MOUNT KILIMANJARO

RONGAI ROUTE

This remote and less frequently used route is the second easiest route to Kilimanjaro. The approach to the mountain is from the less-forested north side and the descent is by the Marangu Route. There are several variations, the one described below is a longer route taking in Mawenzi Tarn. The second day on this variant is quite long and could be broken up into two days walk allowing more time for acclimatisation. The ascent to Uhuru Peak is almost the same as for the Marangu Route from the Kibo Hut.

Accommodation on the mountain is in tents (even on descent) which the porters will pitch for you. You will need a sleeping bag, warm clothes and walking poles. This is a steep, tough trek within the limits of a fit individual used to walking in mountain areas.

1. Arrive at the hotel in moshi (B&B).

2. Drive round Kilimanjaro to the Rongai Gate (3-4h, 2100m.). Walk through the rain forest to Camp 1 (4h, 2800m).

3. Walk up through giant heathers and moorlands to Camp 2 - near Kikelewa Cave (6h, 3600m).

4. Walk towards the jagged pinnacles of Mawenzi and camp by the Mawenzi Tarn Hut, the last section is fairly steep, (4-5h, 4330m).

5. Gain The Saddle and walk across this desert of scree to a camp not far from Kibo hut (3-4h, 4730m).

6. Very early start for the summit on steep scree up to Gillman's Point (5h, 5681m) on the crater rim. Continue around the rim to Uhuru Peak (1h30min, 5895m). Descend to our camp for Something to eat and rest and then walk down to Horombo Hut. Total walking time about 12h.

7. Descend to Marangu gate, 5h. Drive back to the hotel (B&B).

8. Depart after breakfast..