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Machame's "Whiskey Route" Expedition
pp
2,961
9 days, 8 nights
from US $
January - December
Trek
Or Choose Another
Expedition Overview
Discover the path less traveled with our 8-day Kilimanjaro Trekking Adventure via the scenic Rongai Route. This unique trail begins on the northeastern side of the iconic mountain, offering a more remote and tranquil journey compared to the bustling Marangu Route.
Ideal for both novice trekkers and seasoned hikers, the Rongai Route provides a gentler slope, stunning wildlife sightings, and a serene atmosphere. And since the north side of the mountain is drier, it is an excellent choice for those venturing out during the rainy season.
With a combination of hotel stays and camping under the stars, this trekking expedition promises a blend of comfort and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience on Africa's highest peak.
Highlights:
Begin your journey with a comprehensive briefing and gear check at the comfortable Flamingo Hotel in Moshi, ensuring you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Trek through varied habitats, starting from the Nale Moru village and winding through corn and potato fields, pine forests, and encountering wildlife such as buffalo, elephants, and baboons.
Experience the tranquility of camping under the African sky, with nights spent at First Cave, Kikelewa Cave, Mawenzi Tarn Camp, Kibo Hut, and Horombo Hut.
Marvel at the unique flora of Kilimanjaro, including the giant lobelia and groundsel, as you traverse the moorlands.
Challenge yourself with a midnight summit attempt, navigating stone scree and ice-cap slopes to reach Uhuru Peak, the Roof of Africa.
Savor the breathtaking views from the summit, taking in the vast expanse of Africa spread out below you.
Enjoy well-deserved rest and celebration with a final night at the Flamingo Hotel in Moshi, complete with a hot shower and comfortable bed.
Opt for an additional city tour of Moshi or a visit to a Coffee Farm, depending on your departure time, adding an extra layer of cultural exploration to your journey.
Tailor your experience with optional extensions to national parks or the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, ensuring your adventure is exactly as you dreamed.
Ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime? Continue reading to uncover the day-by-day details of this exhilarating adventure, learn more about the unique experiences awaiting you, and find out how you can secure your spot on this unforgettable Kilimanjaro trek!
Discover the magic of the Rongai Route and take the first step towards conquering the Roof of Africa. Adventure awaits – delve deeper now!
When To Come
Embarking on a trek up Mount Kilimanjaro is a profound adventure, and timing your visit right is crucial to enhance your experience.
The Rongai Route, your pathway to the summit, is known for its gentler slopes and scenic beauty, providing a unique experience irrespective of the season. However, for the best conditions, we recommend planning your trek during one of Kilimanjaro’s two prime climbing seasons.
Best Times for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro:
June to October: This period marks the dry season and is generally considered the best time to climb Kilimanjaro. The weather is more stable, and the skies are clear, offering fantastic views of the mountain and surroundings. This is also the peak tourist season, so you’ll find the routes more crowded.
December to March: Another good window for climbing, this period offers slightly warmer temperatures and is also a popular choice among trekkers. The routes are less crowded compared to June to October, providing a more secluded experience.
Avoiding the Rainy Seasons:
April to May: These months see the long rains in Tanzania, making the trails on Kilimanjaro wet and muddy. While climbing is still possible, it’s more challenging, and the views are often obscured by clouds.
November: This month marks the short rains. The precipitation is less intense than in April and May, but the trails can still be slippery, and the weather can be unpredictable.
Combining with a Safari:
The dry seasons (June to October and December to March) are also ideal for safaris, as the wildlife tends to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
The Great Migration, one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife events, occurs in the Serengeti from June to July, and again in December to March, as the wildebeest and zebras move in search of fresh grazing grounds.
Tarangire National Park is particularly stunning in the dry season, with large herds of elephants and other wildlife drawn to the Tarangire River.
Ngorongoro Crater offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, but it's at its best during the dry season when the grass on the crater floor is short, making animals easier to spot.
When to Book:
Due to the popularity of climbing Kilimanjaro and going on a safari during the dry seasons, it’s crucial to book your trip well in advance. This ensures you secure your preferred accommodations and trekking arrangements, as well as any necessary permits.
For those looking to avoid the crowds, considering the shoulder seasons (late March, early June, and late October) might be a wise choice. The weather is relatively stable, and there are fewer tourists on the mountain and in the national parks.
By aligning your climbing expedition with Tanzania’s prime travel seasons, you ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience on Kilimanjaro and beyond.
Whether you’re aiming for the summit, eager to witness the majesty of Africa’s wildlife, or looking to soak in the cultural and natural beauty of Tanzania, the right timing makes all the difference.
Plan your journey today and step into a world of adventure that awaits you in Tanzania!
Expedition Summary
Day 1: Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi
Day 2: Rongai Trailhead to First Cave
Day 3: First Cave to Kikelewa Cave
Day 4: Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Day 5: Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
Day 6: Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Horombo Hut
Day 7: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Day 8: Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport
Please note: This is our most popular itinerary for the Rongai route. Customized itineries are available ranging from 5-10 days on the mountain.
Day 1 – Arrival in Moshi
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met and greeted by our representative, assisted with your baggage, and transferred to your hotel in Moshi.
After a shower and rest our expedition manager, together with our mountain guide will meet with you for a comprehensive briefing of the
days ahead. You'll have a chance to pack your mountain gear and equipment so you'll be ready for trekking the next morning.
If you are arriving late in the day, the briefing may happen the following morning, prior to departing the hotel for the mountain.
Meals: dinner & breakfast
Accommodation: Flamingo Hotel in Moshi
Day 2 – Rongai Trailhead to First Cave
Hiking time: approximately 4 hours
Distance: approximately 6 km
Habitat: Montane forest
After breakfast at the hotel, we provide a private transfer to Marangu gate for registrations then onward transfer to Rongai trailhead, approximately 2 hours from Moshi, where you'll meet your guide and the team of porters before beginning your hike from the Nale Moru village.
The small winding path takes us through corn and potato fields before the trail begins to climb gently through a pine forest that is home to a variety of wildlife including the black and white colobus monkey.
Tonight we'll stay in our first camp on the route, known as First Cave.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: under the tent
Day 3 – First Cave to Kikelewa Cave
Hiking time: approximately 6-7 hours
Distance: approximately 11.5 km
Habitat: Moorlands
Following a hot breakfast, hikers will continue their ascent to Kikelewa Cave (3600m). The trail passes Second Cave (3450m) and this is a good stop-over to take a break for lunch and restore your energy. The views start to open up and you begin to feel you’re on a really big mountain.
Similar to the first night, your tents will be set up prior to arriving at the camp and the crew will prepare drinking and washing water for you. You will enjoy evening snacks and then dinner prepared by our chef. Be prepared for a cold night as temperatures drop below freezing at this exposed camp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: under the tent
Day 4 – Kikelewa Cave to Mawenzi Tarn Camp
Hiking time: approximately 3-4 hours
Distance: approximately 3.5 km
Habitat: Moorlands
On this day, hikers will enjoy a short, yet steep trail to Mawenzi Tarn Camp (4330m). In the moorland, you will spot exotic plants, including giant lobelia and groundsel. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing and exploring the area around the camp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: under the tent
Day 5 - Mawenzi Tarn Camp to Kibo Hut
Hiking time: approximately 4-5 hours
Distance: approximately 9.5 km
Habitat: Alpine desert
After your delicious breakfast, you continue ascending on the east side of Kibo crossing the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo taking 4 to 5 hours to reach Kibo Hut.
Kibo is located in the “Saddle,” which refers to the area located between the peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo in an alpine desert. Early dinner will be served so hikers can rest to recover their energy before attempting the summit the same night. Your guide will brief you in detail on how to prepare for summit night, which always begins around midnight.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: under the tent
Day 6 – Kibo Hut to Uhuru Peak (5895m) to Horombo Hut
Hiking time: approximately 14-16 hours
Distance: approximately 20 km
Habitat: Stone scree/ice-cap summit
Wake up around midnight, and after some tea and biscuits you shuffle off into the night. This is where the toughest part of the route begins, simply because it starts at midnight, and you will be tired. The other reason is that, unlike the rest of the route, most of the climb up to the summit involves winding through scree-filled slopes. Every step up the mountain, also takes takes you half a step downward.
The first section of the trail consists of a rocky path to the Hans Meyer Cave (5150m), a good resting spot. The path then zigzags up to Gillman’s point (5 681m), which is located on the crater rim. From Gillman’s Point, you will normally encounter snow all the way up to the Uhuru peak (5895m), the highest point on the continent, known as the "Roof of Africa".
Weather conditions on the summit determine how long you will stay. Regardless, of weather, your stay on the "Roof" won’t be long.
After taking it all in, you will make a descent from the summit through Kibo Huts and finally spend a night back at Horombo Huts.
The total time spent walking on this day is around 14 -16 hours, so be prepared for a very tough day. It’s the most challenging day of the expedition, and it will reward you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget.
Later in the evening, you enjoy your last well-deserved dinner on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Horombo Hut
Day 7 – Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
Hiking time: approximately 5-6 hours
Distance: approximately 19 km
After breakfast you continue your descent, passing the Mandara hut, down to the Marangu gate. At Marangu gate you sign your name and details in a register.
This is also where successful climbers receive their summit certificates. Those who reached Gillman’s and Stella Point are issued with green certificates and those who reached Uhuru Peak receive gold certificates.
You now drive to the hotel in Moshi for a hot shower and a comfortable bed on this final night of your expedition.
Meals: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Flamingo Hotel in Mashi
Day 8 – Moshi to Kilimanjaro International Airport
Unless you've booked a safari or other extension with us, you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport after breakfast, arriving in time for your departure flight.
Depending on your departure time, there is the option of a tour of Moshi city or a local coffee farm.
Meal: breakfast and lunch
Every Day for the Rest of Your Life - Amazing Memories!
Expedition Rates & Inclusions
Rates are quoted in US$ per person, based on double occupancy (two guests traveling together, sharing accommodations). If you're traveling alone, or if there are more than 2 guests in your party we will work with you to ensure you get the best rates for whatever your group may require.
November 15, 2023 - December 31, 2024
$2,847
Rates are quoted in US$ and may fluctuate. Additionally, our hotel and lodging partners are wonderful, and as a result availability can change quickly. The rates above are accurate as of the time published, and are intended to help you easily choose a trip that fits within your budget.
Quoted or advertised rates are not guaranteed until our expert expedition planners have prepared your customized expedition proposal, you've agreed to the booking terms and conditions, and you have confirmed your chosen expedition with a deposit. We make the process very easy, and accept many credit cards.
Unlike many operators, we include those items that you're most likely to want or need, while attempting to give you the flexibility of choosing those optional activities or services that may be of particular interest to you. If you have any questions, or would like to modify your trip to include or exclude anything, just let us know and we'll be happy to work with you to create a customized Betheli Expedition that is the perfect fit.
Included
Personalized trip planning assistance and comprehensive planning materials, including detailed packing lists
Round trip transfers from/to Kilimanjaro Internatonal Airport (JRO)
Transfers to/from the base of the mountain
Full board accommodation whilst on the trek
3 Meal plan as detailed: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch and D=Dinner
Two nights at the hotel before and after trekking in Moshi
Accommodation in tents on the mountain as per the itinerary
All park entrance fees including government taxes
Service of a professional English-speaking Mountain guide
Porters and skilled cook
Treated water and boiled water on the trek
Oxygen tank
Flight evacuation
Mobile toilet
First aid kit
Not Included
International Airfare: Arrange your international flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Visas to Tanzania (if required)
Tips
Laundry
Sleeping bags/mattress (available for hiring, though we recommend bringing your own)
Drinks and climbing gears
Items of a personal nature and any other extras not detailed in the above itinerary
Step 3 - Experience
We've worked with you in Step #2 to plan the perfect itinerary and have collected everything we need to ensure a smooth arrival here in Tanzania. Now it's time for you to sit back and relax while we do the work (unless you're climbing Kilimanjaro with us, in which case you still have some work to do). Regardless, we'll be with you every step of the way to ensure that the only surprises will be the kind you want to have. We'll be here waiting for you, and look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful Tanzania.
Step 2 - Customize
Connect with us to plan the perfect adventure. Since we own the company, and manage every detail of your itinerary, we are able to accommodate many special requests. We don't like cookie-cutter experiences any more than you do, and that's why we will work directly with you to craft an Africa trip that is truly special. Once you're completely satisfied with your custom itinerary we make it safe and easy to confirm your reservation. Now it's time to move on to the last, and arguably the most important step, the experience.
Step 1 - Discover
Take a look at our expertly designed trips on the website and narrow it down to your favorite, or contact us and let us suggest an itinerary if you prefer. Don't forget to look at our most popular extensions to get some ideas for other activities you can experience while you're here. Our "pre-designed" trips are wonderful trips that have become client and guide favorites because they include many of the highlights you might expect to see while you are in Tanzania. It's likely that one of these trips will catch your attention, and get you excited about taking the next step.
Africa Is Only Three Easy Steps Away With A Betheli Expedition