7 Days Rongai Route-Kilimanjaro Trekking Itinerary

Destination

Kilimanjaro

Season

Jan-Dec

Duration

7 Days

From $300

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OVERVIEW

Rongai Route begins at the remote, northern side of Mount Kilimanjaro, near the Kenyan border. We hike through a true wilderness area towards the jagged Mawenzi Peak, then cross a barren desert saddle, before climbing up to Kibo Hut.

What’s Included

All meals on the safari.

Private 4×4 wheel drive vehicle with hatched roof

Water and hot drink (coffee and tea) during safari

All game viewing activities specified Safari

Hotel/lodge accommodations

Park entrance fees & taxes.

Camping equipments

All things of personal nature

Any safari activities not specified in the itinerary

Private Safari

$6000 per vehicle for 1-2 guests; $1800 for each additional guest, (plus taxes and fees). Maximum per vehicle, 6 guests. No minimum age. This is a private safari.
Rates are dependent on hotel availability at the time of booking.

From $300

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“I had an incredible experience with Joppy Tours on the Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro itinerary. From the mesmerizing flamingos of Lake Manyara to the iconic Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti and the breathtaking wildlife encounters in Ngorongoro Crater, every moment was unforgettable. The seamless logistics, knowledgeable guides, and exceptional accommodations made this journey truly exceptional. I highly recommend Joppy Tours for an extraordinary safari adventure in Tanzania..”

Itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN TANZANIA.

Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport, Joppy Tours will use a private transfer to Marangu at Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort.
We will gather in the evening for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance.
Dinner and overnight at Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort: Bed, Dinner, and Breakfast included.

DAY 2: RONGAI SIMBA CAMP (FULL BOARD).

We take a ride to Marangu to complete the necessary registration formalities, before transferring by SUV to Rongai. The climb begins from the Nale Moru (6,400 ft) on a small path that winds through fields of maize and potatoes before entering a pine forest. The track then starts to climb consistently, but gently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife, including the Colobus monkey. These monkeys are black with a long ‘cape’ of white hair and a flowing whitetail. The forest begins to thin out at the edge of the moorland zone. Then, we take in the expansive views over the Kenyan plains as we arrive at our first campsite at Rongai One Camp (8,500 ft). [3-4 hours walking]

DAY 3: RONGAI SECOND CAVE (FULL BOARD).

The morning walk is a steady ascent up to the Second Cave (11,300 ft) with superb views of Kibo and the Eastern Icefields on the crater rim. After lunch, we leave the main trail and strike out and head southeast across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi. Our campsite is in a sheltered valley, decorated with giant senecios near Kikelewa Caves (11,800 ft). [6-7 hours walking]

DAY 4: RONGAI KIKELELWA CAVE (FULL BOARD).

A short but steep climb is rewarded by superb all-around views and a tangible sense of wilderness. We leave vegetation behind shortly before reaching the next camp at Mawenzi Tarn (14,200 ft), spectacularly situated in a cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or explore the surrounding area as an aid to acclimatization. [3-4 hours walking]

DAY 5: BARRANCO CAMP TO BARAFU CAMP (FULL BOARD)

A steep climb up the eastern wall leads us just below the Heim Glacier, where we may have some spectacular views of Kilimanjaro. We then take a steep exit up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo, the trail continues down into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley. After a short break for a hot lunch, we take a steep climb out of Karanga, and an easy path on compacted scree with wide views through this empty and dry landscape up to Barafu Camp. The two peaks Kibo and Mawenzi can be seen from Barafu Camp. After a hot lunch at the Camp, The remainder of the day is spent resting as we prepare for the final ascent before an early night summit walk.
Barranco Camp to Barafu Camp (4,600 m): 7-9 hours walking.

DAY 6: MAWENZI TURN TO KIBO HUT (FULL BOARD).

We cross the lunar desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo Hut (15,400 ft) at the bottom of the crater wall. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for an early morning final ascent. [5-6 hours walking]

DAY 7: KIBO HUT TO SUMMIT TO HORROMBO HUT (FULL BOARD).

We start the final and most demanding part of the climb by torchlight around 1 a.m. We plod very slowly in the darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman’s Point (18,600 ft). We rest here for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three-hour round trip to Uhuru Peak (19,345 ft), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo Hut (15,400 ft) is surprisingly fast and, after some refreshments, we continue the descent to Horombo Huts (12,200 ft). [11-15 hours walking]

DAY 9: DEPARTING DAY.

After saying bye to our team of guides, then you need a private departure transfer, which is included from Marangu to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight unless you have an option to have a short safari or any other option we will discuss.

Safari Tour Gallery

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FAQS

What should I expect during the game drives in the Serengeti National Park?

During the game drives, you will have the opportunity to explore the vast plains of the Serengeti and spot a wide range of wildlife. This includes herds of wildebeest, zebras, elephants, and predators like lions and leopards. The game drives are conducted in specially designed safari vehicles that offer excellent visibility and comfort.

Will I have access to a knowledgeable guide during the game drives?

Yes, you will be accompanied by an experienced safari guide throughout the game drives. These guides have extensive knowledge about the wildlife, ecosystems, and local culture. They will provide informative commentary and ensure your safety during the safari.

What type of accommodation options are available during the safari?

Accommodation options can vary depending on your preferences and budget. Typically, you can choose between luxury lodges or tented camps located inside or near the national parks. These accommodations offer comfortable amenities, ranging from ensuite bathrooms to dining facilities and scenic views.

Are meals provided during the safari?

Yes, meals are typically provided during the safari. This includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Depending on the itinerary, meals may be served at the accommodation facilities or as picnic lunches during the game drives. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

What wildlife can be seen in the Ngorongoro Crater?

The Ngorongoro Crater is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Additionally, you can spot giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and various bird species. The dense concentration of wildlife within the crater makes it a remarkable safari destination.

Is there a chance to interact with local communities or learn about the culture?

Yes, opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about the Maasai culture can be arranged. This can include visits to Maasai villages, where you can meet the locals, learn about their traditions, and even participate in cultural activities such as dances and crafts.