Kilimanjaro - Superstars

Kilimanjaro - Team Work

Kilimanjaro - Celebrations

Kilimanjaro - Superstars

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At Genes Adventures, we offer the Rongai Route in 6- and 7-day options, recommending the 7-day trek for better acclimatization and summit success.

Starting on Kilimanjaro’s northern side, Rongai offers a peaceful ascent through pine forests and farmlands, with chances to spot black-and-white colobus monkeys. The 7-day route adds a scenic detour to Mawenzi Tarn beneath the dramatic Mawenzi Peak.

After the summit, descend through the lush Marangu rainforest. With its gentle gradient and strong success rate, Rongai is perfect for those seeking a quieter, rewarding climb.

Rongai Route

6 days - 5 nights

Day 1

After breakfast, transfer to the Rongai Gate at the northern side of Kilimanjaro. While your guide secures the climbing permits, enjoy a coffee or tea and take in the quiet surroundings. Begin your climb through maize and potato fields before entering the cool shade of a pine forest. Keep an eye out for black-and-white Colobus monkeys along the way. As you reach the edge of the moorland zone, take in sweeping views over the plains before arriving at Rongai One Camp.

Overnight at:

Rongai 1

Altitude:

2,590 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 2

Following breakfast, continue your steady ascent towards Second Cave, where you’ll enjoy a well-earned rest and a hot lunch. Marvel at the striking views of Kibo Peak before trekking further across open moorland to reach Kikelewa Caves, your camp for the night.

Overnight at:

Kikelewa Caves

Altitude:

3,595 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 3

A short but steep climb up grassy slopes rewards you with superb views of the remote wilderness. The vegetation zone soon gives way to an Alpine desert as you approach Mawenzi Tarn, set dramatically beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing or exploring the surrounding area with your guide.

Overnight at:

Mawenzi Tarn

Altitude:

4,330 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 4

After breakfast, continue your ascent on the eastern side of Kibo, crossing the wide saddle that stretches between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. Arrive at Kibo Hut where the remainder of the day is dedicated to resting and preparing for your final summit push, which begins around midnight.

Overnight at:

Kibo Hut

Altitude:

4,695 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 5

Summit Day! Begin in the dark, guided by stars and determination. Push onward to Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters) just in time for sunrise—a moment that will stay with you forever. After celebrating at the roof of Africa, descend carefully back to Kibo Hut for a short rest and refreshments before continuing down to Horombo Hut for a well-earned overnight stay.

Overnight at:

Horombo Hut

Altitude:

3,720 meters

Meal plan:

Full board

Day 6

On your final day, stroll down through the forest, where lush greenery and lively birdlife welcome you back. Upon reaching Marangu Gate, celebrate your success with a festive champagne brunch hosted by Genes Adventures. Afterwards, transfer back to your hotel for a well-deserved shower, rest, and time to relive your incredible journey.

Overnight at:

Hotel/lodge

Altitude:

n/a

Meal plan:

Half board

2025

1 pax:

2 pax:

3 pax:

4 pax:

5 pax:

6 pax and more:

$2,100

$1,990

$1,920

$1,910

$1,900

$1,870

2026

1 pax:

2 pax:

3 pax:

4 pax:

5 pax:

6 pax and more:

$2,125

$2,015

$1,945

$1,935

$1,925

$1,895

2027

1 pax:

2 pax:

3 pax:

4 pax:

5 pax:

6 pax and more:

$2,150

$2,040

$1,970

$1,960

$1,950

$1,920

Please note: The above prices are indicative and refer to the climb only. For a complete, tailor-made package including transfers, accommodations, and more – contact us for a personalized quote! All our published prices are subject to our Terms and Conditions. For full details, we kindly invite you to review them by clicking [here].

Inclusive:

Park entry, and rescue fees
Services of a professional mountain guide, chef, and support crew
Shared accommodation in tents
Cooking equipment provided
Emergency evacuation coverage
Access to emergency oxygen
All transfers and activities as outlined above

Exlusive:

Tipping can be a sensitive topic in many European/Western countries, but it is a common practice in the tourism industry in East Africa. Check our Tipping Guideline below!
Beverages (treated and boiled drinking water provided on the mountain)
Personal snacks such as energy/protein bars, sweets, crisps, etc.
Personal climbing gear, including sleeping bag and sleeping pad (e.g., Thermarest)
Visa fees and airport departure taxes
International flights and airport transfers
Personal items and anything not specified in the itinerary above

Tipping Guideline Kilimanjaro Climb:

Head Guide: $25-$30 per day / group
Assistant Guide: $15-$20 per day / group
Porters: $7-$10 per porter per day / group
Cook: $12-$15 per day / group
Camp Master: $10-$12 per day / group
Toilet Master: $10-$12 per day / group
Waiter: $12-15 per day / group

Hydration:

Drink Plenty of Water: Aim for at least 3 liters daily, or more at higher altitudes. Soups are excellent for warming up.
Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Skip energy drinks that cause dehydration, as well as coffee and powdered milk. Instead, opt for tea with honey or glucose, which is available in Arusha.
Insulated Bottles: At higher altitudes, keep an insulated water bottle in your sleeping bag or wrapped in clothing to prevent freezing.
Hydration Systems: Water bladders (like Platypus) are convenient at lower altitudes but may freeze higher up. Always carry an alternative container.
Purification: All drinking water is boiled and purified with tablets.

Staying Warm and Dry:

Clothing: Specialized clothing is crucial. Pack a spare set of thermals in a dry bag for evening use.
Layering: First and second layers are essential during walks. Evening clothing should include heavier layers such as a thicker fleece or Polartec sweater. Insulated gloves, hats, and socks are vital.
Daytime Wear: You'll often climb in shorts and breathable T-shirts (avoid cotton, which retains moisture and freezes overnight). Opt for quick-drying, synthetic tops.
Evening Wear: Heavier jackets and layers will be necessary after sunset.
Packing Motto: "Better to have more than less." Modern technical clothing is lightweight and packs down small.

Tips for Altitude and Walking:

Day Pack: Carry only essentials (jacket, water, snacks) in a 20–30L backpack with a hip strap.
Walking Poles: Great for balance, uphill leverage, and reducing downhill impact on knees.
Pacing: Walk at a comfortable, steady speed. Breathe deeply, syncing breaths with steps (e.g., 2-3 steps per breath). Avoid rushing.
Breaks: Short stops to catch your breath are fine; drink water and enjoy the view. Avoid sitting down unnecessarily.
Energy Snacks: Bring high-energy foods like chocolate and muesli bars for quick boosts.

Summit Day:

Clothing: Specialized clothing is crucial. Pack a spare set of thermals in a dry bag for evening use.
Layering: First and second layers are essential during walks. Evening clothing should include heavier layers such as a thicker fleece or Polartec sweater. Insulated gloves, hats, and socks are vital.
Daytime Wear: You'll often climb in shorts and breathable T-shirts (avoid cotton, which retains moisture and freezes overnight). Opt for quick-drying, synthetic tops.
Evening Wear: Heavier jackets and layers will be necessary after sunset.
Packing Motto: "Better to have more than less." Modern technical clothing is lightweight and packs down small.

Gear Recommendations While Walking:

1st Layer: Thermal tops and leggings (polypropylene or geothermal materials).
2nd Layer: Lightweight Polartec or similar long-sleeved sweater.
3rd Layer: Lightweight wind-stopper fleece.
4th Layer: Breathable, waterproof shell (e.g., Gore-Tex).
Waterproof Overpants: Essential for wet or windy conditions.

Gear Recommendations At Camp:

1st Layer: Dry thermals (a second pair is necessary).
2nd Layer: Heavier Polartec or similar sweater.
3rd Layer: Heavier fleece or down jacket.
4th Layer: Fleece overpants or jogging bottoms.
5th Layer: Breathable wind-stopper shell
6th Layer: Breathable wind-stopper overpants.

Final Notes:

This guide covers the essentials. If you have further questions or need to rent specialized equipment, please let us know in advance. Best of luck from all of us at Genes Adventures!

This itinerary is just an example of the climb only!

Your Kilimanjaro adventure will be fully customized based on your preferences, group size, travel dates, and acclimatization needs. We’re here to help you reach the Roof of Africa in comfort and safety!