18-Day Mid-Range Kilimanjaro Climb, Mara River Crossing Safari & Zanzibar Holiday

Moshi to Lemosho Gate to Forest Camp (Mti Mkubwa Camp)

Elevation (ft): 7,800ft to 9,500ft

Distance: 6 km

Hiking Time:3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Full board at Forest Camp Know as {Big tree Camp}.

We depart from Moshi for Lemosho Gate, which takes about 2-3 hours, where you will complete entry formalities and lunch. Then commence through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site which is Forest Camp Know as {Big tree Camp / Mi Mkubwa}.

Forest Camp to Shira One Camp

Elevation (ft): 9,500ft to 11,500ft

Distance: 8 km

Hiking Time 5-6 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Full Board at Shira One Camp

We continue on the trail leading out of the forest and into a savannah of tall grasses, heather, and volcanic rock draped with lichen beards. As we ascend through the lush rolling hills and cross several streams, we reach the Shira Ridge before dropping gently down to Shira 1 Camp. The view of Kibo from across the plateau is amazing.

Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

Elevation (ft): 11,500ft to 13,800 ft

Distance: 14 km

Hiking Time: 5-7 hours

Habitat: Moorland

Full Board at Shira 2 camp

We explore the Shira plateau for a full day. It is a gentle walk east toward Kibo’s glaciered peak, across the plateau which leads to Shira 2 camp on moorland meadows by a stream. A variety of walks are available on Lent Hills making this an excellent acclimatization opportunity. Shira is one of the highest plateaus on earth.

Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco

Elevation (ft): 13,800ft to 13,000ft

Distance: 7 km

Hiking Time: 4-6 hours

Habitat: Semi Desert

Full Board at Shira 2

From the Shira Plateau, we continue to the east up a ridge, passing the junction towards the peak of Kibo. As we continue, our direction changes to the South East towards the Lava Tower, called the “Shark’s Tooth.” Shortly after the tower, we come to the second junction which brings us up to the Arrow Glacier at an altitude of 16,000ft. We now continue down to the Barranco Camp at an altitude of 13,000ft. Here we rest, enjoy dinner, and overnight. Although you end the day at the same elevation as when you started, this day is very important for acclimatization and will help your body prepare for summit day.

Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,000ft to 13,100ft

Distance: 5km

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Full Board at Karanga Camp

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. This is a short day meant for acclimatization.

Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Elevation (ft): 13,100ft to 15,300ft

Distance: 4 km

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours

Habitat: Alpine Desert

Full Board at Barafu Camp

After breakfast, we leave Karanga Camp and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Camp. At this point, you have completed the South Circuit, which offers views of the summit from many different angles. Here we make camp, rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the summit day. The two peaks of Mawenzi and Kibo are to be seen from this position.

Barafu Camp to Uhuru Peak Summit to Mweka Camp

Elevation (ft): 15,300ft to 19,345ft (and down to 10,000ft)

Distance: 5 km ascent / 12 km descent

Hiking Time: 7-8 hours ascent / 4-6 hours descent

Habitat: Arctic

Full Board at Mweka Camp

Very early in the morning (midnight to 2am), we continue our way to the summit between the Rebmann and Ratzel glaciers. You head in a northwesterly direction and ascend through heavy scree towards Stella Point on the crater rim. This is the most mentally and physically challenging portion of the trek.

Mweka Camp to Moshi, then Arusha

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft

Distance: 10 km

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

Habitat: Rain Forest

Half Board

After breakfast we continue the descent down to the Mweka Park Gate to receive your summit certificates. At lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy. Gaiters and trekking poles will help. Shorts and t-shirts will probably be plenty to wear (keep rain gear and warmer clothing handy). Africa Natural Tours vehicle will be waiting for you at Mweka gate to drive you back to Moshi for lunch, then transfer to your hotel in Arusha.

Arusha to Central Serengeti National Park

We will leave Arusha early morning and travel to Central Serengeti National Park. We will travel on a road near the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, allowing for animal sightings along the way. The golden savannah and endless plains, teeming with zebras, wildebeest and giraffes make it easy to understand why the Serengeti National Park is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. On this day, we will enjoy a picnic lunch on Naabai kopje (a small, rocky hill in a generally flat area), where you will have the opportunity to view Serengeti’s famous pink-headed lizards. After lunch, we will proceed further into the plains for a leisurely game drive. You will spend the night at the Central Serengeti National Park.

Central to North Serengeti National Park (Kogatende) River crossing

After breakfast, we\'ll start our game drive to the Kogatende area, searching around the kopjes looking for carnivores and the large migration groups that will be preparing to cross the Mara River into Kenya. Home to large numbers of hippos and Nile crocodiles, the Mara River is the last major obstacle standing between the Wildebeest Migration and the relative safety of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. If you're patient and a little lucky, you may even get to witness the death-defying crossing itself where wildebeest and zebras brave the river\'s currents and crocodiles in an attempt to reach safety. Dinner and overnight North Serengeti National Park.

North to Central Serengeti National Park (Seronera)

After breakfast you will proceed to continue our game drive in Kogatende and Bologonja Area with much focus on the Great Wildebeests Migration. Enjoy picnic lunch under the Acacia Tree with a spectacular view of Great Wildebeests Migration and the Mountain ranges of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. If we are lucky, we might see the Crossing of the Great Migration passing through the Mara River to Maasai Mara National Reserve an event one should never miss to see. Later in the afternoon, we will drive back to Central Serengeti National Park at your Camp for a nice dinner and a decent overnight. Accommodation Plan: Full Board Basis.

Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Conservations Area

After reakfast, we get right on the road back towards the Ngorongoro Crater. Our drive takes us back through the Central Serengeti National Park via a different route, offering plenty of opportunities to spot the animals. As far as the eye can see, you’ll spot thousands upon thousands of animals in herds; wildebeests and zebras migrating together, tall and graceful giraffes, jumping antelopes and gazelles, the powerful African elephant and the most respected group of animals: the predators. You will have the chance to spot lean cheetahs and shy leopards, foraging hyenas, and last but not least, the king himself; the lion. Dinner and overnight on the rim of the Ngorongoro.

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

After an early morning breakfast, we will hurry to Ngorongoro Crater, as it is the best time to visit. On this day, we will enjoy a game drive around the Ngorongoro Crater, stopping for a picnic lunch at a small lake within the park, home to numerous hippos and migratory birds. The crater’s unique “oasis” environment makes it highly likely to spot all members of Africa’s Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. Formed over two million years ago by a volcanic collapse, the caldera is now teeming with wildlife including zebras, hippos, wildebeest, hyenas, and flocks of flamingos along Soda Lake. Majestic storks, ibis, and cranes add to the spectacular birdlife, while hawks and vultures patrol the skies. After an afternoon filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, we will return to Arusha.

Arusha Fly To Zanzibar

Up on arrival meet our presentative accompanied with the driver, they will pick you to hotel for relaxing and around 7:00 pm. Our presentative will come for you for Forodhani Night Tour to experience the Forodhani Park Night Touring. Then return you to hotel where you will overnight.

Spice Farms & Stone Town Tour

On this day, you will explore by testing, smelling different spices grown and used in Zanzibar cuisines. Enjoy a delicious local made Spiced rice lunch at the Spice farm; including fresh fried fish and fruits like banana, Mangoes, Pineapple etc Learn the History of Zanzibar and Stone Town with a local professional tour guide by visiting most iconic buildings like House of Wonders, Freddie Mercury House, Former Slave Market, Sultan’s Palace. Make photos and buy gifts for friends & family from the souvenir shops in Stone Town streets. After the trip, our driver will pick us up for the Airport based on your flight timing. Then transfer to the hotel where you will overnight at your hotel where you will overnight.

Prison Island with Nakupenda Sandbank

Pick up from the Hotel after finishing your breakfast, the driver will be waiting at the reception. This will be a full day boat trip to Prison Island and Nakupenda sandbank near the stone town coast. Witness and take photos of the Aldabra giant tortoises in the Prison Island. And learn the short history of the Prison island. Sandbank relaxing, Swimming & Snorkeling at natural made nakupenda sandbank. Enjoy the best fresh seafood barbeque; Octopus, Lobsters, squids, Calamaris, at Nakupenda sandbank. Exotic fresh fruit tasting like Banana, Watermelon, Pineapple, Mangoes, papaya and so on. After the trip, driver will pick you up to Hotel.

Mnemba Island Snorkeling Tour

Mnemba Island is a very small private island located about 3 km off the Matemwe Beach (Muyuni), northeast coast of Unguja, Zanzibar. This is the only island found on the Northeast coast of Unguja Island. Mnemba island, sometimes called Mnemba Atoll. It is about 500 meters (1,640 ft) in diameter and about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 mi) in circumference. Surrounded by an oval reef seven by four km in extent. Mnemba is a perfect spot for Snorkeling, Scuba diving & Dolphins watching. If you are looking for privacy in your vacation to Zanzibar, then this would be the best option to book your private stay.

Full Day Beach Relaxation

Zanzibar is known as the best place for a holiday in Africa. The white sand beaches, fringed with palm trees, and the deep, crystal blue ocean are known throughout the world. The island is located in the Indian Ocean about fifty kilometers from the Tanzanian mainland.

Transfer to the Zanzibar Airport for Your Home Flight Departure

Experience our top best farewell on your final day in Zanzibar. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may take time to relax on the beach, enjoy the tropical breeze, or explore the island a little more before departure. Later, our driver will transfer you to Zanzibar International Airport, ensuring you arrive comfortably and in good time for your flight home.