The Rongai route up Kilimanjaro is of great attraction to hikers who wish explore the unspoilt sections of the mountain in search of wildlife. It is the only trail to depart from Kilimanjaro’s northern slopes before it ascends directly to Uhuru. During the early days of the hike, trekkers will have incredible views over the Kenyan plains in Amboseli and Tsavo West National Park that abut the slopes of the mountain. This initial portion of the trail is also the region on the mountain where hikers will see the most wildlife, occasionally spotting signs of the elusive forest elephant! The route has a relatively low difficulty level and is perhaps on par with Marangu, save for the comfortable accommodation. The days on this trail are among the shortest, with gentle gradients rather than steep ascents. The trail descends the southern side of the mountain, providing hikers with new views as they scamper down the rocky slopes and through the rainforest.Criticisms of Rongai stem largely from its direct ascent to the top. While other trails ascend and descend as they circle the mountain, Rongai offers less in the way of acclimatization. That said, alternate routes from the northern slopes have been developed in recent years, carrying hikers through more scenic and forgiving passages. These alterations have made the trail’s summiting rate significantly higher, putting it just above the rates of the Marangu Trail. This option is also slightly more expensive than the sister trails, due to the three-hour drive to the starting point.

The following itinerary is our preferred route through Rongai, however a representative from Aventura will discuss this further.

What to pack for Kilimanjaro

Those hiking Kilimanjaro will receive a comprehensive packing list upon booking your tour. The following list will however give you a rough idea of the necessary gear and equipment.

• Layered clothing (wicking material, fleece)
• Light down jacket
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Warm socks
• Trekking socks
• Gaiters
• Brimmed hat
• Warm hat
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp
• Gloves
• Trekking poles
• Day pack with rain cover
• Sleeping bag
• Pillow
• Thermal mat
• Water bottle
• Necessary medication
• Sunscreen
• Small first aid kit (pain killers, band aids etc.)
• Toiletries
• Camera!

Tour Program

Day 1: Welcome to Africa!

You’re finally here! Today you will arrive in the town of Kilimanjaro where an Aventura representative will meet you upon clearing customs. Having caught your first good look at the epic Kilimanjaro as the plane landed, you will now begin preparations for the climb. We will first transfer you to a chosen hotel to begin final packing and preparations. Note that the specific hotel will be decided based on your personal preferences, and lodge availability at the time of booking. Additional information on options will be provided.

The rest of the first day will be spent in preparation for the hike. Aventura team members will provide a final briefing on what to expect and review packed items. Any non-essential hiking items will be stored with Aventura until your return from the mountain. When you are prepared to hike, it will be time for a final dinner and an early night since tomorrow, you will take off early for the base of the mountain!

Day 2: Second Cave Camp (2,650m)

Today an Aventura team member will drive you to the Marangu Gate of Kilimanjaro from your hotel where you will complete the necessary paperwork and registration with your guides, porters and chefs. From here, we will get back in the car to drive another three hours through local villages to the town of Rongai. Depending on your time of arrival – and your stomachs, – you may choose to have lunch here before setting off up the trail. This route begins by following a small trail out of the village of Nale Moru (1950m). You will weave initially through village’s maize and potato fields before entering the pine forest.

The rest of the day will be spent within the forest climbing up a gentle gradient for roughly 9km. These trees are home to numerous monkeys, birds and antelope, which will provide entertainment as you ascend quietly through their home. It is also within this section that you have the greatest chance of seeing bigger wildlife, with the occasionally lucky hiker running into signs of the resident forest elephants! This forest section receives much less precipitation than the southern routes, making it especially well-suited to hikers who wish to climb during the rainy season.

You and your team will stop for snacks during this 3 – 4 hour hike on the side of one of the rivers or small waterfalls that snake through the region. As the forest thins, you will know you are approaching your first goal: Second Cave Camp! This campsite is at times surprisingly busy; however, tomorrow hikers will begin to dissipate as they choose different variations on the Rongai Route.

Day 3: Kikelewa Caves (3,600m)

Today’s hike will be one of your greatest ascents as you travel across the moorland towards the jagged tips of Mawenzi. Covering 9km in approximately 6 – 7 hours, this will be the longest day of the trip; however, you will be rewarded with great views the whole day through. Mawenzi, one of Kilimanjaro’s three peaks, will be visible for the majority of the day, with Kibo – your ultimate goal – occasionally popping into the distance. On clear days, hikers can also see right down to the plains of Kenya’s Amboseli and Tsavo West National Parks, which exist in stark contrast to your mountainous surroundings. Otherwise, take time throughout the day to admire the tiny bursts of colour that exist among this dusty landscape, as you pace yourself up an increasingly steep pitch.

As the ascent levels out, you will hike in search of today’s perfect picnic spot. Having completed much of the climb in the morning, the afternoon will meander through the heathland before camping at the Kikelewa Caves. From tonight’s campsite, you will have an excellent view of your mission tomorrow: reaching the Mawenzi Tarn. After an early dinner, you might want to spend a bit of time admiring the uninterrupted starry night sky before retiring to the tent.

Day 4: Mawenzi Tarn (4,330m)

After yesterday’s challenging ascent, today your body will have a day of relative rest. From Mawenzi Tarn, we are only a 3 – 4 hour hike (6km) from our next goal at the base of the jagged and theatrical Mawenzi peak. After a short but steep ascent through grassy slopes, we will cross into a rugged and raw landscape. Pay attention along the way for a series of stone statues created by earlier hikers as encouragement. Today you will be in the heart of the moorland, the second major climactic zone.

As the trail starts to steepen, you will know that you are reaching today’s campsite. Mawenzi Tarn is possibly Kilimanjaro’s best campsite, and you should reach it in time for a hot lunch near a tiny lake – the only permanent lake on Kili. The sharp peaks of Mawenzi offer great contrast to the smooth top of Kibo. You will spend the afternoon exploring and acclimatizing in the ridges of Mawenzi, ascending and descending in preparation for summiting. As the day winds to a close, join your team back at camp for a warm dinner before snuggling into your tent. The temperatures will certainly begin to drop at night at this altitude.

Day 5: Kibo Hut (4,700m)

Today we will rise to cross the alpine desert that acts as a saddle between Maweni and Kibo. This stretch of the hike carries you across a dramatic lunar landscape where only the toughest of grasses are able to survive. Windswept and barren, this 4 – 5 hour hike will sit in stark contrast to earlier climactic zones.

The highlight of today’s hike will come as you climb a small ridge and get your first clear views of Uhuru Peak. You will walk in the shadow of Uhuru for the rest of the morning, rounding up on Kibo Huts for lunch. Here you will meet up with many hikers from the Marangu Route as they prepare for tomorrow’s ascent. Soft drinks and chocolate are available for purchase at this campsite – as is a bed – but we recommend waiting to celebrate until after the descent tomorrow. Tonight it will be early to bed in order to catch the sunrise in the morning.

Dat 6: Uhuru Peak (5,895m) to Horombo Huts (3,700m)

At midnight, you will rise alongside the hikers from Marangu Route to summit Kilimajaro. Fueled (and warmed) by tea and biscuits, you will begin the final ascent with a torch and the light of the moon. Falling in line with a trail of other lights progressing up the hill, this initial portion has a magical feeling to it. Though early, the anticipation of watching the sunrise from the top of Africa is motivation enough to push through this chilly and challenging hike. A rocky path will carry hikers to the Hans Meyer Cave, which is a welcome sheltered resting point. From there, it is a zigzagged trail to Gillman’s Point, which sits on the crater rim. It is the most challenging aspect of the entire route, but with time and mental stamina, it is entirely possible. As snow forms on the ground and you approach the glaciers, sheer exhilaration will overtake the exhaustion – the summit and sunrise is near! The weather conditions will determine the amount of time you are able to spend at the top – and this is often unpredictable.

Over the course of the final 5.5km ascent to Uhuru (“Freedom”) Peak, you will bear witness to one of the most beautiful sunrises of your life. 1 – 2 hours later, you will finally step onto the peak itself – the absolute roof of Africa. Rest while you can and soak in the spectacular view and impressive accomplishment of having summited, and then descend the glacier to avoid the very chilly winds.

At this point, your legs will shift gears and begin the two-day descent of the mountain. Stopping first at Kibo huts, you will pause to rest your knees, collect your gear and enjoy breakfast and coffee. From there, you will carry on down to Horombo Huts over approximately three hours. Though tired, the increase in oxygen and temperatures – along with the motivation of a soft drink or beer – will power you down this final pitch. Enjoy dinner at this busy camp, swapping stories with a multitude of hikers before crashing into bed.

Day 7: Marangu Gates to Kilimajaro or Arusha

Today, your tired bodies will make the final 6-hour descent to the Marangu Gate where your vehicle will await your arrival. This trail will carry you through more moorland and then deep into the lush montane forest – a final landscape for you to explore, energy permitting. Significantly lusher than the initial pine forests of the ascent, this well established trail will wind between rivers and small waterfalls covering approximately 20km in five hours.

At the bottom, hikers are rewarded with summit certificates before heading back to your hotel for a hot shower, hot meal and celebrations before collapsing in a soft warm bed. Again, we will provide a variety of lodging options for you to select from, depending on your preferences.

Day 8: Onwards!

Having recovered from the hike today you will either begin your journey home – or onwards to another fantastic location in Tanzania! We strongly recommend coupling a hike up Kilimanjaro with a few days unwinding and relaxing on the tranquil shores of the Zanzibar Archipelago. Aventura will coordinate either a transfer to your outbound airport, or transfers on to additional packages.

No matter where you choose to continue on to, today you can feel incredibly proud of yourself for conquering the tallest mountain in Africa. Congratulations!End of Tour

Includes

• All accommodation, on a full board basis
• Airport welcome
• All domestic transfers (air and road)
• Some activities, as indicated in your tour package
• Soft drinks, house wine, local spirits, local beers, tea and coffee
• Laundry, communication and internet access are included at some destinations, as noted in your tour package

Excludes

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Premium brand wine, beer and spirits
• Additional activities
• Gratuities
• Costs associated with obtaining visas or passports
• Airport departure taxes and excess baggage charges

CONTENTS

1. Tours with Aventura
2. Visiting Tanzania
3. Travel Logistics
4. Price, Payment and Cash
5. Communication
6. Health and Safety

TOUR WITH AVENTURA

• How far in advance should I book my tour?

Aventura will work to accommodate you whenever you make your booking with us. Provided there is space at our partnering lodges, we can work on very short notice. However, ideally our guests will book roughly 6 months – 1 year in advance of their vacation.

• Do you allow children on Aventura tours?

Definitely! Many of our partnering lodges have accommodation and child friendly options that we will gladly connect you with – just let us know you want to bring children ahead of time. Some of our partnering lodges do have policies that prohibit children on particular activities/locations so we will be sure to work around that.

• Who guides the tours?

Aventura will fully organize your entire tour with various local lodges, and your guides will be provided from these particular lodges. If your tour is to various national parks and lodges, your guide and vehicles will change from location to location, and Aventura will ensure that these transitions are flawless. We have worked thoroughly with each of our partners to ensure every guide and driver is of top quality and able to reflect the values of Aventura.

• Do you provide references from people who have been on tours with you?

Absolutely! You can see some guest testimonials on our website and we are building a profile on Your African Safari, a website devoted to independently reviewing operators across Africa. If you would like to speak directly with past guests, we will also happily make that connection for you.

• Is there electricity? Will I be able to recharge cameras/phones?

Yes, there is electricity though it may not be available 24 hours a day. Many of our partnering lodges run off solar energy or generators, which means they have to conserve usage during certain hours of the day. You will however always have at least a few hours a day where you are able to re-charge camera and cell phone batteries.

• Are there opportunities to meet with local people?

Definitely! Most of our tour packages incorporate at least one visit to a local village, where you can meet with and learn about various Tanzanian tribes and individuals. If you are very interested in a cultural tour of Tanzania, are also able to build you a customized tour that exposes you to the various facets of the population. Check out our Bespoke options for more information!

• Is there laundry?

The majority – though not all – of our partnering lodges do offer a laundry service. The availability and cost differs between locations, and we will provide specifics about access in your particular tour package.

VISITING TANXANIA

• What visa do I need for Tanzania?

The visa required for entry into Tanzania depends on what country you are traveling from. Since immigration policies change frequently, we recommend that you contact the Tanzanian embassy in your home country at least 2 months prior to departure to confirm the most recent requirements.

• When is the best time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Hikers climb Kilimanjaro year round, but many prefer to climb it during the driest and warmest months (January – February, July – September). These months do however mean that there are high crowds – if you prefer a quieter hike, June, October and December have moderate temperatures and moderate precipitation. March – May and November are among the coolest and wettest months in the country and consequently the quietest on the mountain.

• How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?

Kilimanjaro is the highest ‘walkable’ mountain, meaning that no technical hiking experience is required. In spite of its incredible height, guides recommend only a basic level of fitness and strong motivation. Many say the greatest challenge of the hike is adjusting to the altitude. Depending on your fitness level, we offer four possible trails that vary in difficulty for you to choose between.

• When is the best time to view wildlife in Tanzania?

The dry season in Tanzania (June – October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, since animals concentrate around limited waterholes and there is less vegetation obstructing views. Birding however is better during the northern winter (November – March) when rainfall is high and over 160 species of birds migrate south.

• When is the best time to view the wildebeest migration?

The wildebeest migration follows annual rain patterns that push wildlife to search for greener pastures. This means that specific predictions about when and where the migration will be are difficult. However, in a typical year, guests have the best chance of viewing the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti in June and July. If you are interested in seeing the wildebeest calving, the best time to visit is late January – February.

• When is the best time to visit the islands?

The archipelago is popular year round, with August – October being among the most popular months. There are long rains between March and May that may make the coast somewhat less idyllic.

• Is Zanzibar in the same country as Tanzania?

Yes, they have been part of the same country since 1963, though the region is semi-autonomous.

• What kind of plug is used in Tanzania?

Tanzania uses the same outlets as are found in the United Kingdom – A Type G 3 pronged flat pin plug (see Figure 1). Occasionally Tanzanians also use the Old British plug – A Type D 3 pronged circular pin (see Figure 2). The voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. We recommend purchasing at least one travel adaptor prior to departing for Tanzania.

TRAVEL LOGISTIC

• Do you handle airline tickets?

Airline tickets are not included in the packages we offer, but we can offer support in booking tickets for our guests. Please let us know if you would like assistance here.

• Do you handle travel insurance?

We do not book insurance for our clients; however, we will help you find a provider that suits your particular needs. We recommend all guests read the following document published by ABTA on selecting an insurance provider, and if you would like additional guidance please reach out to us.

• How do we get around once in Tanzania?

Aventura will organize all local transport associated with your tour, beginning with an airport pickup minute you land on Tanzanian soil. All transport costs are included in your package. Depending on your particular package, transport may involve domestic flights, road transfers and boats. Particular details of your transport will be included in your package details upon booking.

• Is there a suggested packing list?

Of course! Once you have selected a package with us, we will email you a packing list that is tailored perfectly to your particular activities. However, in general we recommend the following items:

• • Long loose light coloured clothing, offering protection from insects and sun
  • A fleece sweater for chilly evenings
  • Wide brimmed hat, sunglasses
  • Bathing suit and sarong
  • Comfortable walking shoes, hiking boots if climbing Kilimanjaro
  • Thermal underwear, if climbing Kilimanjaro

• Are there luggage limits?

International airlines will independently set baggage restrictions and it is important you check with your airline prior to departing. Once in Tanzania, baggage restrictions will depend on your particular tour package. We will include customized baggage restrictions with your customized packing list upon booking your flight.

PRICE, PAYMENT & CASH

• What if I have to cancel my reservation?

Cancellation policies vary depending on the lodges in which you are booked and specifics will be provided upon booking.

• What is included in the tour price?

Your tour price includes the following:

• • Meet and greet service upon arrival
  • Transfers as shown
  • Exclusive use of 4×4 safari vehicles with photo roof during the safari portion
  • Services of English speaking drivers and guides
  • Meals and accommodation as specified (varies between packages)
  • All park fees and government taxes
  • One bottle of water per day on game drives

• What is not included in the tour price?

Your tour price does not include the following items:

• • International flights
  • Airport taxes on any flights not booked through Aventura
  • Passport and visa fees
  • Gratuities
  • Activities not included on the itinerary
  • Personal travel, baggage and medical insurance
  • Laundry (varies between packages, as some lodges build this into their cost)
  • Telephone bills and items of a personal nature
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal shopping
  • Select alcoholic beverages
  • Gear (walking stick, flashlight, hat, sunglasses, bed mats etc.)

• Can’t we save money by booking with the lodges directly?

No. The benefit to booking through Aventura is that we are able to use our industry connections to secure discounted rates with various lodges, hotels and transport providers within the country. While you will pay a small service fee to our company, this fee will save you the headache and complications of organizing a trip on your own. This fee also ensure that your entire trip will run smoothly, and that no minute of your vacation is wasted with negotiations, disappointments or frustrations.

• Do you accept credit cards?

Absolutely! We are fully equipped to accept payments online from all major credit cards.

• Do I need to bring cash with me? Which currency should I bring?

Yes, you should bring additional cash for personal purchases. We recommend bringing US Dollars (issued after 2003) and converting them into Tanzanian Shillings upon arrival. It is possible to convert Travellers Cheques in major cities as well, but these are often more hassle than they are worth. You are also able to use local ATMs to make withdrawals off your credit card in our local currency. Be sure you alert your bank if you plan to use your credit card abroad, and that you confirm charges for international transactions and withdrawals.

COMMUNICATION

• What language is spoken in Tanzania?

English and Swahili are the national languages. All tourism operators, and most Tanzanians, will speak English.

• Is there cell phone reception?

Most of our lodges are located in regions of Tanzania that have reception (though of course, not all of them). Lodge staff will always have a means of communicating with our head office.

• Is there internet available?

Internet is available at some of our partnering lodges, though not many. Details regarding internet accessibility will be included in your particular package details. Should you require constant access, we recommend researching data roaming packages with your local cell phone provider.

• What if there is an emergency at home?

We will provide you with an emergency number that you can pass on to friends and family at home. Should there be an in emergency at home, they can contact the Aventura Head Office and we will connect to you – wherever you are – as quickly as possible. Depending on the nature of the emergency, we will take steps to connect you to friends and family at home.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• Is it safe to visit Tanzania?

Tanzania is safe to visit, however there are always risks taken when traveling. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is of paramount importance when designing a tour and we will be sure to have you stay only in reputable locations and provide transport only from trusted sources. We brief every guest on safety policies and procedures, in addition to risk mitigation strategies.

• What vaccinations do I need?

We recommend that all guests visit a local travel clinic prior to departure, where a medical professional can review your medical history and explain the vaccination options. Visitors to Tanzania must be able to show a Yellow Fever vaccination card upon arrival, otherwise you will likely be vaccinated at the airport.

• Is malaria a concern?

Tanzania does have malaria and we strongly recommend guests take appropriate prophylaxis, which can be prescribed by a local travel doctor.

• Where does drinking water come from?

Guests will always have access to ample amounts of treated bottled water.

• Is the food safe to eat?

Yes. We work with lodges that we know intimately, and have reviewed not only for comfort but also for their quality of food. Partnering lodges will serve delicious balanced meals prepared by expert chefs using fresh and safe ingredients.

• I have special dietary needs – will I be accommodated?

Definitely – but please make us aware of any dietary needs as far in advance as possible so that we can work with you and our partnering lodges to develop a tour that accommodates your needs.

Reviews

How to book a safari with us:

You can Email us on: info@aventurasafaris.com, or contact us via phone on: +255 (0)762 493 434 | +44 (0) 800 7561 114 or reach us via our website enquiry form. Giving us as much detail and information as possible about what you are looking for and any extra add-ons you might require.

Let us know the following:

• The month you are interested experiencing the dream come true
• The length of time you will want to enjoy your safari
• Number of people who will share this life experience with you
• Style of lodging you would like to use during your trip – you just mention what and we will arrange it for you
• Extra activities besides wildlife viewing. For example: go up in a balloon, take a walk in the bush, a canoe ride, or night game drives
• Any special requests you have for your wildlife safari

Create you safari plan, then book:

Together we will create your safari as you want it to be. The safari plan will accommodate your interests
and time schedule. We enjoy talking to you about your trip, so please provide us with your phone number.

Once you have agreed to our safari proposal:

By signing our invoice sent to you and accepting the terms and conditions of Aventura Safaris Ltd.

Get your travel dates fixed:

This will give us chance to start checking the availability of the accommodations of your choice. Traveling from/to the Americas and Asia takes about 2 days; from most of Europe, one day.

Confirm your Safari with us:

We will start booking the lodges and camps of choice for your safari. Once we have all the lodges confirmed then you can pay the deposit.

Place a deposit with us:

Once we have confirmed the lodges and activities of your choice, a deposit of 30% is required. The deposit can be made by wire transfer to our bank, by certified check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or PayPal. Your other payments will be specified in the safari plan we will send you – generally at 90 and 45 days before the start of your safari.

Once we have a confirmed itinerary for you and us to work from, you should make your international travel reservations. We also strongly recommend that you obtain adequate travel insurance to protect you against any unforeseen problems.

Following the receipt of your deposit, we will send you a package containing: your confirmed itinerary, acknowledgement of your deposit, and information about safaris and how to prepare for your adventure. We will also provide contact telephone numbers for you to leave with family or friends to use should they need to reach you while on safari.