Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route
Experience Overview
With a gentle gradient and sense of untouched wilderness, the Rongai Route approaches Kilimanjaro from the north and is less crowded than the most popular trails. We trek through farmlands, forest and alpine moorlands as we approach the beautiful summit cone. This route allows an extra day for acclimatisation under the imposing spires of Mawenzi before the arduous final ascent. The last climb begins in darkness but our reward is an incomparable dawn vista over the sweeping East African plains.
Profile
— Accommodation: 2 Classic nights (hotels), 5 Simple nights (full-service camping) — Six days’ trekking with steep ascents and descents — Full porterage throughout — Altitude maximum: 19,340ft (5,895m); average: 13,125ft (4,000m) — Full moon, new moon and female crew departures available (see Dates & Prices) — Zanzibar and safari extensions available — Exodus is a member of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP)
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 2 Classic nights (hotels), 5 Simple nights (full-service camping) — Six days’ trekking with steep ascents and descents — Full porterage throughout — Altitude maximum: 19,340ft (5,895m); average: 13,125ft (4,000m) — Full moon, new moon and female crew departures available (see Dates & Prices) — Zanzibar and safari extensions available — Exodus is a member of the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP)
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 6 (Challenging & Tough). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
The summit day is graded Activity Level 7 (Tough) because of the high altitude and the level of physical effort needed. Please be aware many people find this day on Kilimanjaro the toughest physical challenge of their life. The rest of the trek is graded Activity Level 5 (Challenging), more as a consequence of the high altitude and extended wilderness camping than the difficulty of walking; hence the overall grading of this trek as Activity Level 6 (Challenging/Tough).
Walking conditions: This is a hard trek, which reaches an altitude of 19,340ft (5,895m). Even if you consider yourself fit, you might still find the climb very hard, depending on how well your body acclimatises to high altitude. There is no scientific way to determine how easily you acclimatise and the acclimatisation process can differ from climb to climb. Please note, walking hours stated are given as approximates only. Timings stated in the itinerary include lunch and photo stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Route: We avoid the more crowded Marangu and Machame routes, preferring to approach the mountain from the north by the Rongai (Nale Moru) Route, which is considered to be an easier ascent than the main trails. We also add an extra day to the standard five-day itinerary to ensure maximum acclimatisation and to give ourselves the best possible chance of enjoying the magnificent scenery. Recent statistics indicate that the chance of reaching the summit increases by at least 20 percent if an extra day is spent acclimatising.
Last year, our groups on the Rongai Route demonstrated that this is the best six-day route on Kilimanjaro for reaching the summit. During that time, 88 percent of our clients reached Gilman’s Point and 79 percent reached Uhuru Peak, the true summit of Kilimanjaro.
Trails: Most are well defined and good quality but some forest sections can be slippery and moorland paths can become very wet in poor weather conditions. The final ascent to Uhuru Peak is almost exclusively on scree and loose rock without permanent footpaths but no technical skills are required.
Conditions: We spend time at both high and low altitude, experiencing extremely cold and quite hot conditions. You should be prepared for an early start every day on Kilimanjaro.
Group Description
A licenced Kilimanjaro Chief Guide is your leader. They will meet you upon arrival and give a briefing at the hotel on Day 1. During the climb, the leader is joined by assistant guides, cooks and porters. Exodus has a high guiding ratio on the mountain: one guide for every two clients. This is especially important on summit day where you may be feeling very tired. The guides are extremely experienced and are well trained in spotting the effects of altitude. Their guidance is often key to maximising your chances of reaching the summit.
Please note in the unlikely event this trip runs on one or two, we reserve the right to offer a free transfer to another date or to join a group on the same date made up of international clients from other companies.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, six lunches and five dinners are included. All meals during the climb are included. Please allow about 153,500 Tanzanian shillings (US$65) for the meals not included.
On trek, the emphasis is on a varied and well-balanced diet with a greater amount of fresh fruit and soup to maximise the daily intake of fluids.
Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Please note that in Tanzania the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets (eg gluten-free or dairy-free) is minimal or non-existent and we strongly recommend you bring these specialised dietary items from home.
The menu has a high liquid and carbohydrate content; the two important elements for successful climbing. At higher altitudes, stimulants (such as coffee) and less digestible foods (such as meat) are not recommended. Our evening meal at the highest camp on Kilimanjaro is a meatless stew as our experience shows this to be the ideal preparation for the summit day. At mealtimes a selection of hot drinks is available. Soup is served twice daily.
Daily meals
Bed tea: Tea or coffee served in your tent.Breakfast: Seasonal fresh fruit (mango/banana/watermelon), porridge, cooked eggs, sausage, bacon and toast.Energy snacks, such as bananas and chocolate bars, are provided for the daily walk.Lunch: Either a packed lunch on longer days or, more usually, a hot lunch served in camp by a small team who have raced ahead of the group. A hot lunch typically consists of soup, bread or pancakes, cheese, tuna, jam, peanut butter, pasta salad and cake.Afternoon tea: Served in late afternoon. It is an opportunity to drink lots of hot drinks and snack on peanuts or popcorn.Dinner: The main meal of the day and always three courses: soup and bread; followed by the main dish, which could be rice, potatoes or pasta with fish, meat or vegetables; and dessert, often of fruit.Summit snacks: While we provide enough food for the climb, we recommend you bring some of your favourite snacks and keep them for the summit day. This is because the summit day is a long and tough climb and having your favourite snacks can give you a very welcome boost.
Water
While the water we provide on Kilimanjaro is suitable for drinking, you may wish to be extra safe and treat it with your own water purification tablets.
Transportation
Journeys are by private bus or 4x4 vehicles, depending on the number of people in the group.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today, check-in is typically from 3pm. There will be a welcome briefing in the afternoon/evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)
Getting to the start hotel
Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily using taxis or public transport. A cab from the airport costs approximately US$100. On arrival at the hotel please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
Kilimanjaro can be climbed at any time of the year but it is usually very wet in the rainforest in April and May. January and February are the warmest months. Above the cloud line the days are warm and pleasant, with temperatures in sunlight often above 20C (68F), but the nights can get very cold. It is possible for temperatures to drop as low as -20C (-4F) at Kibo campsite, our highest overnight stop. The daily weather pattern on the mountain tends to be clear mornings with an afternoon cloud build-up that often clears before sunset. In the European summer, the weather is usually cloudy at lower altitudes and often sunny above 11,480ft (3,500m). Please note, mountain weather conditions are never totally predictable and we may meet wet and snowy conditions at any time.
Spending Money
Luggage to be carried by porters on the Kilimanjaro trek is limited to 26lb (12kg) per person. Any traveller wishing to take extra luggage should allow about US$140 per porter, which is payable in cash (US dollars) to our local agent at the commencement of the climb. It is impossible to spend much money on the mountain climb but both alcohol and souvenirs are readily available in Marangu.
Kindly ensure you have US dollars or Tanzanian shillings; other currencies, such as euros, are not much use here.
If anyone needs to leave the group at any point during the trip (for reasons such as an early descent from Kilimanjaro due to altitude sickness), all expenses incurred until rejoining the group on the itinerary described in these Trip Notes are the responsibility of the individual(s) concerned and should be paid to our local operator before leaving Tanzania.
Oxygen system
An Altox Personal Oxygen System costs £367 (subject to change) and needs to be pre‐ordered before travel. It is designed to help close the altitude gap between the top camp and the summit.
The pack includes:
— One x oxygen cylinder (each cylinder gives 12 hours’ endurance) — One x oxygen regulator — One x pulse dose delivery system — One x silicone nasal cannula — One x personal backpack — An additional porter to carry the system
The complete system is supplied in a protective Pelicase and backpack, carried by your porter.
Guides are all fully trained in the use of the system. For more, visit www.summitoxygen.com/kilimanjaro/
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work but tipping has become customary in Tanzania with the increase in tourism.
Tipping kitty: The tour leader will suggest to the group that they donate between US$155 and US$180 per person for all the staff on Kilimanjaro. This money is then used to tip guides, the cook and tour leader. How the tips are distributed will be explained in the pre-trip briefing. This method is the smoothest way to ensure all crew on the mountain receive the right amount. In addition, it is also normal to give small tips in restaurants and to luggage porters and drivers.
If there are trainee guides on your departure, please note that their tips are being covered by the Exodus Travels Foundation and so they will not be included in the group tip.
Kindly ensure you have US dollars in a range of denominations to contribute, as other currencies are not much use in Tanzania.
Highlights
— Stand on top of a continent for an unforgettable experience — Rongai is less crowded than other routes on the mountain — Enjoy a carefully paced, six-day trek in remote wilderness — An extra acclimatisation day increasing the chances of summit success — We use one guide for every two clients — Exodus has one of the highest summit success rates of any operator on Kilimanjaro
Trip Details
Product Code: 4359
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: he group.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: TYW
Starts: Marangu, Kilimanjaro
Finishes: Marangu, Kilimanjaro
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, six lunches, five dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Kilimanjaro Park feeAccommodation
Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort and Kilimanjaro campsOn this adventure, we spend five nights camping in three-person tents and two nights in a hotel. Marangu: Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort (nights 1 and 7) Before and after the trek, we stay at the Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort. Close to Kilimanjaro National Park, it is tucked deep in the banana and coffee plantations of Kyalla village. It has two restaurants, plus a bar serving the refreshing Kilimanjaro Lager and banana wine. There is also a swimming pool to enjoy when you return from Kilimanjaro. Kilimanjaro: Full-service camping (nights 2-6) Although conditions are basic on the mountain, the camping we experience is one of the best available on the Rongai Route. We sleep in Vango Halo Pro 300 tents regardless of whether you have made a twin-share or single supplement booking. These are spacious three-person tents that are ideal for the conditions on Kilimanjaro. Our camp life is about as comfortable as it gets on Kili, with a communal mess tent, where we gather as a group and eat breakfast and dinner, and a private toilet tent. We also ensure there is a bowl of hot washing water for you in the morning and again after the walk at an agreed time in the afternoon. The only exception is the highest camp where there is no water source. Worth knowing The campsites on Kilimanjaro are designated by the national park and are mainly stone/dirt. They are not all level and can be crowded in peak season.We always ensure there is a bowl of hot washing water for you in the morning and again after the walk at an agreed time in the afternoon. The only exception is the highest camp where there is no water source.Handwashing water, treated with Dettol, is available along with soap before all meals, and everyone is strongly advised to make use of it.The toilet tent has toilet paper within it, but we recommend you bring your own toilet paper and wet wipes.All camping equipment is provided except for sleeping bags, sleeping mats and pillows.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5,700 ($712 /day)
Itinerary
The adventure starts at our hotel in Marangu. There will be a trip briefing this afternoon/evening. Please bring your passport, insurance and air ticket details. The briefing will cover all aspects of your trip and will include the distribution of any equipment you have booked. Accommodation: Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort or similar
After completing the necessary registration formalities, we transfer by road to Nale Moru (6,400ft/1,950m) to begin our climb on this seemingly untouched wilderness route. We start with a half-day walk on a small path that winds through farmland and pine plantations. It is a consistent but gentle climb through forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. We reach our first overnight stop by late afternoon at the edge of the moorland zone (8,530ft/2,600m). Accommodation: Full-service camping
The morning walk is a steady ascent up to Second Cave (11,320ft/3,450m) with superb views of the eastern icefields on the rim of Kibo, the youngest and highest of the three volcanoes that form the entire mountain. After lunch, we leave the main trail and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path towards the jagged peaks of Mawenzi, the second of Kilimanjaro's volcanoes. Our campsite, which we reach in late afternoon, is in a sheltered valley near Kikelewa Caves (11,810ft/3,600m). Accommodation: Full-service camping
A steep climb up grassy slopes is rewarded by superb panoramas of the Kenyan plains to the north. We leave vegetation behind close to Mawenzi Tarn (14,200ft/4,330m), spectacularly situated in a cirque beneath the towering cliffs of Mawenzi. The afternoon will be free to rest or to explore the area as an aid to acclimatisation. Accommodation: Full-service camping
We leave our attractive campsite to cross the lunar desert of the Saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach Kibo campsite (15,420ft/4,700m) at the bottom of the Kibo crater wall by early afternoon. The remainder of the day is spent resting in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. Accommodation: Full-service camping
We start the final (and by far the steepest and most demanding) part of the climb by torchlight at around midnight. It will be extremely cold as we walk very slowly in darkness on a switchback trail through loose volcanic scree to reach the crater rim at Gillman's Point (18,650ft/5,685m). We rest for a short time to enjoy the spectacular sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling strong can make the three-hour round trip along the snow-covered rim to the true summit of Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (19,340ft/5,895m), passing close to the spectacular glaciers and ice cliffs that still occupy most of the summit area. The descent to Kibo Hut (15,420ft/4,700m) is surprisingly fast and, after refreshments and rest, we continue descending to reach our final campsite at Horombo (12,200ft/3,720m). This is an extremely long and hard day with between 11 and 15 hours of walking at high altitude. Accommodation: Full-service camping
A sustained descent with wide views across the moorland takes us into the lovely forest around Mandara (8,860ft/2,700m), the first stopping place on the Marangu route. The trail continues through semi-tropical vegetation to the national park gate at Marangu (6,000ft/1,830m). We leave the local staff to return to our hotel in Marangu by mid-afternoon for a well-earned, shower and beer. Accommodation: Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort or similar
Depending on the time of your return flight, the day can be spent resting at the hotel or exploring the village for souvenirs. If you’d like the adventure to continue, speak to your sales representative about joining our safari extension, which takes in three national parks over three days, or a chilled post-climb escape to Zanzibar.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
james brent - Traveled, June 2022
Kili Rongai & Zanzibar The trip was much tougher than any of our Group had expected. It was colder than the seasonal norm but the trip to base camp was really attritional; by the time we got there we (and it was a fit Group) were exhausted. The journey did not only impact on the guests: of the 4 guides, 2 retired sick and neither of the summit porters reached the summit (one through sickness; one through helping a guest back down the mountain). My reflection was that the accumulative challenge was not reflected in the meeting notes. The hotel in Zanzibar (Zumba Beach) was in an idyllic location and the GM was a strong leader and led her staff well. Again the trip notes should perhaps have been clearer that expectations needed to be calibrated a little lower than in the developed world. Our room was burgled while we were sleeping and items stolen from within 1 foot of our heads. The thieves cut their way in and so were carrying knives; a sobering experience. I don’t think crime there is uncommon and maybe prospective guests should be alerted to it? Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the peak on the Summit but feeling of relief more than inspiration! Thoughts on Group Leader It was her first trip leading and her Summit staff were virtually eradicated before reaching the top. The weather was poor and I fear she was traumatised.....but very full marks for getting most of us to the top and all down safely. Advice for Potential Travellers The climb was really difficult. It was less the final climb from base camp but the deconditioning that occurred before....and the weather is unpredictable. There is crime in Zanzibar and important to be forewarned. Suggestions Exodus is a good company and provides fun trips. I think it is important however that customers are properly advised of the full scope of challenge upfront. Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route Reply from Exodus Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, James, although we were sorry to read that you were disappointed with some aspects of your tour. As I am sure you appreciate, activity levels are inherently subjective, but we do endeavour to describe each trip as accurately as possible, and we are always open to suggestions to amend our guidance should we be made aware of clients feeling a particular trip’s activity level should be changed. This is one of our longest running trips and we therefore receive a large volume of feedback regarding our clients’ views on the tour. Whilst this trip generally scores highly for trip note accuracy, we are aware that your group experienced unusually cold temperatures, which may have increased the difficulty of some of the treks and caused more cases of sickness than expected. Whilst our product manager, John Penge, and tour leaders remain of the view that the current grading for our Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route trip is accurate, I would like to assure you that they will take your comments into account when discussing potential changes to the activity level of this tour. Addressing your second point, we take the health and safety of our clients extremely seriously and we were, therefore, very concerned to receive your comments about a theft at Fumba Beach Lodge. This property has been operating for twenty years and, whilst we are aware of petty crimes in the past, incidents of this nature are not common in this area, mainly due to the heavy police presence on the beach. Nevertheless, we would not wish to downplay your experience, which sounds particularly worrying, and we would like to assure you that the security presence at the lodge has been increased and the mosquito netting has been reinforced to hopefully prevent any repeat of this situation. We recognise that this cannot change your experience, for which we are incredibly regretful, but we do hope it demonstrates that we have acted on it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/12/2022
Allan Gordon - Traveled, August 2019
Kilimanjaro - Go For It with Exodus Very well organised, everyone very helpful and friendly. Guides brilliant and supportive. 13 out of our Group of 14 made it to the very top ,Uhuru Summit. What a team and great experience. Most Inspirational Moment Sunrise from Uhuru summit. Thoughts on Group Leader John Seka was excellent. Very competent, caring and humourous. Advice for Potential Travellers Down sleeping bag as the 2 nights above 4,500m were very cold Take Diamox 125mg twice daily Wear very comfy boots as you will be wearing them for 6 days. Suggestions I could not recommend Exodus Travel highly enough. Trust them to deliver and give you your best chance of summitting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2019
Nicola Buchanan - Traveled, December 2018
Amazing! What a hard, rewarding experience… although Kili is not the prettiest of mountains it is certainly a mighty challenge… and withholds its beauty till summit day sunrise. The porters enabled summiting to be possible with their tireless support and encouragement. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the summit after 8 1/2 hrs of climbing... Thoughts on Group Leader Abraham was brilliant, quite guenounely we could not have done it without the support and care of the porters. I know Abraham has done this many times but he rejoiced in our success. Advice for Potential Travellers Respect the impact of altitude and weather... I have done many treks and knew this would be tough. When nothing else was left it was a mental strength that’s got us up. Suggestions Take hand and feet warmers! Make sure waterproofs are just that or pack a cape!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/21/2019
Glen B - Traveled, January 2019
Epic What a fantastic adventure summiting Africa’s highest peak with the most amazing and supportive group of people, ever!!!! Easily The most difficult thing I have ever done. The trek was a well oiled machine. Porters were amazing. Tents were were dry and set up by the time we entered each camp. The food was fantastic. The toilet was a godsend. The guides were amazing, supportive, present and empathetic. I never would have summited without the excellent pacing and patience of Seraphine. I never would have made it die without the quick thinking, preparedness and assistance of Seraphine, King Janes, Abraham and others. Of our group of 11 trekkers, 10 made it to Gilman’s point, and 8 of made it to Uhuru Peak!!! I highly recommend Exodus and the African Walking Company (AWC) Most Inspirational Moment The comaraderie of the trekkers. We were so supportive and respectful of each other. The best examples of man’s humanity to their fellow man. Thoughts on Group Leader Abraham was amazing!!!! I cannot say enough positive things about that guy!!! Advice for Potential Travellers Keep a positive mental attitude. Bring 5 pairs of pants, sox and tops - dry clothing is the ultimate luxury. Keep them ina plastic bag. Bring and use Diamox. Don’t be a hero, the trek is uncomfortable enough without doing it with a headache. It really works. Wear sunscreen. My face is peeling because I forgot to wear it on the summit run. I’m ten shades darker and my entire face is peeling. Looks like I have a skin disease. Wet wipes. Bring way more than you think you need. Bring candy. Get the warmest sleeping bag you can find!! And mother most important thing to remember: walk slooooooooowly. Speed kills. Suggestions Tip the porters. They work hard.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/25/2019
Vicky Waller - Traveled, October 2018
Kilimanjaro Rongai Route - October 2018 Exodus Travels were an excellent company to deal with whilst arranging my recent trip to Kilimanjaro. I felt like I had my own personal travel agent to help me every step of the way. They answered every question and query I had knowledgably and efficiently. Everything about the trip ran smoothly and to plan. I would definitely use Exodus again for a future trip! Most Inspirational Moment The people of Africa were the most inspirational for me on this trip. Everyone was so nice and friendly. Thoughts on Group Leader I had 100% faith in the guides we had on the trip. They were knowledgably and made you feel at ease. Advice for Potential Travellers I would definitely recommend that you extend your trip by 1 day at the beginning of the trip as the flights are long and its a good idea to have a rest day at the hotel the day before you walk.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2018
Lauren McCabe - Traveled, October 2018
Do it, and do it with Exodus! Made memories for life on this trip. Summit day was torture but our guides made getting to Gilmans Point (before getting to Uhuru Peak) an incredible moment. The team of guides and porters are exceptional. This is our second trip with Exodus and will use them again for future ones because we trust their ability to take care of us, from booking to the itinerary and guides Most Inspirational Moment Coming up to the last ten minutes before reaching Gilmans Point, we’d been hiking for seven hours in the cold and dark uphill so we’re exhausted. The sun was rising so we had a spectacular view and out of nowhere the guides all start singing. It made reaching that point honestly one of the best experiences of my life! Thoughts on Group Leader Makeke was fantastic, he took such good care of each and every one of us Advice for Potential Travellers Expect summit day to be tough, be prepared to dig deep to get to the top, it’s worth it! Take ear plugs for sleeping! Be prepared to donate some clothes to the porters at the end of the trek. The clothes they wear are all donated.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2018
Phillip Dixon - Traveled, September 2018
Kilimanjaro Rongai Route 21/09 Second time of climbing Kilimanjaro and it didn’t disappoint. Glorious starscapes at night, changing scenery from jungle to lunar landscapes and then the snow encrusted peak. This is a challenging hike on summit day but within most people’s abilities if you are reasonably fit. Due to airline problems my luggage didn’t arrive, but luckily I had ultra essentials and warm kit in my daysack. Day before the summit a porter brought my luggage up to the camp so had an incredible surprise. You may think you will lose weight on this trek, but the food is incredible and plentiful – but you will still eat lots of snacks on your trek too. You will use the energy Most Inspirational Moment Summit day reaching Uhuru Peak and seeing the joy in all the other members of the group. People found a new energy when reaching that small wooden sign Thoughts on Group Leader Makeke was great, naturally funny, always there with a joke or inspirational word when people were flagging and able to sort problems while reassuring everyone. He dealt with my missing luggage taking all the pressure off and also arranging extra waterbottles for some group members who only had camelbaks which might freeze. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack enough kit for summit day and extras in your daysack in case of airline problems and wear your boots to the airport. Take lots of snacks like cereal bars to eat on the trek, sharing a snack with your trekmates is a mainstay of the trip and handing one to someone looking tired can give them a boost. Wear layers over one or two bulky items, you can always remove a layer or add one. Most importantly put in a few mountain hikes before you go as you will enjoy it more with legs that aren't aching and shortness of breath. It is really about going slow and sustained pace. Suggestions Our guides and team were incredible, they made us feel safe, encouraged us on and everything we achieved they were a big part of. Of my two trips up Kilimanjaro this was by far the best organised and most professional
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2018
Morag Smith - Traveled, August 2018
Fantastic trip If you have ever harboured thoughts of climbing Kilimanjaro, go for it!This is a brilliant trip with excellent friendly and knowledgeable guides. There is so much more to this trip than simply reaching Uhuru point or not. We saw baboons and blue monkeys, beautiful landscapes and met many amazing people.. Do not underestimate the physical and mental impact of summit day though. This involves a trek to Kibo camp, followed by some rest, then around 11 hours or so of solid walking to the summit and returning to Kibo camp, a short rest.and then a further 3-4 hours walking before reaching Horombo camp and falling completely exhausted into your sleeping bag. None of our group were elite athletes but we all exercised regularly. We ranged in age from 21 to 66 years and both the youngest and the oldest achieved the summit. Not to be missed! Most Inspirational Moment Funnily enough, on our way to the airport we saw Kilimanjaro rising high above the clouds like Jacks beanstalk in the fairy tale and there was a sense of wonder that we could and indeed had reached its summit. I will carry that memory with me forever as it was only then that the scale of our achieve,net really hit hom. Thoughts on Group Leader Brilliant. Make ke is funny, slight lions winded but warm, friendly helpful and knowledgeable. Advice for Potential Travellers You should take some plastic bags for keeping your litter in and also for taking any used toilet paper away. Kili is a special place and we must ensure we leave it as we find it. Unfortunately, not everyone does this and there is a lot of litter. Tour companies must push this more. Re trip notes, I don't think summit day notes are wholly accurate. It's a lot more than 6 Kim walking that day. Suggestions No
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2018
Brian Page - Traveled, January 2018
Brian Page Unfortunately for the first time ever I suffered from altitude sickness with reduced my stamina and caused loss of balance and coordination. However, thanks to the professionalism, experience and support of the Exodus staff I was able to reach the summit. I have no hesitation in recommending Exodus for an event of this nature. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the summit plateau despite my difficulties Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent leader Advice for Potential Travellers No I was very pleased with all the arrangements made for the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2018
Shannah Murland - Traveled, September 2017
Well-supported hike The guide-to-guest ratio was excellent and we were well-fed and taken care of. Others in the group had altitude sickness symptoms and the staff were great at recognizing and managing these situations. Most Inspirational Moment My burst of energy near the top that had me free-climbing to the finish just before sunrise (I had lost the trail because I went around someone who was sick...). Thoughts on Group Leader Very capable and knowledgeable. Advice for Potential Travellers A great route that has less people on it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/24/2017
Stuart Royce - Traveled, August 2017
All worth the hard work. A father and daughter adventure of a life time. Never to be forgotten. Most Inspirational Moment The most inspirational moment/ moments, was from the guides encouragement throughout the climb and making you feel that you could accomplish anything. Thoughts on Group Leader Mussa was excellent in every way, from start to finish. Advice for Potential Travellers Do not under estimate this climb. Be well prepared for a challenging week of hiking. A couple of weeks walking is not enough training even if you are a seasoned hiker. Give yourself at least 6-12months of training.You must be prepared to listen to the advice of your guides and don't think you know better. These are the guys who get you through it. Suggestions As I have said, the guides,porters and cook are invaluable people on your trip. They know these climbs like the back of their hands. They know the conditions that may arise at any time. They are constantly assessing your condition throughout the trip without you realising it. If they feel you are having problems then they will deal with it in highly trained and professional manner. Big respect to these guys.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2017
Vicky Lewis - Traveled, August 2017
Fantastic experience, wonderful people This was something I’ve been wanting to do for so long…. it was the most difficult but rewarding trip. What really made the experience magical was the guides and porters who were superheroes! Thank you for making my dream of climbing Kilimanjaro a reality! Most Inspirational Moment Apart from getting to the top, the guides and Porters... they were constantly cheerful, so helpful and even made me a birthday cake! Thoughts on Group Leader Wonderfully friendly and helpful... dedicated and insightful Advice for Potential Travellers Do whatever your guide tells you! Bring ear plugs and baby wipes!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2017
Melissa Mason - Traveled, August 2017
Rongai Route - Kilimanjaro. WOWIE I have just returned from my amazing adventure of climbing Kilimanjaro using the Rongai route. Don’t believe people that say its easy. It isn’t. But, it is 100% worth it :). “The greatest things in life aren’t things” Is it challenging – Yes Is it 100% worth it – Absolutely Yes! Should you do it – Yes definitely! Most Inspirational Moment The mountain is beautiful! The ever changing scenery as you ascend, the nights sky, the moon, the clear fresh air, the tweeting birds - It's really special. The summit night is very challenging but its all worth it when you reach Gilmans Point and see the most incredible sunrise. If you have the reserves left and make it to Uhuru Peak, there are no words to describe the feeling! Just incredible and one that will be very hard to replicate. The porters can't go without mention. You don't fully appreciate what they do until you see it for yourself. Its truly remarkable and inspirational. Their strength, stamina and wonderful smiles is really amazing. The expedition wouldn't be possible without them. The group - meeting 12 other strangers to make the journey to summit Kilimanjaro. We couldn't have had a better group. It felt like a family and we all supported each other and kept laughing all the way - as well as crying in some cases. Its all part of the journey. The people made this trip and the memories will last a life time! Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader Makake was a good guide and had a great support group with him. He was very organised and made sure everything ran smoothly. With Makake and his teams guidance, 93% of our group reached Gilmans Point! Advice for Potential Travellers I trained by walking up and down my apartment block stairs with my back pack - all 40 flights, as well as gym work, weights, running, cycling etc. The best practice however, was the stairs! What I found on the hike was that, although I am fit and healthy individual, its the attitude that will affect you the most. It effects everybody differently and so you just don't know how you react until you get there. I took Diamox for the altitude sickness and when my headaches began, took paracetamol and Ibuprofen which took the edge off. Top tips:- Pole Pole. Don't be tempted to go fast. Take rehydration supplements to add to your water. Take a hot water bottle for bedtime. Its cold. Ensure you have a warm sleeping bag and decent sleeping mat! I also took a travel pillow! Take a few bin bags for your clothes. Take silicone ear plugs ( get them from Boots). Take a small body wash to wash your hands / face etc. You get very dusty and dirty and its nice to clean up! Take Compeed! I took some herbal tea bags - was nice to have a bit of luxury! Respect the kit list and don't try and save on things - I used everything on it! Most importantly - take small change in $'s for tipping at the end. The porters that leave on the last day will need to take their tips so don't take big notes. Take $5's and $10 etc to make it easier for them to split the tips. Suggestions A big THANK YOU to Exodus and The African Walking Company and the porters for making our trip possible! I will never forget it! Asante Sana!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2017
Launa Wallace - Traveled, February 2017
Rongai - Feb 2017 I consider myself to be fit but do not underestimate the final ascent/descent…… it is extremely hard work. We completed in 9.25 – hindsight tells me we should have gone slower as I had a pounding headache and was exhausted at the end. It doesn’t help that you then have another walk in the afternoon to cope with ! The walking prior to the ascent was a breeze if that helps ! The organisation was excellent but be prepared for very early nights and then being wide awake early on … food was first class and plenty of it. We were lucky with the weather (Feb) I would not want to walk Kilimanjaro in the rain and wind. Good luck Most Inspirational Moment It should have been reaching the summit but I was too exhausted to be inspired by it - the views at sunrise however are absolutely incredible and the clear skies filled with stars at night Thoughts on Group Leader He was very motivating Advice for Potential Travellers When you begin the ascent, half the pace you are comfortable with .... I didn't take diamox and think my headache was caused by the hood of my jacket rather than altitude- make sure your clothing is comfortable before you start as you will be too cold to adjust it Suggestions Have a beach holiday in Zanzibar afterwards !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/27/2017
Carl Dean - Traveled, September 2016
Kilimanjaro Climb Rongai Route Excellent climb but maybe less diverse scenery of other routes. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak of Kilimanjaro Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent, english and humour Advice for Potential Travellers Get Fit
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2016
Patrick Mcateer - Traveled, September 2016
Kilimanjaro conquered through inspiration and song My trip to kilimanjaro was another one of my bucket list challenges and one where head and body was truly tested. The 7 day trip provided testing hot days, and cold nights and where darkness from 18.00hrs to 0600hrs played havoc with my inability to sleep while trying to keep warm despite the numerous layers. I journeyed with a wonderful group of people from England and Ireland, all of whom had one desire, To ascend Kilimanjaro. We all did it, supported each other through the trials and tribulations and left the mountain with a new sense of achievement and camaraderie Most Inspirational Moment We left base camp at 00.00hrs, full of trepidation, not knowing what was ahead of us but our feet had hardly taken 2 paces when all of a sudden one of our assistant guides, Alfie began to sing. in the most soothing and calming tone I have ever heard. We were all bewitched by the sound as it echoed up the valley, our names were woven into the lyrics and we knew that he was calling on us to be strong. We were all conscious of our breathing and at times discomfort but Alfie carried us through, As we climbed higher and higher we began to overtake the earlier climbers, they stepped aside for the group with the singer and it was so obvious they envied the momentum Alfie was generating. For 6 hours he kept up the singing and for 6 hours we knew our Angel was with us. We all made it to the top where we all acknowledged the chanter and how much he inspired us to achieve our goals. I have never been in awe as much of a person with a golden voice and I would highly recommend his company on any future trip Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent group leader, very knowledgeable and inspiring. We knew exactly what each day would be like and were never disappointed. Advice for Potential Travellers Always take a hot water bottle as this is a must for the cold nights. Get as fit as you can as this makes the climb much more comfortable Suggestions Assistant guides were all very informative. Porters were a blessing to work with, very helpful and respectful. Please take any spare walking clothes you have to share with porters. The cook, (stomach engineer) worked wonders with the food and has to be highly commended on his knowledge and cooking skills
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2016
Helen Langford - Traveled, July 2016
The amazing Rongai Route What a great route to choose to get to your destination. You get to see both sides of the moutain the arid dry north compares the lush rainy south. The beautiful extra day at Mawenzi tarn to help with acclimitisation is so worth it. but most importantly living above the clouds for 4 days is just the best. Most Inspirational Moment The people, to turn up at a strange airport in an unfamilar country and meet up with like minded people and share a life changing experience what just such a joy. Thoughts on Group Leader Mussa our leader had the right balance and was obviously very experience in leading such a big group of people. The guides are obviously checking your health and well being throughout the treck even though you might not be aware that they are! Advice for Potential Travellers Take cheap clothes and equipment that you dont mind giving away at the end of your trip. The porters who have carried all your equipment and camp for 6 days will appreciate anything you can give them.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/23/2016
Tony Williams - Traveled, March 2016
Kilimanjaro Climb - Rongai Route A brilliant trip/experience. I fully endorse Ivor Davenport-Smiths previous review. At 69 years I can say that age should not be a barrier as long as you are very fit. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching Uhuru peak, the early morning sun shining on the glaciers, the comradeship and youthfullness of the team in a different way the Saturday morning tour of the Marangu village sites Thoughts on Group Leader Makake was very good, a detailed briefing followed by concern for all participants and good team leadership (supported by a good team) Advice for Potential Travellers travel in the drier times of the year, March was good to us
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/12/2016
Ivor Smith-Davenport - Traveled, March 2016
Rongai Route Kilimanjaro Ivor & Brenda Exodus say that they do everything they can to make it possible for you to achieve your aim of getting to the summit, and they lived up to their word. The local guides and porters work tirelessly to make everyday a success, their good humour is infectious and the feeling of standing at the summit is wonderful beyond words. Most Inspirational Moment Summit day is a long slow slog in the dark, the final approach as the sun broke through and the realisation that nothing could now prevent standing at the peak was an uplifting moment. We had a great group and all bar one made it. The guides worked hard to get amongst those flagging and was something we noted and praised once we finished the trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Makaike was well organised and briefed well. He was surrounded by a strong team and at no point did we feel unsupported or unsure as the days passed. He was good humoured and considerate to the individual needs. Advice for Potential Travellers The exodus travel notes are superb - the detail is all there. The only thing I would recommend is that, unless they have very good sleeping mats, hire Exodus ones as the ground is quite rough and a good nights sleep is more likely on a comfy mat. Suggestions We were surprised at the standard of the food/ dining, very good indeed. Chef did a great job. Overall the trip exceeded our expectations, both my wife and I reached the summit and have no doubt that the method and organisation of Exodus made that possible.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/25/2016
Wayne Seddon - Traveled, October 2015
Wine Rooney A very hard and very rewarding trek to a place beyond the clouds. A once in a lifetime experience. Great group and guides, always positive. Thankyou. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching summit and seeing sun arriving also as if to welcome us at the top of Africa. Stunning. Thoughts on Group Leader Charles. Legend. All the other guides were fantastic and a special thanks to all the porters also who helped me get my backside to the top. Without them, no way. Advice for Potential Travellers Be as fit as you can. See it as a challenge and dont leave it too late in life. Dig deep and achieve. Suggestions Make sure your boots fit well. It is a big, big walk. Loved it. Feel proud to have made it. Just before my 50th phew! Literally.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/21/2015
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