Itineraries

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

**Arrival and Transfer:**

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our friendly airport team will be there to warmly welcome you. We’ll assist you with visa processing and luggage retrieval, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

**Welcome Refreshments:**

Enjoy a refreshing drink and light snacks while we complete your arrival formalities. This is a great opportunity to relax and acclimate to the Tanzanian atmosphere.

**Transfer to Accommodation:**

Your driver guide will then transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. Settle in, unwind, and enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.

**About Arusha:**

Arusha is a vibrant city in Northern Tanzania, serving as the capital of the Arusha Region. With a population of approximately 416,442, and an additional 323,198 in the surrounding district, it is a bustling hub at the base of Mount Meru. Arusha is nestled on the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley’s eastern branch and boasts a temperate climate that contrasts with the surrounding regions.

**Proximity to Major Attractions:**

Arusha’s strategic location makes it an ideal gateway to some of Tanzania’s most renowned national parks and conservation areas. It’s conveniently close to the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Arusha National Park on Mount Meru.

**Evening at Leisure:**

Enjoy your evening at the hotel, where you can prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp

**Transfer to Londorossi Gate:**

The Lemosho Route begins on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro. Depending on your starting point, reaching Londorossi Gate (2,100 meters) will take approximately 2 hours from Moshi and longer from Arusha.

**Registration and Transfer:**

Upon arrival at Londorossi Gate, you’ll need to register with the Kilimanjaro National Park authorities. After completing the registration, you'll continue by vehicle for an additional 12 kilometers to reach the starting point of the trek. Note that during the wet season, the road can be challenging, and you may need to walk the final stretch to the trailhead.

**Lunch and Start of Trek:**

Most tour operators will provide lunch at this point. After your meal, you’ll begin a short trek to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,820 meters). This section of the trek offers the opportunity to spot large wildlife, such as elephants and buffaloes. For safety, you may be accompanied by an armed guide to ensure that you’re well-protected from any potential encounters with the Big Five.

**Arrival at Mti Mkubwa Camp:**

Upon reaching Mti Mkubwa Camp, you’ll be greeted with a warm meal for dinner, followed by a well-deserved rest. This camp, named after the large trees in the area, provides a comfortable and scenic setting for your first night on the mountain.

Day 3: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira One Camp

**Morning Hike:**

After a hearty breakfast at Mti Mkubwa Camp, you’ll embark on a gradual hike through the remaining stretch of the lush rainforest zone. As you ascend, the terrain becomes steeper and transitions into the low alpine moorland zone.

**Trek to Shira One Camp:**

The trek to Shira One Camp covers approximately 8 kilometers and is a full-day hike. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

**Lunch Break:**

You will have a brief stop for lunch en route to Shira One Camp. Enjoy your meal while taking in the spectacular scenery of the Shira Plateau.

**Arrival at Shira One Camp:**

Upon arrival at Shira One Camp, situated on the western edge of the Shira Plateau, you’ll be greeted with stunning vistas of Kibo Peak across the plateau. The camp provides a perfect spot for relaxation and acclimatization.

**Evening at the Camp:**

Dinner will be served at the camp, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's hike while enjoying the serene mountain environment. Overnight accommodation will be at Shira One Camp, offering a comfortable setting as you continue your adventure on Kilimanjaro.

### Day 4: Shira One Camp to Shira Hut

**Morning Exploration:**

After breakfast at Shira One Camp, begin a day of exploration on the expansive Shira Plateau. The walk will be gentle and relatively easy, heading east towards the glaciated peak of Kibo.

**Hike to Shira Hut:**

You’ll traverse the plateau, enjoying the unique landscape and breathtaking views. The hike will lead you across moorland meadows and past a stream to Shira Hut, located at Shira 2 Camp. This area is an excellent spot for acclimatization and provides stunning vistas of the plateau and surrounding peaks.

**Acclimatization and Exploration:**

The Shira Plateau offers a variety of walking options, including trails on Lent Hills. These walks are designed to help you acclimate to the higher altitude while offering diverse views and experiences. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on Earth, and this day allows you to fully appreciate its vast, open landscapes.

**Evening at Shira Hut:**

Return to Shira Hut in the late afternoon for dinner and an overnight stay. Enjoy the serene environment and prepare for the upcoming stages of your climb.

Day 5: Shira Hut to Barranco Hut

**Morning and Afternoon Trek:**

Depart from Shira Hut and continue eastward, traversing the semi-desert landscape beyond the Shira Plateau. You’ll ascend a ridge, passing the junction that leads toward the peak of Kibo. The trek then shifts southeast towards the iconic Lava Tower, known as the "Shark's Tooth."

**High Altitude Experience:**

After passing Lava Tower, you’ll encounter the second junction leading up to the Arrow Glacier, located at approximately 16,000 feet. This area provides a dramatic perspective of Kilimanjaro’s glaciers and offers a glimpse of the challenging terrain ahead.

**Descent to Barranco Hut:**

From Arrow Glacier, descend to Barranco Hut, situated at 13,000 feet. This descent helps with acclimatization by allowing your body to adjust to the altitude while still gaining valuable height during the day.

**Evening at Barranco Hut:**

Arrive at Barranco Hut in the late afternoon. Rest, enjoy a well-deserved dinner, and prepare for the next day’s adventure. Despite ending the day at a lower altitude than your previous high point, this strategic approach is crucial for acclimatization and preparing your body for the upcoming summit attempt.

### Day 6: Barranco Hut to Karanga Hut

**Morning Trek:**

Begin your day with a challenging but exhilarating climb up the Barranco Wall. Despite its daunting appearance, the ascent is often easier than expected and offers spectacular views of Kilimanjaro’s rugged landscape. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas and the striking contrast of the Heim Glacier.

**Descent and Traverse:**

Once at the top of the Barranco Wall, the route descends into the Karanga Valley. Traverse through a series of ridges and valleys, soaking in the diverse and dramatic scenery. This section of the trek showcases the varied terrain and natural beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro.

**Joining the Mweka Route:**

Upon reaching Karanga Valley, you'll join the Mweka Route, which is the primary descent route from the summit. Take note of this path as it will be part of your return journey.

**Final Water Stop:**

Karanga Valley is the last water source before reaching Barafu Camp, so make sure to refill your water bottles here.

**Evening at Karanga Hut:**

Arrive at Karanga Hut in the late afternoon. Settle into your camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest for the night. The camp is situated at a comfortable altitude, providing a good opportunity to acclimatize before the final push to the summit.

### Day 7: Karanga Valley Camp to Barafu Hut

**Morning Departure:**

After a hearty breakfast at Karanga Camp, start your trek towards Barafu Hut. The path ascends steadily, gaining 640 meters in elevation. As you hike, be prepared for a challenging terrain that becomes increasingly exposed to the elements.

**Arrival at Barafu Hut:**

Barafu, meaning “ice” in Swahili, is known for its harsh conditions. The camp is situated on a narrow, rocky ridge with minimal protection from the wind. Ensure you are familiar with the campsite layout before darkness falls to avoid any hazards. The stark environment is a stark contrast to the lush vegetation you’ve encountered earlier in the trek.

**Preparation for Summit Attempt:**

With the summit a further 1,214 meters higher, preparation is key for your upcoming ascent. Organize and check your gear thoroughly:

- **Hiking Poles:** Ensure they are in good condition.

- **Thermal Clothing:** Layer up to stay warm in freezing temperatures.

- **Headlamp and Camera Batteries:** Replace batteries and carry spares to avoid issues in the cold.

- **Water:** Use a thermal flask to keep your water from freezing.

**Rest and Sleep:**

Try to rest and sleep as much as possible before your summit attempt. Going to bed early will help you conserve energy for the challenging climb ahead.

### Day 8: Uhuru Peak to Mweka Hut

**Early Ascent to Summit:**

Your summit day begins around 11:20 PM. After a light snack of tea and biscuits, you will start your ascent in the dark, heading north-west through the scree. This challenging climb will lead you to Stella Point on the crater rim. Here, you’ll take a short, well-deserved break to catch your breath and collect your remaining gear.

**Summit Success and Descent:**

From Stella Point, continue your climb to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro. After reaching the summit, take some time to savor the breathtaking views and capture photographs.

**Descent to Mweka Hut:**

Begin your descent from Uhuru Peak by retracing your steps back to Stella Point. From there, you will head down a rock and scree path that transitions into moorland and eventually into the forested area. This descent can be long, but the route is straightforward.

**Arrival at Mweka Hut:**

You will reach Mweka Hut (3,090 meters) where you will spend the night. Located in the upper forest, the area can be misty or rainy in the late afternoon. Upon arrival, you will be provided with dinner and water for washing.

Rest and reflect on your incredible achievement as you prepare for your final descent the next day.

### Day 9: Mweka Hut to Arusha

**Descent from Mweka Hut:**

After an early and well-deserved breakfast at Mweka Hut, begin your final descent. The scenic hike back to Mweka Gate typically takes between 4 to 6 hours. Please be prepared for potential knee discomfort, which can make the descent longer. For safety and to ensure all your gear is accounted for, it’s advised to withhold porter tips until you have safely reached the gate.

**At Mweka Gate:**

Upon arrival at Mweka Gate, you will need to sign the register to mark the end of your climb. Here, you will receive your summit certificate:

- **Gold Certificate** for those who reached Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters).

- **Green Certificate** for those who reached Stella Point (5,739 meters).

**Transfer to Mweka Village:**

From Mweka Gate, continue to Mweka Village, a 3-kilometer (approximately 1-hour) hike, often through muddy terrain. In Mweka Village, enjoy a delicious hot lunch as a well-earned reward.

**Return to Arusha:**

After lunch, drive back to Arusha. Here, you can unwind and relish a long-awaited hot shower at your lodge, reflecting on your remarkable achievement.

### Day 10: Tarangire National Park

**Morning Drive:**

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a drive to Tarangire National Park. This lesser-visited gem of Northern Tanzania offers a unique safari experience with its renowned elephant migration and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.

**Full-Day Game Drive:**

Once in the park, enjoy a full day of game driving. Tarangire is known for its large elephant herds, picturesque baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for herds of giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Your driver-guide will provide insightful commentary on the park’s ecosystems and wildlife.

**Lunch in the Park:**

For lunch, a gourmet picnic will be prepared for you in the park. Enjoy a hot meal featuring soup, bread rolls, a main dish, and fruit salad. Complement your meal with a glass of wine, tea, or coffee.

**Evening Arrival:**

In the evening, check in to your lodge or camp, where you’ll unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Dinner will be served at the lodge or camp, providing a relaxing end to your day in Tarangire.

**About Tarangire National Park:**

Tarangire National Park is located slightly off the main safari circuit, making it a quieter and more authentic destination. Known for its seasonal elephant migrations and rich birdlife, it offers an intimate safari experience. Many travelers either skip Tarangire or visit for only a short time, leaving much of the park’s untouched beauty and tranquility waiting for you to explore.

### Day 11: Serengeti National Park

**Morning Drive:**

After a delightful breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park. Your goal today is to witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, one of the most remarkable wildlife events on the planet. Depending on the season, you'll either see the massive herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains or observe them in their calving grounds.

**Lunch in the Park:**

Upon arrival in Serengeti, enjoy a luxurious picnic lunch prepared by your driver-guide. The meal includes a selection of soup, bread rolls, a main dish, and fruit salad, complemented by a glass of wine, tea, or coffee. Unlike other safari options that may offer a cold sandwich, our 5-star service ensures you experience a gourmet dining experience amidst the stunning Serengeti landscape.

**Afternoon Game Drive:**

After lunch, set out on an afternoon game drive. Explore the vast plains and witness the incredible wildlife spectacle of the Great Migration. Keep an eye out for predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards, who follow the herds in search of a meal.

**Evening Arrival:**

In the evening, check in at your luxurious camp, where you will enjoy a sumptuous dinner. Reflect on the day's adventures and savor the tranquil setting of the Serengeti.

**About Serengeti National Park:**

Serengeti National Park is renowned for its rich wildlife, including the legendary "Big Five"—lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino. The park boasts Africa's largest lion population, with over 3,000 individuals roaming its vast plains. The Serengeti is also famous for its annual Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the park in search of fresh grazing grounds. This ecosystem supports a dynamic range of predators and prey, making Serengeti a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

### Day 12: Serengeti - Ngorongoro Conservation Area

**Morning Game Drive:**

Start your day with a final game drive in the Central Serengeti. Focus on spotting big cats and other members of the Big Five. The Serengeti's diverse landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

**Lunch in the Park:**

Your driver-guide will set up a luxurious picnic lunch in the Serengeti. Enjoy a spread that includes soup, bread rolls, a main dish, and fruit salad, along with a glass of wine, tea, or coffee. This gourmet meal, served in the heart of the park, is a step above the standard safari fare.

**Travel to Ngorongoro:**

In the late afternoon, depart Serengeti and drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This journey offers scenic views of the Tanzanian highlands and the unique landscape of the Ngorongoro Crater. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

**Ngorongoro Conservation Area:**

Ngorongoro is part of one of the most pristine and well-preserved ecosystems in Africa. It, along with Serengeti National Park and Kenya's Masai Mara, forms a crucial part of the greatest and most varied collection of terrestrial wildlife on the planet. The conservation area is renowned for its stunning landscapes and its rich diversity of wildlife, including the rare black rhino.

**Quote for Reflection:**

Laurens van der Post once observed, “The only living things which look as if they really belonged to it are the wild animals. Between the animals and Africa, there is an understanding that the human beings have not yet earned.” This quote captures the profound connection between Africa's wildlife and its land, a connection you'll experience firsthand as you explore these remarkable regions.

### Day 13: Ngorongoro Crater Tour

**Morning Game Drive:**

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, embark on a full-day game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater. This unique volcanic caldera, the largest intact caldera in the world, offers an exceptional wildlife viewing experience. The crater is renowned for its dense population of wildlife and stunning landscapes.

**Gourmet Picnic Lunch:**

Your driver-guide will prepare a delightful picnic lunch under the shade of your vehicle. Enjoy a delicious spread featuring soup, bread rolls, a main dish, and fruit salad, accompanied by a glass of wine, tea, or coffee. This luxurious meal is served in the heart of the crater, adding to the day's exceptional experience.

**Afternoon Exploration:**

Continue your game drive through the crater, which measures about 20 kilometers across and 600 meters deep. The Ngorongoro Crater is a natural wonder, home to a remarkable array of wildlife. You will have the opportunity to visit Lake Magadi, a large, shallow alkaline lake located in the southwestern corner of the crater. Lake Magadi attracts a variety of wildlife, including large numbers of hippos, flamingos, and other waterbirds.

**Return to Camp:**

As the day comes to a close, return to your camp for dinner and an overnight stay. Reflect on the day’s adventures in one of Africa’s most spectacular natural settings.

**Highlights:**

- **Ngorongoro Crater:** The jewel of Ngorongoro, this vast caldera is a breathtaking natural wonder.

- **Lake Magadi:** A prominent feature of the crater, known for its vibrant birdlife and stunning scenery.

- **Wildlife Viewing:** The crater is home to a diverse range of animals, including the Big Five.

Your exploration of Ngorongoro Crater will provide an unforgettable conclusion to your Tanzanian safari adventure.

### Day 14: Lake Manyara National Park - Arusha - Departure

**Morning Walking Safari:**

After a satisfying breakfast at the lodge, start your day with a unique walking safari in Lake Manyara National Park. Accompanied by an experienced armed ranger, you’ll explore the park on foot, gaining a new perspective on its diverse flora and fauna.

**Game Drive and Gourmet Lunch:**

Following the walking safari, embark on a game drive across the park’s varied landscapes. Your driver-guide will prepare a sumptuous lunch in the heart of the park, featuring a full spread of soup, bread rolls, a main dish, and fruit salad, complemented by a glass of wine, tea, or coffee. Enjoy this relaxing meal amidst the beauty of Lake Manyara’s scenery.

**Afternoon Game Drive:**

Continue your game drive in the afternoon, taking in the park’s highlights. Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its rich birdlife, with over 400 species recorded, and it offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The park is also famous for its acacia woodlands, where you might spot the legendary tree-climbing lions and large, tusked elephants.

**Return to Arusha:**

In the late afternoon, make your way back to Arusha. From there, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.

**Highlights:**

- **Walking Safari:** Explore the park on foot, guided by a knowledgeable ranger.

- **Lake Manyara:** Known for its diverse birdlife and impressive wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and large elephants.

- **Gourmet Lunch:** Enjoy a freshly prepared, full meal in the midst of the park’s natural beauty.

This final day offers a memorable conclusion to your Tanzanian adventure, blending exciting wildlife encounters with scenic relaxation before your departure.

### Important to Know

- **Solo Travelers:** This tour is not available for solo travelers.

- **Children:** This tour is not suitable for children.

- **Rates:** Rates are per person and exclude international flights to/from your home country.

**Rates Per Person:**

- **January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024:** $5,049

- *Note: This tour is not available for solo travelers.*

Included

- **Porterage**

- **Park Fees:** For non-residents

- **All Activities:** Unless labeled as optional

- **All Accommodation:** Unless listed as upgrade

- **Camping Equipment**

- **Professional Driver/Guide**

- **All Transportation:** Unless labeled as optional

- **All Taxes/VAT**

- **Roundtrip Airport Transfer**

- **Meals:** As specified in the day-by-day section

- **Drinks:** As specified in the day-by-day section

- **Sleeping Bag**

- **Bath Towels**

### Excluded

- **Rescue Fee**

- **Climbing Gear**

- **International Flights:** From/to home

- **Additional Accommodation:** Before and after the tour

- **Tips:** Tipping guideline is $10.00 per person per day

- **Personal Items:** Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.

- **Government Imposed Increases:** Taxes and/or park fees

- **Some Meals:** As specified in the day-by-day section