The Mountain
One of the famed Seven Summits, the summit of Kilimanjaro is 19,341 feet (5,895 meters) above sea level and is the highest point in all of Africa. Reaching the summit has been the goal of global trekkers since it was first climbed in 1889 by Hans Meyer. Climbing Kilimanjaro is not just a personal accomplishment, but a team achievement, and we have found that team members become lifelong friends as a direct result of their shared goals and successes on Kilimanjaro.Alpenglow ascends via the Rongai Route, which is the best route for acclimatization, which increases our summit success rate. The Rongai is also the least crowded route, which really promotes an authentic experience for both the mountain and the Tanzanian culture. The Rongai route is somewhat longer than the busier routes and the trek is stunning and passes through every ecological zone found in East Africa. You begin in the rainforest, pass through alpine pines, then into grassland, alpine tundra, and eventually into the barren world of the crater itself. And for the first 5 days of climbing Kilimanjaro, you will see few other climbers or camps. To learn more visit AlpenglowExpeditions.com.
While the days can be strenuous, the Rongai Route is non-technical (there is no rock climbing, ice, snow, or ropes). A stellar team of local Tanzanians assist with our Kilimanjaro climb, acting as porters, kitchen staff, and local guides. Their experience and local knowledge will not only make your trip more comfortable (each day you carry only a light day pack, and the food is hearty and tasty), they will also add to your understanding of the mountain and the local people.
Highlights:
-
Allow yourself the highest probability of safety and success by signing up with Alpenglow’s open-enrollment program. In addition to using the best Tanzanian logistics coordinators, cooks, porters, and naturalists, you will be guided by one of our internationally certified guides.
-
Enjoy Kilimanjaro without the crowds by climbing the less-frequented Rongai Route and experience every ecological zone in the region.
-
Alpenglow’s itinerary and route selection give our team ample acclimatization time, an issue that often denies climbers’ summit success.
Check out some of the pictures of Kilimanjaro from our past expeditions: