We avoid the crowded Marangu Route on Kilimanjaro, preferring to approach the mountain from the north by the lightly-used Rongai route. Experienced guides consider this ascent route both the easier and more beautiful than the main Marangu trail. The Rongai route begins in delightful forest, with the possibility of wildlife viewing, and each day of walking progresses thorough a different climate zone, adding considerably to the interest of the trek.
Day 1: Transfer from Arusha to Marangu onto Rongai (2,000 m).
Walk through forest to Camp (2,700 m.) Blue monkeys are sometimes seen. Look for a tiny, red flower called Impatiens kilimanjaris; endemic to Kilimanjaro. Pack lunch en route. Afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at First Cave Camp
Day 2: First Cave to Second Cave
Walk through moorland to the “Second Cave” (3,450 m.), then on to the “Third Cave” (3,900 m.). Pack lunch en route, afternoon tea, dinner and overnight at Second Cave Camp.
Day 3: Second Cave Camp to School Camp
A short and easy day, crossing the lunar desert of the “Saddle” to reach School Campsite (4,750 m.), packed lunch en route. Dinner and overnight at School Camp
Day 4: School Camp to Uhuru Peak (5896m) to Horombo Hut
Start around 2 a.m., climbing steeply to Gillman‟s Point (5685 m) arriving at sunrise. The path to Gillman‟s is the most demanding 4 hours on the whole climb. Continue another 2 hours to the roof of Africa, Uhuru Peak (5895 m). Descend to Kibo and Horombo Hut. Meals and overnight at Horombo Hut (3,720 m)
Day 5: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Descend to Marangu Gate. It is easier to go down than up. Packed lunch on way down, transfer to Moshi/Arusha
