Kilimanjaro Summit - The Rongai Route
10 days, Guided Groups, Seasonal Weekly Departures
Climb the highest mountain in Africa and one of the famous continental summits AWAY from the crowds on scenic and quieter routes allowing for greater acclimatisation and thus a higher chance of that all important summit success. Statistics indicate that the chance of reaching the top increases by at least 20% if an extra day is spent acclimatising on top of the standard five day itinerary. Our superb support team of qualified guides, ever helpful porters and friendly cooks will ensure that this challenging climb is a safe and enjoyable one. A trip to Kilimanjaro is often either the start of a mountaineering career or the zenith of a lifetime so it is important that we offer you the best expedition possible.
We offer regular departures during the dry seasons for those of you who may simply want to take a week off and ascend the mountain via the 6-day Rongai route. This superb track retains a sense of unspoilt wilderness and offers a very different perspective on Kilimanjaro by approaching from the north. It includes a deviation to Mawenzi Tarn, a very beautiful spot, following a little-used trail through moorland scenery. Experienced guides consider this route one of the most beautiful offering the 'easiest' route to the top camp whilst passing through several different climatic zones adding considerable interest to the trek.
- Fri and Sat. Outbound
- Depart from the UK and fly to Kilimanjaro. Transfer to Marangu village.
- Sun to Wed. The ascent
- The climb begins through fields of maize and potatoes before entering equatorial forest, the home of the beautiful Kilimanjaro Colobus monkey. The campsites offer extensive views down over the Kenyan plains and up to Kibo and the eastern ice fields. On the third day the vegetation is left behind shortly before reaching Mawenzi Tarn, spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The route now crosses the lunar desert of the 'Saddle' to reach the foot of the Kibo crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night!
- Thu and Fri. The summit and down
- The final, and by far the steepest and most demanding, part of the climb is done by torchlight, starting at around 1am. Plod slowly on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman's Point (5685 metres), where you may rest for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise. Take the three hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (5896 metres), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The Roof of Africa! The initial descent is surprisingly fast, and after a final camp at Horombo you continue down across moor and through lush forest on a good path to the National Park gate. From here you will return to Marangu for a well-earned shower!
- Sat and Sun. Homeward
- Transfer to the airport for your day flight back to the UK.
- Tour grade: D
- Cost per person: From £1,795.
- Single supplement: £95
- CO2 offset cost: £14.87
- What is included: Flights, accommodation, transfers, park fees, porters, guides, cook, camping equipment, most meals.
- Accommodation: Hotels, camping.
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Departure dates:
Fridays and Mondays, end of December to mid March, June to October.