Iconic treks in Tanzania
Join a 14 day trek to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro – The roof of Africa. Keeping away from the tourist trails, (known as the CocaCola) route we take the locally known Whiskey route. However, you'll start the adventure with a three or four day climb of Mt Meru, this includes a trek through the Arusha National Park, where hopefully we will spot some of the big game in the area.
A typical itinerary is detailed below
The Journey to Tanzania
Your first glimpse of Mt Kilimanjaro and the main summit of Uhuru will probably be from the plane shortly after laving Nairobi on route to Dar-es-Salaam.
Day 1. In country Travel
Flying direct to Kilimanjaro international airport is one option, however, we find flying to Dar es Salaam, the former coastal capital of Tanzania, is a much more informative option. Dar es Salaam, translates as Haven of Peace. Beaches, markets, harbours all to explore on arrival and before heading to the north of Tanzania and Kilimanjaro. Travel to the North of Tanzania and our base hotel in Moshi, is by local, in country coach, an experience in itself. Passing small villages, markets, the Pare and Usumbara Mountians, sisal plantations stretching for miles. A whole day journey, but a real insight into rural Africa and an idea of the scale of this fascinating continent.
The Base Hotel
Staying in Moshi, a good market town near to the Kilimanjaro climb. Travelling from here to Arusha National Park for the Meru acclimatisation trek and returning for a rest day before Kilimajaro. In all you will spend 4 nights at this base hotel. Equipped with a good bar, inclusive of all meals and swimming pool.
Day 2-4, Mt Meru Trek
At over 14,000 feet, Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania.
A three day or more leisurely 4 day trek on this mountain leads to good
acclimatisation and improves hill fitness ready for the big trek. Not
to be underestimated this is a serious trek. Overnight to the summit.
Walking through the National Park is thrilling, guided by armed rangers,
just in case the wildlife get a bit too close! Returning to the base
hotel for two nights giving everyone a rest day and a chance to pop into
town for some souvenirs.
Subject to group fitness, we usually take a rest day at the Base Hotel before commencing the Kilimanjaro Climb. Alternatively we press onto Kilimanjaro after just one night and have an extra day at the end of the trek for rest and shopping.
Day 5 - 10, Mt Kilimanjaro.
After returning for a good night at the base hotel we get an early start to Mt Kilimanjaro. Check in at the Kilimanjaro National Park gate, then set off with our porters carrying the bulk of the equipment required for the next 5 or 6 nights on the mountain. Our first day is spent walking through Montane forest. Arriving at the first camp, effects of altitude are only mild.
Day 11, Return travel to Dar es Salaam.
Return to the coastal city of Dar es Salaam for a relaxing night in the Peacock Hotel. Comfortable rooms and a great restaurant. Take a short walk to the local market or just 20 minutes to the city centre, more street sellers and the fish market down near the harbour. A thriving city, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Day 12-13, Additional Sightseeing or Travel Home.
Subject to flight availability we will continue with some sightseeing, we might have needed this extra day on the mountains, or just travel home to relive this fantastic experience.
