DAY 1: SALINERO KILIMANJARO, MOSHI

Moshi

Located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, close to the Kenyan border in Northern Tanzania, the vibrant town of Moshi is known as a coffee producing hub boasting vast coffee plantations. The majestic snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro towers over this little African town. Moshi serves as the gateway to the Kilimanjaro National Park and provides an excellent base from which to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Visitors can enjoy day trips, short hikes, or longer expeditions using Moshi as a starting point. Other popular activities include: spotting the Big Five on a wildlife safari, visiting a local village to learn about Maasai culture, and sampling mouth-watering Tanzanian cuisine.

Day Itinerary

Met and greet on arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport by our AMA Safaris Tanzania representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi where you will overnight in preparation for your climb the next day.
Directions – Kilimanjaro International Airport [JRO] to Salinero Kilimanjaro

Distance: 40.78km    Travel Time: 54 minutes

Overnight: Salinero Kilimanjaro      

Salinero Kilimanjaro is located 3kms from Moshi town centre in the leafy suburb of Shantytown. Accommodation consists of guest rooms, each equipped with an LCD TV and en-suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant. Other amenities offered are complimentary Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, a beautiful garden and a bar.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 2: SEKIMBA CAMP, MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Africa. Straddling the Kenya/Tanzania border, the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro rises up to an impressive 5896 metres above sea level. It is one of the world’s highest volcanoes, the highest mountain on the African continent, and the highest free-standing mountain on earth; making it an international destination attracting trekkers and mountaineers from around the globe. Set within the Kilimanjaro National Park, Kilimanjaro emerges from the sprawling plains of Tanzania and boasts dense tropical rainforests, glacial ice fields, moorlands, and mystical moonscapes. Take on the colossal challenge of climbing this majestic mountain, explore the lush forested foothills, soak up the breathtaking views or take a wildlife safari and spot some of Africa’s diverse wildlife including: elephant, buffalo, leopard, duiker, eland, hyrax, blue monkeys and more.

Day Itinerary

Your day starts early with breakfast and a briefing. Transfer by Land Rover through many villages and coffee plantations for 4 – 5hours to the attractive wooden village of Nale Muru (1,950 m/6,398 ft). After signing in and preparing the porters, you begin the hike on a wide path winding through fields of maize and potatoes, and then enter a pine forest. You then start to climb gently but consistently through attractive forest that shelters a variety of wildlife. The forest begins to thin and Simba Camp (2,600 m/8,530 ft) is near the “First Cave” at the edge of the moorland zone with extensive views over the Kenyan plains.

Transfers

Date	Pick Up	Drop Off	Time	Vehicle
Day  2	Salinero Kilimanjaro	Rongai Gate		Transfer

Overnight: Sekimba Camp   

Sekimba Camp is a campsite situated in Kilimanjaro National Park.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 3: KIKELEWA CAMP, MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro

As previously described

Day Itinerary

You make a steady ascent to the Second Cave where you have lunch. You leave the direct trail at the Second Cave and strike out across the moorland on a smaller path toward Mawenzi’s jagged peaks. After another 10 km, you reach the Kikelewa Camp in a sheltered valley with giant Senecios nearby. The Kikelewa Cave is also nearby.

Overnight: Kikelewa Camp  

The Kikelewa Camp is part of the Rongai Route which approaches Kilimanjaro from the North, near the Kenya-Tanzania border. At the camp, adventurers can enjoy the surrounding grassy slopes. The camp is near the Tsavo River which runs from Tsavo West National Park into Tanzania.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 4:  MAWENZI TARN CAMP, MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro

As previously described

Day Itinerary

You do a short, steep climb up grassy slopes rewarded by superb all-round views and a tangible sense of wilderness. Shortly after you leave the vegetation behind, you reach the Mawenzi Tarn, which is situated in a spectacular cirque directly beneath the towering spires of Mawenzi. After this short hike, you can spend the afternoon exploring this exciting area

Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp     

The Mawenzi Tarn Camp is located near the base of Mwenzi, which is one of the 3 peaks of Mount. Kilimanjaro and is mostly used by ascending climbers on the Rongai route. The accommodation comprises of tents as well as shared pit latrines and a nearby tarn provides undrinkable water to campers.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 5: MAWENZI TARN CAMP, MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro

As previously described

Day Itinerary

Your extra day on the mountain, and you will spend two nights at Mawenzi Tarn. You can hike up to Mawenzi for a splendid acclimatization hike.

Overnight: Mawenzi Tarn Camp     

The Mawenzi Tarn Camp is located near the base of Mwenzi, which is one of the 3 peaks of Mount. Kilimanjaro and is mostly used by ascending climbers on the Rongai route. The accommodation comprises of tents as well as shared pit latrines and a nearby tarn provides undrinkable water to campers.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 6:  KIBO HUT, MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro

As previously described

Day Itinerary

You cross the lunar desert of the saddle between Mawenzi and Kibo to reach the Kibo Huts at the bottom of Kibo’s crater wall. You should spend the remainder of the day resting and preparing for your summit climb.

Overnight: Kibo Hut

Kibo is a little basecamp set in the Kilimanjaro National Park. Climbers set camp here before leaving for Uhuru Peak. Accommodation at Kibo is provided in dormitory a room that caters to 60 people in a stone house.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 7: HOROMBO HUTS, MOUNT KILIMANJARO

Mount Kilimanjaro

As previously described

Day Itinerary

Wake at midnight to a light breakfast, and then prepare for your summit ascent. The goal is to climb before dawn so that you can reach Uhuru Peak shortly after sunrise. Leave at 0100hrs, switchback up steep screed or possibly snow, and reach Gilman’s Point on the crater rim at 5,861 m/18,640 ft between 0500hrs and 0700hrs. Here, views of the fabled crater and its icecaps greet you. Another 2 hours of hiking along the crater rim near the celebrated snows take you to Kilimanjaro’s true summit, Uhuru Peak, by 0900hrs. This is Africa’s highest point, and you would have to travel more than 3,000 miles toward the Himalayas to find a higher peak! Be sure to have your picture taken at the summit to show your friends. After your summit stays, descend back to the Kibo Huts, have lunch, rest, collect your things, and recross the saddle to the Horombo Huts. Eat dinner and get some well-deserved sleep.

You do the beginning of this climb in the dark with headlamps or flashlights. It will be very cold until you start descending, so you will need all of your warm layers. This is, by far, the most difficult part of the trek. Slowly slowly, or, “pole pole,” and an optimistic attitude will get you there!

Overnight: Horombo Huts   

The Horombo Huts are set along the Marangu Trail. This campsite can accommodate up to 120 campers. The Horombo Huts has bathrooms as well as a dining area and a shop selling refreshments.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 8: AIRPORT PLANET LODGE, ARUSHA

Arusha

Resting at the foot of Mount Meru, the sprawling city of Arusha is known as the safari capital of northern Tanzania. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the remarkably scenic surrounding area which includes majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as the Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro National Parks. Arusha is a good spot to take a day or two off from the safari circuit as it features a temperate climate and lush surrounds. Visitors can look forward to exploring the wildlife-abundant Serengeti National Park; the magnificent Arusha National Park; and taking on the challenge of climbing Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth highest mountain.

Day Itinerary

Wake, as usual, pack, and descend through the moorland to the Mandara Huts. Have lunch there then continue your triumphant recessional down through lush forest to the park gate, which you should reach around 1400hrs or 1500hrs. Remember to tip your guides, cooks, and porters, since you will be leaving them here.
A vehicle will take you back to your hotel in Moshi, where it is definitely time for celebration! . Later depart for your hotel in Arusha for dinner and overnight.

Transfers

Date	Pick Up	Drop Off	Time	Vehicle
Day 8	Marangu Gate	Airport Planet Lodge		Transfer

Overnight: Airport Planet Lodge     

Airport Planet Lodge is a quick 5 miles from the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Ideally located mid way between Moshi and Arusha, we pride ourselves for having one of the best panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru. The Lodge is in a safe compound with tropical gardens, fruit trees, plants, flowers and wild birds for nature lovers to enjoy.

Lodge amenities include a grand swimming pool, a restaurant that offers local and international cuisine, bars, a spa, fitness centre, Tanzanite and souvenirs shopping. For those looking to kill time between flights, the Lodge offers quick meals like pizza, burgers, snacks and excellent shower facilities ideal for those arriving or departing through the nearby Kilimanjaro Airport.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 9: COUNTRY LODGE KARATU, KARATU

Karatu

Travellers heading for the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater will inevitably pass through the town of Karatu in the green hills of Tanzania’s northern highlands. Presided over by the towering Ol Deani Volcano, this small, colourful town serves as a popular overnight stop for visitors exploring the area’s many game parks. The town offers a variety of activities including browsing the bustling marketplace, sampling beer at a local brewery, visiting a traditional Iraqw homestead, or taking a guided walk through the Ngorongoro Forest in search of waterfalls and elephants caves. Whether you are looking for cultural tours, hiking and biking opportunities, a chance to enjoy an authentic rural Tanzania experience, or simply a break between safari game drives, this underrated town has plenty to offer.

Day Itinerary

Breakfast and depart for Kararu. Today you will enjoy a full day at Mto wa Mbu Caltural Village. After breakfast, you set out to experience the cultural diversity of Mto-wa-Mbu, starting at the market and visiting a Chagga family producing banana beer and passing by many different farms. On the way, your guide will introduce you to the various fruits and vegetables growing in the area and explain the irrigation system that sustains local crops. After having a delicious, home-cooked meal in a local Mama’s home, visit the nearby centre for disabled kids and school. Late afternoon enjoy a visit to the Maasai Boma for the cultural encounter of a life time. The Maasai people are semi-nomadic herders, who choose to live a traditional lifestyle and are known for their distinctive traditional attire. Return to the lodge in Karatu.

Transfers

Date	Pick Up	Drop Off	Time	Vehicle
Day 9	Airport Planet Lodge	Country Lodge Karatu		Transfer

Overnight: Country Lodge Karatu    

Located on the outskirts of Karatu, a quaint country town on the Great Escarpment, midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Country Lodge is situated in the centre of Northern Tanzania’s green belt district and farming community.

Country Lodge Karatu symbolizes simple country comforts, providing pleasant and affordable lodging in the heart of Tanzania’s rich and scenic highlands. We are the ideal ‘Stepping Stone’ for safaris into Ngorongoro Crater and beyond, as well as other travellers visiting the area. Our lodge sits within five acres nestled on the edge of Karatu town, surrounded by rolling plains reaching up to the coffee hills of Oldeani and the forests’ of Ngorongoro.

Garden paths led to eleven double cottages surrounded by green lawns, hedged by brightly flowered bougainvillaea, tropical plants and trees. Birds and butterflies feel right at home in the garden, as you will in our lodgings. Come and enjoy the tranquillity, home comforts and warm Tanzanian hospitality that Country Lodge offers.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 10: COUNTRY LODGE KARATU, KARATU

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, depart with picnic lunch boxes for a game drive at Lake Manyara National Park, one of the Rift Valley’s numerous alkaline lakes, which apart from its abundant bird life, is known for its tree-climbing lions.  Afterwards depart for your lodge in Karatu for dinner and overnight.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 11:  SERENGETI KATI KATI TENTED CAMP, CENTRAL SERENGETI

Central Serengeti

Situated in the heart of Tanzania, the Central Serengeti encompasses the world-famous Seronera Valley which is known for its prime wildlife-viewing opportunities. This picture-perfect landscape is characterized by endless stretches of savannah-covered open plains, interspersed by rocky outcrops of granite, scattered with acacia woodlands and covered in a network of rivers and streams.

The Central Serengeti forms part of the great wildebeest and zebra migration and provides an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife such as giraffe, impala, waterbuck, hippo, elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, hyena, jackal, serval and much more. Popular activities include: game viewing, cultural tours, horse riding safaris, and hot air ballooning over the spectacularly scenic terrain.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park, undoubtedly the most famous wildlife sanctuary in the world, unequalled for its natural beauty and the greatest concentration of plains game anywhere. En route visit the Olduvai Gorge site of archaeological findings, where traces of pre-historic man dating back to 3.5 million years ago have been discovered. Arrive for lunch at your camp.  Afternoon game drives until sunset.

Transfers

Date	Pick Up	Drop Off	Time	Vehicle
Day 11	Country Lodge Karatu	Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp		Transfer

Overnight: Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp          

The camp offers comfortable accommodation and a unique opportunity to enjoy a real safari camp experience. The camp is only a two hour scenic drive from Olduvai Gorge Museum and Grumeti River.

A cosy mess tent is located in the centre of the camp where meals are served. The campfire is ready every evening for appetizers and snacks before dinner. Ten double tents and one family tent with en suite facilities.

There are several airstrips in the National Park that receive schedule flights from Arusha as well as charter flights.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 12: SERENGETI KATI KATI TENTED CAMP, CENTRAL SERENGETI

Day Itinerary

All day spent in the Serengeti with morning and afternoon game drives.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 13: BOUGAINVILLEA SAFARI LODGE, KARATU

Karatu

As previously described

Day Itinerary

Early breakfast and depart with Picnic lunch boxes for Ngorongoro. Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact caldera in the world. Its enduring charm stems from its overwhelming beauty and the abundance of wildlife permanently resident on the crater floor. Enjoy a crater tour. Later ascend and drive out of the park onto your overnight lodge

Transfers

Date	Pick Up	Drop Off	Time	Vehicle
Day 13	Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp	Bougainvillea Safari Lodge		Transfer

Overnight: Bougainvillea Safari Lodge        

Located on the outskirts of the town of Karatu in Tanzania, Bougainvillea Safari Lodge is an excellent option for a countryside getaway. Accommodation options feature comfortably furnished cottages. The cottages are equipped with mosquito nets, bathrooms and fireplaces. Guests can enjoy meals and drinks at the on-site dining area and bar. Guests can make use of amenities such as the swimming pool.

Basis

Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

DAY 14: END OF ITINERARY

Day Itinerary

After breakfast and check out. Depart for Arusha for lunch and later transfer to Kilimanjaro International airport for your outbound flight

Basis

Breakfast