Rongai Route, Gold Level Premium Climb (On Request)

Rongai Route, Gold Level Premium Climb (On Request)

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8 Days From

$6991

Rongai Route, Gold Level Premium Climb (On Request)

8 Days Starting and ending in Arusha, Tanzania

Visiting: Arusha, Kilimanjaro National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro

Tour operator:

ARP Travel Group

Tour code:

437039

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

CHALLENGING

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English , German
From: $6991

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Rongai Route, Gold Level Premium Climb in Tanzania. This exclusive journey offers a unique opportunity to explore Kilimanjaro's majestic landscapes, starting from the northern side and passing by the awe-inspiring Mawenzi, one of the mountain's three volcanic cones. Experience the thrill of trekking through diverse terrains, from lush forests to rocky semi-deserts, with the guidance of experienced, English- and German-speaking mountain crews. Enjoy the comfort of superior accommodations, including hotel stays and camp nights, with all necessary equipment provided. Delight in three daily meals featuring a variety of fresh and hearty options. The descent through Marangu allows you to witness both sides of the mountain, culminating in a triumphant ascent to Uhuru Peak. With comprehensive support, including porters, first aid, and insurance, this climb promises a safe and rewarding experience for all adventurers.

Highlights

  • Rongai Route offers a unique path by Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro's volcanic cones.

  • Experience both sides of Kilimanjaro by ascending via Rongai and descending through Marangu.

  • Trek through diverse landscapes, from coniferous forests to rocky semideserts.

  • Reach the summit of Uhuru Peak, the highest point in Africa, at 5,895 meters.

  • Enjoy acclimatization hikes to enhance your chances of a successful summit.

  • Witness the stunning views of Kibo Volcano from Kikilewa Camp.

  • Explore the foot of Mawenzi Volcano at Mawenzi Tarn Camp.

Places You'll See

Arusha

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha Area (45Km – 1Hr)

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Location: Arusha

Accommodation Name: Onsea House or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be met by our representative, and transferred to the hotel. In the evening, join the briefing with the climb representatives, who will share various information or you upcoming climb and ensure you are ready to embark on your adventure (For the kit list please refer to the ‘What do I need to bring section’). Please note the check-in starts at 02:00 pm.


Overnight in Arusha area.


Day 2 : Nalemuru Gate – Simba Camp (Hiking 8Km – 3/4Hrs)

Location: Kilimanjaro National Park

Accommodation Name: Simba Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


A guide and a mountain support crew will arrive at the hotel in the morning in order to meet you and hold a quick briefing, after which you will travel by vehicle to Kilimanjaro National Park's northern entrance: Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m). After the quick formality of acquiring climbing permits and registering with the search and rescue service, the group will start trekking up to Simba Camp (2,625 m). Your trek this day will be moderate and take you through the coniferous forest up Kilimanjaro's northern slope. Remember not to hurry and always keep a comfortable pace. By the time you reach the camp, our professional mountain crew will prepare everything necessary, put tents and cook dinner for you. Change in Elevation: Nalemuru Gate (2,020 m) – Simba Camp (2,625 m). Hiking distance: 8 km. Hiking time: 3–4 hours. Alternatively, you can choose to add an extra acclimatization night (upon an additional cost): 


Extra Acclimatization Night (Between Day 2 & Day 3): Early in the morning after breakfast, the group will depart from Simba Camp to start trekking towards your second high altitude camp: Second Cave Camp (3,480 m). This route is rather easy and will only take around 3 hours, so when you reach the camp you will still have ample time to rest and explore the surrounding area. After lunch, you will have a couple of hours to rest, followed by an acclimatization hike in the direction of Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) with a 100-meter gain in altitude, after which you will hike back down to Second Cave Camp. Trekking from Simba Camp to Second Cave Camp: Change in Elevation: Simba Camp (2,625 m) — Second Cave Camp (3,480 m). Hiking distance: 4 km. Hiking time: 2–3 hours. Acclimatization hike: Change in Elevation: Second Cave Camp (3,480 m) — Destination point en route to Kikilewa Camp (3,580 m). Hiking distance: 2.5 km. Hiking time: 1–2 hours. Please note that if you select this option, the services will be moved one day ahead.


Overnight in Simba Camp.


Day 3 : Simba Camp – Kikilewa Camp (Hiking 10Km – 5/6Hrs)

Location: Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation Name: Kikilewa Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Early in the morning after breakfast, the group will depart from Simba Camp to start trekking towards your second high altitude camp: Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) where you can see Kibo Volcano at its finest (barring cloudy weather). This trekking is more physically demanding than the previous one, so once you are in the camp, full rest is recommended. Change in Elevation: Simba Camp (2,625 m) – Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m). Hiking distance: 10 km. Hiking time: 5–6 hours.


Overnight in Kikilewa Camp.


Day 4 : Kikilewa Camp – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (Hiking 6Km – 4/5Hrs)

Location: Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation Name: Mawenzi Tarn Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Early wakeup, breakfast and the start of trekking to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, which is situated at the foot of Mawenzi Volcano, Kilimanjaro's second summit. When you reach the camp, you will have lunch and a two-hour rest, after which there will be an acclimatization hike towards Mawenzi Volcano with a 200-meter gain in altitude, followed by a hike back down to Mawenzi Tarn Camp, where you will have dinner in the evening. Trekking from Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp: Change in Elevation: Kikilewa Camp (3,630 m) – Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m). Hiking distance: 6 km. Hiking time: 4–5 hours. Acclimatization hike: Change in Elevation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m) – Destination point en route to Mawenzi Volcano (4,510 m). Hiking distance: 2 km. Hiking time: 1–2 hours.


Overnight in Mawenzi Tarn Camp.


Day 5 : Mawenzi Tarn Camp – School Hut Camp (Hiking 9Km – 5/6Hrs)

Location: Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation Name: School Hut Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


This day will be spent trekking towards School Hut Camp (4,715 m). The landscape will change significantly to give way to a rocky semidesert. The actual trekking is not very difficult; just remember to stick with an appropriate pace to keep up your strength for the trekking to Kilimanjaro's summit. When you reach the camp, we recommend you sleep well, avoid strenuous activity, and drink as much as you can, because that very night you will be ascending Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Change in Elevation: Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4,310 m) – School Hut Camp (4,715 m). Hiking distance: 9 km. Hiking time: 5–6 hours. 


Overnight in School Hut Camp.


Day 6 : Uhuru Peak – Descent Horombo Camp (Hiking 21Km – 12/14Hrs)

Location: Mount Kilimanjaro

Accommodation Name: Horombo Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Night departure from School Hut Camp (4,715 m) and the start of your trekking to Kilimanjaro's summit: Uhuru peak (5,895 m). The trekking will be moderate from a physical standpoint, but the altitude presents a much more serious problem. For the entire length of the trekking, each pair of climbers will be accompanied by their own guide, who will be monitoring your stamina and mental resolve. After your successful ascent to Uhuru Peak, you can descend to the nearest glacier if desired. Then you will return to Kibo Camp and after a two-hour rest continue your descent to Horombo Camp (3,720 m). Change in Elevation: School Hut Camp (4,715 m) – Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) – Horombo Camp (3,720 m). Hiking distance: 21 km. Hiking time: 12–14 hours.


Overnight in Horombo Camp.


Day 7 : Descent Horombo Camp – Marangu Gate (18Km – 5/6Hrs) – Arusha Area

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Location: Arusha

Accommodation Name: Onsea House or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast


You will be offered a warm breakfast in the morning, after which we will head for the Kilimanjaro National Park's exit: Marangu Gate (1,860 m). After your descent, the whole group will gather to congratulate you, and then you will have the chance to share your opinions on the trip in the guestbook. Lastly, we will present you with your commemorative certificates (in our office) and provide you with a transfer back to the hotel. Change in Elevation: Horombo Camp (3,720 m) – Marangu Gate (1,860 m). Hiking distance: 18 km. Hiking time: 5–6 hours.  


Overnight in Arusha area.


Day 8 : Arusha Area – Departure Kilimanjaro (45Km – 1Hr)

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Location: Arusha

Meals Included: Breakfast


Indulge in a tasty breakfast and then transfer to the airport. Please note that the hotel check-out is at 11:00 am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee (available as an optional extra).


What's Included

  • Tour Guide

    Operated with English- and German-speaking professional mountain crew. All guides have 'Wilderness First Responder' and 'Wilderness First Aid' certificates, along with over 7 years of experience in climbing.

  • Accommodation

    Includes 2 nights' hotel accommodation and 5 nights' camp accommodation.

  • Meals

    3 square meals daily on the mountain, including a variety of soups, garnishes, fish, meat, fresh fruit, and vegetables. Breakfasts at the hotel before and after the ascent.

  • Transport

    Arrival and departure shared transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle from/to Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to the trailhead, and transfer to the hotel.

  • Entrance Fees & Activities

    All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, including various hikes from Nalemuru Gate to Marangu Gate.

  • Other

    Includes Meet & Greet at Kilimanjaro International Airport, porter for each participant, Kilimanjaro National Park permits and rescue fees, camping/hut fees, modern tents, oxygen systems, first aid kit, sleeping pads, group equipment, and more.

What's Not Included

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees are not included in the tour package.

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included.

  • Meals at Hotel

    Lunch and dinner at the hotel before and after the ascent are not included.

  • Personal Gear Rentals

    Rentals for personal gear are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips for the mountain crew are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.

    , is not included.

Requirements

Passengers arriving in Tanzania may be asked to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. Travellers’ cheques are generally not accepted in East Africa. US banknotes cannot be older than 2004 and must have the latest security markings (large portrait of the president).


KIT LIST:


  • Small backpack (20–40 litres) for your daily necessities
  • Large duffel bag for your belongings, which will be carried by a porter (80–120 litres)
  • Sleeping bag (designed for up to -15°C)
  • Rain poncho, a water-proof covering for your backpack 
  • Hiking boots with a water-repellent layer and good protector 
  • Gym shoes for the first days of the climb and to change at the camp 
  • Hiking pants for the first days of the climb (2 pairs) 
  • Waterproof pants
  • Warm ski pants (designed for -15°C)
  • T-shirts, long sleeve shirts (4–5 pieces) 
  • Soft-shell or fleece jacket 
  • Windproof jacket
  • Insulated jacket for -15°C is an absolute necessity for the final ascent to the summit
  • Thermal underwear for active sports (preferably 2 pairs)
  • Light trekking gloves
  • Mittens/gloves designed for -15°C for the final ascent to the summit
  • Hiking socks (4–5 pairs)
  • Gaiters for protection against dust/snow
  • Cap/Panama hat/hat to protect your face and neck against the equatorial sun
  • Fleece hat
  • Balaclava for wind protection during the final summit ascent
  • Alpine sunglasses or googles 
  • Headlamp + extra batteries 
  • Trekking poles 
  • Water flasks (2 litres in total); the flask may be substituted by a water bladder installed in your backpack 
  • SPF 40-50+ sunblock 
  • Lip balm
  • Towel, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush
  • Personal medication in case of a chronic disease
  • Snacks and energy bars, chocolate and nuts

Please Note

  • On Day 1, the check-in starts from 02:00 pm
  • On the last day, the check-out is at 11:00 am. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee (available as an optional extra)
  • There is no guarantee that you will be part of a group, or part of the same group during the tour
  • Please note that if you select the Extra Acclimatization Night, the services will be moved one day ahead
  • On your first day at this altitude, it is strongly recommended you heed the following instructions from this point on (1) Abstain from consuming alcohol and caffeine (2) Drink over 4 litres of bottled water daily (little by little, frequently). At night you may experience discomfort associated with acclimatization to the high altitude: because of a reduction in your waking breathing pattern, your body gets less oxygen than during the day. Taking altitude into account, you may therefore start feeling sick and have a headache. Pay attention to your own body and tell your guide if you start feeling any symptoms of altitude sickness
  • Day 4: The acclimatization hike is an easy trek with a slight gain in altitude done in order to speed up the acclimatization process. You should take the acclimatization hikes very seriously. They help increase your chances of successfully summiting Kilimanjaro and save you from the consequences of altitude sickness
  • Day 6: 90% of all accidents occur during descent. Please pay attention to your feet, as there is a high risk of damaging your toenails
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
  • Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed
  • In many hotels in Tanzania, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed. Their comfort conditions are lower than the international standards of the triple room
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed  

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1, 7 Arusha area

  • Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*

Day 2 Simba Camp

  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 3 Kikilewa Camp

  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 4 Mawenzi Camp

  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 5 School Hut Camp

  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 6 Horombo Camp

  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

OPTIONAL EXTRA:

Post-night Arusha area

  • Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS


Day 1, 7 Arusha area


  • Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*

Day 2 Simba Camp


  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 3 Kikilewa Camp


  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 4 Mawenzi Camp


  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 5 School Hut Camp


  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

Day 6 Horombo Camp


  • Superior Hotel Category = Superior Tent | Standard Camp or similar

OPTIONAL EXTRA:


Post-night Arusha area


  • Superior Hotel Category = Onsea House or similar 4*

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with shared air-conditioned vehicle transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel, and to the trailhead for your climb. Return transfers to the hotel are also included, ensuring a seamless journey.

Accommodation

Enjoy a blend of comfort and adventure with 2 nights in a superior hotel in the Arusha area and 5 nights camping in superior tents at various camps along the Rongai Route, including Simba, Kikilewa, Mawenzi, School Hut, and Horombo Camps.

Check out our Q&As

  • What languages do the tour guides speak?

    The tour is operated with English- and German-speaking professional mountain crew.

  • What kind of experience do the tour guides have?

    All guides have 'Wilderness First Responder' and 'Wilderness First Aid' certificates, along with over 7 years of experience in climbing.

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 2 nights of hotel accommodation and 5 nights of camp accommodation. The hotel accommodation is in the Arusha area, and the camp accommodation includes stays at Simba Camp, Kikilewa Camp, Mawenzi Camp, School Hut Camp, and Horombo Camp.

  • What meals are included during the climb?

    Three square meals are provided daily on the mountain, including different soups, garnishes, several types of fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as juices, hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and water. Breakfasts are also provided at the hotel before and after the ascent.

  • What is the role of the porter during the climb?

    Each participant will be provided with a porter who can carry up to 15 kg of personal baggage.

  • What safety equipment is provided during the climb?

    The tour provides oxygen systems, pulse oximeters, a first aid kit, and an Iridium 9575 Extreme satellite phone for uninterrupted contact with the support team.

  • What is the itinerary for the climb?

    The itinerary includes hiking from Nalemuru Gate to Simba Camp on Day 2, from Simba Camp to Kikilewa Camp on Day 3, from Kikilewa Camp to Mawenzi Tarn Camp on Day 4, from Mawenzi Tarn Camp to School Hut Camp on Day 5, ascending to Uhuru Peak and descending to Horombo Camp on Day 6, and descending from Horombo Camp to Marangu Gate on Day 7.

  • What is the highest point reached during the climb?

    The highest point reached during the climb is Uhuru Peak, which is at an elevation of 5,895 meters.

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Thursday

Dec 26, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025
$6991

Friday - Friday

Dec 27, 2024 - Jan 03, 2025
$6991

Saturday - Saturday

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025
$6991

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 29, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025
$6991

Monday - Monday

Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 06, 2025
$6991

Tuesday - Tuesday

Dec 31, 2024 - Jan 07, 2025
$6991

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    ARP Travel Group requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of arp travel group charges.

    At 24 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.