15 Days Tanzania Safari, Zanzibar Beach & Kilimanjaro Trek

Lemosho Gate to Forest Camp

We depart Moshi for Lemosho Gate, which takes about 4 hours, where you will complete entry formalities. Upon arrival at trailhead, we eat lunch, and then commence through undisturbed forest which winds to the first camp site which is Mti Mkubwa Camp.

Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 1 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

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 Camp

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 to Barafu Camp

After breakfast, we leave Barranco and continue on a steep ridge passing the Barranco Wall, to the Karanga Valley campsite. Then, we leave Karanga and hit the junction which connects with the Mweka Trail. We continue up to the Barafu Hut. 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 Hut

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, you will stop for a short rest and will be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise you are ever likely to see (weather permitting). From Stella Point, you may encounter snow all the way on your 1-hour ascent to the summit. At Uhuru Peak, you have reached the highest point on Mount Kilimanjaro and the continent of Africa. From the summit, we now make our descent continuing straight down to the Mweka Hut camp site, stopping at Barafu for lunch. You will want gaiters and trekking poles for the loose gravel going down. Later in the evening, we enjoy our last dinner on the mountain and a well-earned sleep.

Mweka Camp to Moshi

Elevation (ft): 10,000ft to 5,400ft 

Distance: 10 km 

Hiking Time: 3-4 hours 

Habitat: Rain Forest 

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). From the gate, you continue another hour to Mweka Village. A vehicle will meet you at Mweka village to drive you back to the hotel in Moshi at Kilimanjaro White House Hotel Meals BB.

Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Mto wa Mbu

You will depart from Arusha in the morning and drive to the Tarangire National Park where you will discover the true enormity of the deserted termite mounds and ancient baobab trees. The colossal herds of African elephants dominate the golden savannah and screeching flocks of the striking yellow-collared lovebird can be heard from miles away. The wildlife that roams the scenic landscape of the Tarangire includes lions, giraffes, warthogs, ostriches, impalas, cheetah, mongoose, buffaloes and baboons. You will spend your first night at the comprehensive camping facilities are on offer. There will be a tantalizing dinner served in the evening.

Mto wa Mbu to Serengeti National Park

We will depart for the Serengeti National Park once you have finished your appetizing breakfast. If you are lucky, you may encounter the odd animal on route because we pass via the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Tanzania's oldest and most frequented national park, that is also a world heritage site and recently branded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Serengeti is renowned for the annual migration of the herds and ever-growing wildlife population. We will enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the kopjes (rock outcropping). Our game drive will venture further into the park. After the game drive, we will proceed to the Serengeti where you will be provided with comprehensive camping facilities and an appetizing meal.

Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater

We will begin our day with an early morning game drive in the central Serengeti. The savannah is an active landscape and the air is flooded with the melodies the birds create as the regenerated sunlight starts to illuminate the full landscape. Your guide will study the prints on the ground to pursue predators. We will travel to the Comprehensive area located near the rim of the crater. You will be provided with dinner and satisfactory camping facilities.

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha Then fly to Zanzibar

After an early morning breakfast, we will hurry to Ngorongoro Crater, as it is the best time to spot animals. On this day, we will enjoy a game drive around the crater and stop for a picnic lunch at a small lake within the park. The lake is home to many hippos and migratory birds, so guests will be sure to enjoy the visit! Due to the animal “oasis” created within the crater, there is a high possibility of spotting every member of ‘The Big 5’. The group comprises some of the strongest animals in Africa – the ferocious lion, the giant elephant, the stealthy leopard, the charging rhino and the mighty water buffalo. Your trip will come to an end in the late afternoon and we will proceed back to Arusha transfer to Kilimanjaro airport fly to Zanzibar Upon arrival in Zanzibar will pick up from Zanzibar airport and transfer to Tembo house hotel BB Dinner and overnight.

Prison Island in Zanzibar

Prison Island: You will get the opportunity to visit the tortoise sanctuary, which contains a large colony of giant tortoise imported from Seychelles in the late 19th century. The average weight of these creatures is 200 kg, and many of them are said to be over 150 years old. There will be a chance to touch the tortoise and take photos. The island is also home to a cool of beautiful peacocks. After late afternoon drive back to Stone town then transfer you to Nungwi beach Smiles beach hotel Meals HB for dinner and overnight.

Mnemba Island in Zanzibar

Embark on an exciting snorkeling tour at Mnemba Atoll, one of Zanzibar’s top marine destinations. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, and if lucky, spot dolphins in the crystal-clear waters. After an unforgettable day at sea, return to Smiles Beach Hotel for a delicious dinner and a relaxing overnight stay. Enjoy the serene beach atmosphere as you unwind under the starlit sky

Departure

After breakfast at Smiles Beach Hotel, enjoy your final moments in Zanzibar before a transfer to the airport for your departure. Take with your unforgettable memories of your Tanzania adventure, from thrilling safaris and Kilimanjaro’s heights to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.