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This route retains a sense
of unspoilt wilderness and offers a different perspective on Kilimanjaro by
approaching it from the north.
The Rongai route is the only route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the
north, close to the Kenyan border.
The
minimum number of days required for this route is six days, and seven days
are recommended.
Although the scenery is not as varied as the western routes, Rongai makes up
for this by passing through true wilderness areas for days before joining
the Marangu route at Kibo camp. This route descends down the Marangu route.
Rongai
is a moderately difficult route, and is highly recommended, especially for
those with less backpacking experience.
Route Outline
1. Drive 4 hours to the Rongai Gate. Walk to Simba Camp at 2650 m, 2½-3 hrs.
The walk is initially through plantations then rain forest and finally bush
country.
2. Walk to 2nd Cave at 3450 m, 3½ hrs. A gentle day through bush then
heathers.
3. Gentle rising traverse through moorland over several ridges to Kikelea
Caves, 3600 m, 3 hours.
4. Moorland then screes to Mawenzi Tarn Hut, 4330 m, 3-3½ hrs.
5. Easy angled screes slopes lead across the Saddle to Kibo Hut, 4700 m,
4½-5 hrs.
6. Very early start for the summit on steep scree up to Gillman's Point
(5681 m) which is on the crater rim. Continue around the rim (which will
take about two hours if you are fit) to Uhuru Peak (5895 m) the highest
point in Africa. The views of the sunrise over Mawensi to the East is
stunning. Descend to Kibo Hut for tea and biscuits or soup and then down to
the thicker air and relative warmth of Horombo hut.
7. Descend to Marangu gate, receive your gold certificates.
You now drive back to Moshi for a long overdue hot shower, dinner descent
bed and celebrations!! |
