Northern Mt. Kilimanjaro: Rongai III

A rare view of Mt. Kilimanjaro from the north side, at elevation. Mawenzi peak, to the left, is 5,149 metres (16,893 ft) while the highest peak on the right is 5,895 m (19,341 ft).

We've taken a few trips to Rongai (Trip I, Trip II) and although there isn't much to see in the area, the simple and adequate Snowcap Lodge and the significant change of altitude make for a nice mountain getaway.

We had never been to Rongai at this time of the year and we were surprised to find that the river was dry. We asked a local and they estimated that from September to December it was dry. Our main walk is focused on the thin strip of forest on the sides of the river and although it was quieter this time of year, it was still lush and green.

I really enjoyed the hotel ground this time around. The well landscaped area is a haven for sunbirds and provides a pleasant environment compared to the surrounding pine plantations. It is also a seemingly popular destination for weddings as the last two visits we've seen wedding processions take place here. It's interesting because it only seems to be a stopover for pictures, a procession (complete with a band and dancing) and then everyone gets back on the road and are gone as quickly as they arrived. Wedding parties come in at 4pm and are gone by 6pm and the crowd is naturally jubilant with many waves and smiles.

We were particularly happy this time around because we got the hot water working in the shower. Normally we don't have hot water showers but at this altitude (2,000m/6,500 ft) it is a must if you want to shower in the evening. They also have a fire in an over-sized fireplace in the lobby which would be an even better place to read and relax if not for the loud TV they also have in the room (which Tanzanians seem to be most interested in).

The only drawback to the trip is the elevation really takes it out of me. By the evening time I am so exhausted from walking that I can barely keep my eyes open. However, the combination of the cold, a bed stocked with blankets, the quiet surroundings, and the altitude, does make for some of my best nights sleep in Tanzania!

View of Snowcap Lodge.

The main rooms.

Inside the pine plantation.

Inside a sliver of natural forest.

In the nearly dry river with some pools remaining.

View of the plains to the east.