Rongai – 6 Days
GROUP DEPARTURE/PRIVATE DEPATURES ARE AVAILABLE
Why this itinerary?
For those looking to do a shorter Kilimanjaro trip then this version is generally considered easier than the 6 day Machame route but bear in mind the final ascent is via Gilman’s point and so the final push to Uhuru Peak is actually quite far. We normally recommend the 7 day version for better acclimatization and more interesting route.
Description
A 6 day ascent of Kilimanjaro starting on the Eastern side of Kilimanjaro. This side of the mountain is relatively dry and has a relatively short forest zone. It skirts the base of Mwenzi and then ascends via Gilman’s point to Uhuru Peak. The descent is via the Marangu route trail.
Highlights
Kilimanjaro: views over the Mawenzi and Kibo saddle, close views of Mawenzi, the Kibo crater and ash pit and glaciers on the roof of Africa.
Day 1: KILIMANJARO – RONGAI
In the morning you drive around Kilimanjaro to the Eastern side to Nale Muru to register at the gate. Hiking is through farm and pine plantations and then through afro-montane forest. Overnight Simba Camp (full board).
Day 2: KILIMANJARO – CAVES
Ascent to Second Cave (3450) with views of the Eastern ice fields. After lunch leave main trail and head towards Mawenzi. Kikelewa caves campsite is in sheltered valley. Overnight Kikelewa Caves Camp (full board).
Day 3: KILIMANJARO – MAWENZI
Hike up close to Mawenzi tarn (4330) located in a cirque beneath Mawenzi. In the afternoon you head out for an acclimatization walk with your guide. Overnight Mawenzi Tarn Camp (full board).
Day 4: KILIMANJARO – KIBO
Today you cross the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo in the alpine desert zone. The camp is situated at 4700 meters. In the afternoon it is time to prepare for the night ascent and then an early dinner and to bed for a few hours. Overnight Kibo Camp (full board).
Day 5: KILIMANJARO – HOROMBO
An early start is required to arrive in time for a dawn on the roof of Africa! You ascend Kibo volcano via Gilman’s point (5685m) which takes around 6 to 7 hours. It is then a further 11/2 to 2 hours to the summit and then descent to Kibo for refreshment and refuel and then continue down to Horomob camp. Overnight Horombo Camp (full board).
Day 6: KILIMANJARO – END
The final descent takes you back through the heath zone and forest to the Marangu gate.So here at Gate your team will have prepared another scrumptious and fresh lunch and your transfer vehicles will be waiting to collect you. Here you will say goodbye to our mountain staff before heading to the hotel near Arusha for a farewell dinner and either overnight or a day room and departure.
