6 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Rongai Route

Day 1 – Kilimanjaro International Airport – Arusha:

At Kilimanjaro Airport, you will be greeted by our transfer driver and taken to Tulia Boutique Hotel and Spa in Arusha. The rest of the day is for you to do as you please. You can opt to spend the day relaxing by the lodge pool or explore the town of Arusha. In the late afternoon you will be briefed by our team on what to expect on your upcoming trek.

Day 2 – Arusha – Nalemoru Gate (1,990 m) – Simba Camp (2,625 m):

After breakfast you will be driven around Mt Kilimanjaro to its north-western side and after 3 to 4 hours, you will arrive at the Nalemoru Gate. After the registration process has been completed and your luggage has been divided between the porters, your adventure begins. The path runs alongside mountain farmers’ fields and pine forests before it enters the sparse mountain forest zone, where black and white colobus monkeys can often be seen. After an approximate 3 to 4 hour hike, you will reach the Simba Camp where you will spend the night. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 3 – Simba Camp (2,625 m) – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m):

Today’s trek passes through the heather and moorland zones and the views of Mawenzi and the vast Kenyan steppes are nothing short of grand. You will have lunch at the Second Cave (3,450 m) and after a short break, you will cross the undulating terrain to Kikelewa Camp. This camp boasts with incredible views and after a strenuous day’s climb, you can relax and take in its peaceful ambience. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4 – Kikelewa Camp (3,630 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m):

The typical senecien vegetation will soon disappear and the scenery will become more barren with the occasional rock formations. In good weather you can enjoy the breath-taking views of the Kibo and Mawenzi summits as well as Kenya’s savannah grasslands. After passing a few more rock formations, you will arrive at the Mawenzi Hut. For many mountain climbers, it is the most atmospheric camp on the mountain. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5 – Mawenzi Tarn Hut (4,310 m) – Kibo Hut (4,700 m):

On a relatively easy path, today’s leg takes you over the Kibo Saddle. A lack of vegetation is characteristic for the landscape here as only a few types of grass and other plant species can survive in this dry area and thin air. Just before today’s destination is reached, one last rock passage has to be conquered. Finally you will arrive at the Kibo Hut, where you can relax and mentally prepare yourself for tomorrow’s summit stage. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 6 – Kibo Hut (4,700 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Hut (3,700 m):

The climb begins at around 00:00 h and after a 5 to 7 hour walk on frozen volcanic ash, you will reach Gillman’s Point (5,715 m) on the crater’s edge. The sun rays will warm you while you trek for another 1 to 2 hours until you reach Uhuru Peak and finally stand on “Africa’s Roof”. The descent on the now thawed lava ash runs almost along the same route and you will arrive at the Kibo Hut in the late morning. A warm meal will be served and after a well-deserved break, the descent continues to the Horombo Hut. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 7 – Horombo Hut (3,700 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m) – Arusha:

After trekking for approximately 5 to 6 hours, you will have managed the easy descent and you will return to the Marangu Gate during the early afternoon. You will say goodbye to your mountain crew and a short transfer will take you back to the Tulia Boutique Hotel and Spa. Here you can take a warm and relaxing shower and celebrate your achievement. Bed and Breakfast.

How are emergencies handled during the Kilimanjaro climb?

In the event of an emergency during the Kilimanjaro climb, the mountain rescue services in Tanzania are not comparable to those found in the European Alps. If you cannot walk, you will either be carried or transported on a wheeled stretcher, which is an unpleasant experience. It is important to only push yourself as far as your body allows to prevent emergencies. Helicopters are not often deployed due to altitude limitations. It is recommended to have adequate health insurance coverage for medical expenses, including rescue and repatriation costs.

Is vaccination required for Tanzania?

The Tanzanian health department does not require vaccinations for entry. However, visitors are advised to receive a yellow fever vaccination as Tanzania is a yellow fever region. Additionally, it is recommended to have all other shots such as Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, and Hepatitis A & B up to date. Malaria is present in Tanzania, but there are no mosquitoes at high altitude. It is advisable to consult with your doctor or travel clinic for taking any precautionary medication.

What are Tanzania’s visa requirements?

For most travelers, it is possible to obtain a visa upon arrival. It is still every visitor’s obligation to check the latest visa regulations with their respective embassies. Every traveler is responsible for carrying the required travel documents.

What kind of clothes and gear are recommended for Kilimanjaro?

There are specific items that should be packed for a Kilimanjaro climb, and a detailed packing list is provided once the booking is confirmed. For convenience, essential clothing items and gear are available for rent.

Is tipping required for the mountain crew?

Tipping the mountain crew is a common practice, and gratuities are a large portion of the crew’s income, so they are highly appreciated. Recommended tipping amounts per group, not per person, are provided by the tour provider.

Should I bring extra money?

It is recommended to bring extra money for tips, souvenirs, and personal expenses. If bringing USD, it is essential to ensure that the bills have been printed after 2009 as earlier printed ones will not be accepted.

How can I cope with altitude sickness during the climb?

Almost everyone climbing Kilimanjaro will be affected by altitude sickness in some way. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and nausea. It is essential to replace lost body fluids by drinking enough water and taking magnesium to prevent muscle cramps. Mild symptoms allow continuing the hike, but severe altitude sickness is a serious matter and can be life-threatening. It is vital to bear in mind that a medical descent may be required.

What meals will be provided during the climb?

Meals are included in the itinerary. For breakfast, there is a choice of fruit, scrambled eggs, porridge, toast, jam, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Lunch is provided in a lunch box containing sandwiches, boiled eggs, chicken, etc. Dinner consists of soup and bread followed by meat or poultry with starch (i.e., chips, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice) and vegetables, topped off with dessert in the form of fresh fruit, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, and milk. Special dietary requirements or food allergies can be catered with advanced notification.

What are the ablution facilities like?

Basic long drops (simple latrines) are available, and climbers are provided with a bowl of warm water for daily wash.

How big is the group?

This is a private tour, and there won’t be any other climbers joining the group. The group will only consist of the people who chose to travel together and their mountain crew.

Is there an age limitation for this climb?

Yes, there is an age limitation for this climb. Climbers must be at least 18 years old to participate. This is to ensure that climbers have the necessary physical and mental maturity to undertake the climb safely and responsibly.

Can I bring my own climbing gear?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own climbing gear. However, it must meet our safety requirements and pass a safety inspection before use. If you are unsure whether your gear meets our safety standards, we recommend renting equipment from our facility.

Do I need prior climbing experience?

Prior climbing experience is not required, but it is recommended. Our climb is designed to be accessible to climbers of all skill levels, but it can be physically demanding. We recommend that you are in good physical shape and have some familiarity with climbing techniques.

Is there a weight limit for climbers?

Yes, there is a weight limit for climbers. Climbers must weigh between 100 and 250 pounds to participate. This is to ensure that our safety equipment can support your weight and that you can physically handle the demands of the climb.

What happens in case of inclement weather?

In the event of inclement weather, we may need to postpone or cancel the climb for safety reasons. We will do our best to notify you as soon as possible if this occurs and work with you to reschedule your climb for a later date.

Is there a refund policy?

We offer a full refund for cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled climb time. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled climb time will not be refunded. However, we understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and we will work with you to reschedule your climb for a later date if possible.