Mount Kilimanjaro climbing is a life time achievement to many.
Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing with its three volcanic cones, “Kibo”, “Mawenzi”, and “Shira”, is a dormant volcano in Tanzania. It is the highest mountain in Africa, with its summit at about 5,895 metres (19,341 ft) above sea level. Nevertheless, the mountain is part of Kilimanjaro National Park and is a major climbing destination. The mountain has been the subject of many scientific studies because of its shrinking glaciers and disappearing ice fields
<p>The Rongai route start at the Gate and then Rongai Cave with an elevation: 6,398 ft to 9,300 ft. We drive from Moshi to Marangu Gate for permits before taking a short transfer to the Rongai Gate trailhead. The path winds through corn and potato fields and then climbs gently through the forest which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the black and white colobus monkey.</p>
<p>Rongai Cave to Second Cave with an elevation: 9,300 ft to 11,300 ft distance of 6 kms</p><p></p><p>We begin this morning with a steady incline up to Second Cave. We continue trekking though moorland, leaving the main trail for a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, before finally arriving at Kikelewa Cave for the night.</p>
<p>Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn with an elevation of 11,811 ft to 14,160 ft and a walking distance of 5 km/3 miles. The hike today is short and steep up a grassy slope. Views of the wilderness area are stunning. As we exit the heath zone and emerge into the Alpine Desert zone, the landscape changes dramatically. Our camp is situated beneath the jagged spires of Mawenzi, at Mawenzi Tarn. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or exploring the area.</p>
<p>Mawenzi Tarn to Mawenzi Ridge with an elevation (ft) of 14,160 ft -14,400 ft and walking distance of 2 km/1 mile taking roughly 1-2 hours. This is an extra day meant for acclimatization and can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp. Alternatively the day can be spent day hiking on Mawenzi Ridge. The unique landscape offers motivating views of Kibo and Mawenzi. After spending a few moments exploring the area we head back to Mawenzi Tarn for camp.</p>
<p>Marwenzi Tarn to Kibo Hut where we cover an elevation (ft) of 14,160 ft to 15,430 ft. A distance of 8 kms is covered in approximately 5-6 hours. We climb gradually, then cross the lunar desert of the “Saddle” between Mawenzi and Kibo. Our camp, Kibo Hut, sits at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall. Once here we rest, enjoy an early dinner to prepare for the summit day.</p>
<p>Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak then to Horombo</p><p></p><p>Very early in the morning (around midnight), we begin our push to the summit. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek. The wind and cold at this elevation and time of day can be extreme. We ascend in the darkness for several hours while taking frequent, but short, breaks. At Gilman’s point (18,600 ft), you will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see coming over Mawenzi Peak. Finally, we arrive at Uhuru Peak- the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and of Africa.</p><p></p><p>After spending a few moments taking in the plains of Africa and your accomplishment, we descend to Horombo Hut. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.</p>
<p>Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate a descend in elevation from 12,205 ft to 6,046 ft a distance of 20 kms distance. This will also be our last day, we have a long trek mostly downhill through the tropical rain forest. Once at the park headquarters at Marangu gate, we collect our summit certificates. A vehicle will meet us here and drive us back to the hotel in Moshi.</p><p></p><p>The end of Rongai route climb</p>
