4 : KIKELEWA CAVE – MAWENZI TARN CAMP

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes offers superb views of this wilderness area. The vegetation zone ends shortly before you reach your next camp at Mawenzi Tarn spectacularly situated beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area. Dinner and overnight at campsite

Day 5: MAWENZI TARN CAMP – KIBO HUT

Continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent, which begins around midnight. Overnight at Kibo Camp

Day 6: KIBO HUT – UHURU PEAK – HOROMBO HUT

Early rise at around 11:30 pm, and after some snacks  shuffle off into the night to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m). The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s point (5 681m), which is located on the crater rim.  From Gillman’s Point you will normally encounter snow all the way up to Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Take a 3-hour descent back to Kibo hut. After a short rest you gather all your gear for the ascent and head down to Horombo hut (3 hours) where you will overnight.

Day 7:  HOROMBO HUT – MARANGU GATE

After breakfast  continue your descent (6 hours), passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate.  At Marangu gate you sign your name and details in a register.  Drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, dinner and celebrations!! Overnight in Springlands hotel.

Day 8:  DEPARTURE

Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight back home or continue with your safari schedule.

Includes

• Transfer to and from the base of the mountain
• All park entrance fees to include government taxes
• Full board accommodation whilst on the trek.
• Meal plan as detailed
• All park entrance fees.
• Service of an English speaking professional Mountain guide on the mountain
• Treated water on the trek
• Return airport transfers from/to Kilimanjaro Airport

Excludes:

• Personal Insurance.
• Alcoholic, Soft drinks.
• Tips
• Laundry.
• Sleeping bags.
• Climbing gears